Keys to Visual Communication

Student in the modern day United States, which is loaded with many forms of media, are exposed to many different forms of communication. This includes verbal, visual, audio, and written communication.

In terms of which one yields the strongest response, I would say visual communication is the one type that really intrigues me and helps me to understand a message as clearly as possible. Unlike the other forms, the use of visual communication (i.e. graphs, maps, tables, videos, info-graphics) helps to add another dimension to the information besides just strictly written or spoken word. These visual aids can sometimes be distracting, but when used properly they can help to display and organize the necessary information in a way that helps to make analyzing it much easier. For example, I am a huge sports fan, so one way I am able to see where players rank, in terms of statistics, around the different leagues are by reading and analyzing the different info-graphics and charts that different sport-themed Twitter accounts posts. Another example is how the Buffalo Sabres Twitter account sends out a graphic breaking down their line combinations for that night's game. This is a much easier way of viewing and analyzing the lines compared to just reading it off or hearing it.

When exposed to visual communication, a necessary tool is trying to communicate a simple and concise message and also to keep the design of the graphic or aid simple, as well. People don't want to have to spend time sifting through any meaningless information. It also needs to have a strong contrast in color so that the text is legible and readable. Strong and properly designed visuals can help to grab attention, map a story, and help people better relate to your message or brand.

One person that has a good understanding of how to use visual communication, is a rapper by the name of J Cole. While searching through his website, you can see all of his videos, events, and news properly organized and easy to navigate through. He also just released a documentary series, on his life journey, that was very well put together and did a great job of delivering his message to the youth of this country. His "Dreamville" slogan is simple but holds a whole lot of meaning. He tries to show the youth, through his lyrics and actions, that just because you may have a tough upbringing doesn't mean you can't accomplish your dreams. If you want it bad enough and work hard enough, anything is possible. It also has a very simple design and has a strong color contrast that makes it easy to read.

J Cole's logo

The Buffalo Sabres organization does a strong job of visually communicating their message. This can be seen on their website, Twitter account, the graphics used in their game day programs. Their slogan "Next Chapter" is definitely appropriate because of the fact that they're now trying to take that step forward out of the "tank mode" they have been in and want to start contending.