Guidelines for Poster Presentations

Historically, the poster exhibition and reception has been the most well-attended session at the conference! The following guidelines are provided to assist in your poster preparations. We ask that all poster presenters follow these guidelines and invite any questions that you may have.

Setup: Poster presentations are held in the Centennial Ballroom on Wednesday Evening, November 5, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm during that evening’s reception. You may set up your poster any time between 4:30 pm and 6:15 pm that day. Go to the Centennial Ballroom section F and volunteers will be there to assist you.

 

NEW! Size and Shape: At Evaluation 2008, all posters are displayed on a floor standing fabric-covered bulletin board with 2 presentations per side. The poster presentation boards are 8 feet WIDE by 4 feet HIGH and, allowing for the frame, each presenter will have 44" x 44" for his or her display.

What to Bring: You should bring the printed content (more information below), but you DO NOT need to bring the poster board itself or pins for attaching your poster components. AEA will supply the poster board and plenty of pins. We strongly recommend that you bring a one-page handout about your work to distribute to those interested in what you are doing and to provide an email for contacting you to learn more and/or receive the full presentation content. It should include your contact information (including email) so that your colleagues may follow-up after the conference if needed. Please bring at least 50 copies.

Insider tip: If you have business cards, this is a great opportunity to distribute them as well.

Composition: Poster presentations should be visually appealing. Your poster should be:

• Readable from at least six feet away and the smallest type should be approximately 18 pt with headings in 36 point or larger. Do not post pages of a written paper (make them available for distribution), instead focus on the key elements. Don't forget to include a title as well as the names and affiliations of authors.

Insider Tip: Not sure if your elements are readable? Pin one to a wall and back away three strides. Can you read the headlines and subheaders enough to be drawn in to read more?

• Understandable, focusing on the 'big picture' points and with a minimum of jargon. Past evaluations have clearly indicated that one frustration, in particular for new and international attendees, is the use of 'insider' language, acronyms, and abbreviations that make it difficult to readily comprehend a presentation.
• Logically organized into sections with text and graphics that flow from one part to the next. One way to maintain organization is through the use of color, thus using the same color backing behind items in each section.

Insider tip: An easy way to organize the poster is to print your pages on white paper and then use blank colored sheets offset by approximately 1" behind them to form angled frames.

• To the point with elements that highlight your work. You have a brief period of time to catch attendees' attention as they stroll past. It is better to emphasize the most important components of your work in a clear and visually appealing way than to make a cluttered presentation. Those who share your interests will stop and learn more from you directly or from your handouts.
• Colorful with colored graphics and colored backing. However, be careful about the use of colored text. Text can be very difficult to read unless printed with dark colored ink.

What to Expect During the Exhibition: During the exhibition, you should remain at your poster, ready to discuss your work. Individual attendees browse among the posters throughout the event and chat with those presenting work of interest to them. If you get caught up in conversation with someone, try to be aware of, and welcome, others who may approach your poster and have questions about your work.

Insider tip: Some people are more shy than others and may walk by and just pick up your handouts or card. A friendly "Welcome" or "Please don't hesitate to ask any questions" on your part can serve as a great icebreaker.

Computers: You may not use a computer as part of your display. There is not flat space and no electricity - all posters are on standing boards.

Poster Competition: There will be a prize for the best poster presentations. A panel of judges will review posters based on content AND presentation. Winners will receive $50, a ticket to the Friday awards luncheon, plus a small surprise!

Questions: If you have any questions about presenting a poster at Evaluation 2007, please do not hesitate to contact Susan Kistler in the AEA office at susan@eval.org or 888-232-2275 or 508-748-3326.