Posters are an important way to present research studies and research utilization projects. Many conferences offer poster sessions as a convenient way for novices and veteran researchers to display and discuss their data in an informal manner. It is also a great way for conference attendees to learn about a number of topics in a short period of time.
Posters offer an alternative to oral or podium presentation, and present data concisely and in a visual format. Posters allow the nurse investigator to present studies and solicit feedback for research still in progress and poster sessions encourage informal discussions with researchers from many backgrounds. Furthermore, while the majority of conferences request research posters, research utilization posters can be developed for a few select poster sessions or conferences.
Several steps must be taken before the poster session. The nurse investigator must first decide if a study can be presented effectively in a poster format and decide which conference to display the poster. An abstract is usually submitted and accepted to the conference or poster session in question. Subsequently, the researcher must develop the content. Many conferences will supply guidelines for developing posters based on conference objectives as well as logistics for poster displays. Next, the investigator must design the poster based on resources for graphic assistance and printing. Professional graphic artists are available to create eye-catching posters with a professional appearance, but may not work within the budget available for production. Many investigators choose to develop their own posters using a wide variety of software and software programs available commercially. Finally, the investigator must travel with the poster and set-up the poster at the session. The conference promoters will inform you how your poster may be displayed (i.e. tacks, easel, Velcro, etc.).
At the poster session, remember that you know more about your poster content than anyone in the room. Relax, enjoy, and share your important work!
HOW TO MAKE AN EFFECTIVE POSTER
Posters are a method to communicate the results of research or to describe an issue that allows for interaction and discussion.
WHY
Define the purpose of the poster.
Research posters explain the purpose, sample, results and implications of a study.
Descriptive posters explain a procedure or describe a unit and this may contain more pictures and charts.
The challenge is to reduce a large amount of data or information to an appropriate amount for a poster in order to communicate information to a reader!
Questions that you need answered before you begin a poster are:
1. Are there size limitations for display?
2. Are there format restrictions?
3. Can you use audiovisuals?
4. Is the poster free standing or attached to a board?
5. Will your abstract be included in conference proceedings?
WHO
Define the poster audience.
A scientific community allows the use of research-related terminology, though you may need to define words that are unfamiliar.
A lay public community requires you to limit the detail and requires plain and simple language.
WHAT
Define your message.
Determine the specific necessary information/visual display needed to explain your message. Put information in bullet format, chart or picture.
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Title and authors across the top
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Introduction/Background
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Purpose
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Methods/Sample
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Results – think about graphics
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Conclusion/Implications
Factors that affect readability
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Number of words – limit to 7 lines per section.
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Use a typeface that is simple, for example Times New Roman.
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The size of type should be readable from 3-4 feet away.
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Use black lettering on white background.
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Set information on poster to move reader from upper left to lower right.
WHERE
Define the Data.
Do not make your audience work to understand your message. Less equals more.
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Put the data in a format that is simple and easy to understand.
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Use graphs with minimal grid lines and minimize use of legends.
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Pictures can tell the story.
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Use bullet points with as few words as possible.
Be prepared to spend at least 10 hours on development and another 2 hours on editing for a successful poster.
(Moore, et al. 2001; Lippman & Ponton, 1989; Kennedy, 2004)
