On-site trainings for medical affairs are an excellent approach to educating both new and experienced employees. These trainings should facilitate the exchange of knowledge with open, in-depth discussions.
The focal point for these trainings is often a PowerPoint presentation which in the best cases effectively disseminates foundational background information necessary for productive conversations. However, these presentations are often filled with impenetrable tables, charts, and text that drown out key messages and perplex participants.
By arranging scientific data into a coherent and compelling narrative, visual storytelling can help to maximize the outcome of on-site trainings.
Visual storytelling clearly communicates the key message of your data
The following video demonstrates how a static graph with no discernable key message can be transformed into an appealing visual without oversimplifying the content.
It’s not about making the content simple—it’s about making the content accessible to your audience and engaging their imagination and critical faculties. Both the original chart and the animated visual have the same key message: drug A, compared to three other drugs, is the only one that can overcome all 17 mutations tested to inactivate the target protein. In the original diagram, this information is hidden behind grey columns filled with data and a bar chart where the message can only be deciphered after carefully inspecting each data set for all 17 of the mutations tested. The mutations are represented by combinations of numbers and letters and the binding ability of the drugs is represented by bars extending up or down from the x-axis.
This all requires the audience to examine and interpret the visuals without sufficient time. In effect, the presenter would likely give the audience the message without the visual actually offering any support. This is a good way to discourage critical thinking and fruitful discussions.
The animated image, in contrast, provides visual anchors for the data. The mutations are indicated by stars marking specific locations on the target protein structure. The bars have been transformed into dynamic, animated molecules of the investigated treatments. The animated visual does not only make the data easier to understand; it also adds information by showing the simplified structure of the target protein and by showing that most of the mutations occur near the binding pocket of the protein.
A visual story can guide your audience through even the thickest data
In contrast to the static chart, which delivers all of the information simultaneously, the animated visual presents the data sequentially. The data is thus given a narrative structure:
- Beginning: inciting incident—acquired mutations can lead to drug resistance.
- Middle: conflict—a promising treatment is tested against 17 of these mutations.
- End: resolution—the treatment overcomes these mutations.
In this way, the visual storytelling approach guides the audience’s focus through the relevant details step by step.
Visual storytelling can maximize the outcome of on-site trainings
Visual storytelling can strengthen the impact of scientific presentations. By rendering scientific data into a more approachable and memorable form and reducing information overload, a visual storytelling approach can help you get the most out of your PowerPoint presentations for on-site trainings.
Do you have any questions? Please do not hesitate to contact us. Email us or arrange a WebEx.
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