What do you do if your GIS presentations aren't engaging diverse audiences?

1 Know Your Audience

Understanding who your audience is forms the basis of an engaging GIS presentation. Tailor your content to their interests, expertise, and expectations. If they are not GIS experts, avoid jargon and focus on the implications of the data rather than the technicalities. For a diverse group, find common ground that relates to all attendees and use it as a starting point to guide your narrative. Remember, a presentation that resonates with your audience's needs and interests is more likely to keep them engaged.

3 Interactive Elements

Incorporating interactive elements into your GIS presentation can significantly boost engagement. Allow your audience to explore the data themselves through interactive maps or live demonstrations. This hands-on approach helps to maintain interest and encourages a deeper understanding of the content. By giving control to the audience, even momentarily, you create a more immersive and memorable experience.

5 Visual Appeal

The visual aspect of your GIS presentation is crucial. Ensure your maps and graphics are not only informative but also aesthetically pleasing. Use color schemes and designs that enhance readability and draw attention to the most important parts of your data. Well-designed visuals can make a significant difference in how your audience perceives and remembers your presentation.

6 Feedback Loop

Finally, establish a feedback loop for continuous improvement of your GIS presentations. Encourage your audience to provide feedback on what worked and what didn't. This will help you understand the perspectives of diverse audience members and refine your approach for future presentations. Active listening and adapting based on feedback is key to creating GIS presentations that consistently engage a wide range of viewers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?