Importance of Visual Communication

1. Importance of Visual Communication Visual communication is one of the most important ways of communicating and sharing information with people. Visual communication is a way people can easily understand things. Let it be signs, typography, movies, graphic designs and many more. The ability to interpret, negotiate and explain the meaning of still and moving image texts is referred to as visual literacy. In other words, it is capable of identifying and understanding the ideas communicated by visible images or actions. Visuals effectively play an important role in retaining information. The reason for this is that the images are deposited directly and remain in mind for a long time. On the other hand, words remain in our mind only for a short time. Certainly, retention of information is the ultimate goal of any content. Visual communication is one of the three main types of communication, defined as the transmission of information and ideas using symbols and images, while the others two are verbal (speaking) and non- verbal (tone, body language, etc.) communication. 

3. Features of Visual Communication  The advantages, we get from visual mode of communication comes from the number of feasible characteristics of visual communication. 1. Immediate: Visual images create an immediate effect upon viewers. Studies show that the human brain can decode images almost as soon as possible, while language is decoded in a sequential way, taking longer time to process. This immediacy makes visual communications easy to access and understand.  2. Memorable: Images can proceed directly into our memory and remain there for long-term, while words are generally processed by our short-term memory. Thus, visual messages are more helpful to use it for longer time.  3. Persuasive: Applying visual images while communicating through presentations is more effective to bring positive feedback from the target audience. Study on visual aids reports that use of graphics in presentations are 43% more effective in persuading audience in taking a desirable course of action.  4. Evocative: Visuals are capable of affecting us emotionally. Right colour, right graphics, and other visually enhancing tools make information more clear and easy to understand. This can in turn generate stronger responses from audience.

4. 5. Credible: Most of people think “seeing is believing”. People hardly believes words of mouth, if they see believable images, they perceive it more quickly. Thus, credibility of the information is enhanced.  6. Powerful: Visual communication affects us both cognitively and emotionally. Graphics can accelerate and increase our understanding, recollection and retention. Pictures can improve or affect our emotions, attitudes and imagination. How Visual Communication Enhances Learning? • Using visual presentations in communication makes learning easier- • A call for a variety of senses.  • A focus of attention.  • A change of pace.  • A more vibrant and lasting impression.  • A simplified explanation for understanding.  • A consolidation of learning.  • Reference material for later use.

5. Key Points 1. Immediate: Visual images create an immediate effect upon viewers. Studies show that the human brain can decode images almost as soon as possible, while language is decoded in a sequential way, taking longer time to process. This immediacy makes visual communications easy to access and understand.  2. Memorable: Images can proceed directly into our memory and remain there for long-term, while words are generally processed by our short-term memory. Thus, visual messages are more helpful to use it for longer time.  3. Persuasive: Applying visual images while communicating through presentations is more effective to bring positive feedback from the target audience. Study on visual aids reports that use of graphics in presentations are 43% more effective in persuading audience in taking a desirable course of action.  4. Evocative: Visuals are capable of affecting us emotionally. Right colour, right graphics, and other visually enhancing tools make information more clear and easy to understand. This can in turn generate stronger responses from audience. 

6. 5. Credible: Most of people think “seeing is believing”. People hardly believes words of mouth, if they see believable images, they perceive it more quickly. Thus, credibility of the information is enhanced.  6. Powerful: Visual communication affects us both cognitively and emotionally. Graphics can accelerate and increase our understanding, recollection and retention. Pictures can improve or affect our emotions, attitudes and imagination. Published by Brainware University