Seeing makes the most sense. Studies show that sight is the most used human sense. A whopping
75% of all environmental stimuli is received through visual reception (Doug Malouf). So, the
best presenters use visuals to maximize the impact of their presentation!
Environmental Stimuli Reception
Visuals are the best way to teach your audience. According to a recent University of California
at Los Angeles study, 55% percent of what an audience learns comes directly from the visual
messages seen during a presentation — compared to 38% from audio messages. By combining audio
and visual presentation messages, presenters can ensure their objectives are met.
Impact of Communication
Visuals increase the retention of messages. A Wharton Research Center study has shown that
the retention rate of verbal only presentations is approximately 10%. However, when you combine
visual messages with verbal communication, you increase the retention rate to nearly 50%. A 400%
increase! Why not use visual aids to help you audience remember your message?
Message Retention
Visuals help you meet your audience objectives. When presenters use visual aids in their
presentations, they are twice as likely (67% vs. 33%) to achieve their audience objectives,
than speakers who don't use visual aids. (Decker Communications). By incorporating effective
visuals in your presentation, you increase your ability to communicate your message to your
audience.
Achieving Objectives
Reduce the length of your meeting. A recent study from the University of Minnesota found
that the average length of meetings in which visuals were used were 26.8% shorter (26.7 minutes
vs. 18.6 minutes) than meetings in which no visuals were used. With executive salaries at
several hundred dollars an hour, visuals can save corporate executives a lot of time and
money!