How do you share CFD results with non-technical professionals?

1 Know your audience

The first step is to understand who you are talking to and what they need to know. Different audiences may have different levels of familiarity with CFD, different goals and expectations, and different preferences for how to receive information. For example, a manager may want to see the big picture and the impact on the project, while a client may want to see the details and the validation of the results. You should tailor your message and your medium to suit your audience and their needs.

2 Simplify your language

The second step is to avoid using jargon, acronyms, and technical terms that may confuse or alienate your audience. Instead, use simple and plain language that anyone can understand. Explain the concepts and the methods behind your CFD analysis in a way that relates to the real-world problem or scenario. For example, instead of saying "we used a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes solver with a k-epsilon turbulence model", you could say "we used a computer program that simulates how the air flows around the object with a method that accounts for the effects of turbulence".

3 Visualize your data

The third step is to use graphics, charts, and animations to show your CFD results in an engaging and informative way. Visuals can help your audience grasp the main findings, compare the scenarios, and see the trends and patterns. You should choose the appropriate type and format of visual for your data and your message. For example, you could use a contour plot to show the pressure distribution, a vector plot to show the velocity direction, or a streamline plot to show the flow path. You should also use colors, labels, and legends to make your visuals clear and easy to read.

4 Highlight your insights

The fourth step is to interpret your CFD results and explain what they mean for your audience. You should highlight the key insights, the implications, and the recommendations that come from your CFD analysis. You should also provide evidence and reasoning to support your claims and address any questions or objections that may arise. For example, you could say "our CFD results show that the new wing design reduces the drag by 10%, which means that the aircraft can fly faster and more efficiently. This is because the new wing shape reduces the separation of the flow and the wake behind the wing".

6 Ask for feedback

The final step is to invite your audience to give you feedback on your CFD results and your presentation. You should listen to their comments, questions, and suggestions and respond to them in a respectful and constructive way. You should also be open to learning from their perspectives and experiences and to improving your CFD skills and communication. For example, you could say "thank you for your attention and your interest in our CFD results. Do you have any questions or feedback for us? We would love to hear from you and to discuss how we can work together on this project".