GVCM Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication

Name: Ariel Starling	Student Number: X00128338
ISM 4011: Introduction to Information Systems
Graphics and Visual Communication for Managers (GVCM)
Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication
DIRECTIONS: 1. Answer the questions as indicated below in the space under the question.  Answers may be found in the appropriate chapter of your GVCM textbook. 2. Change your answers to blue so they can be easily distinguished from the questions. 3. Create a new blog post and copy this information into the post. 4. Once it is pasted into your blog, select all the text (CTRL A) and change the font to TREBUCHET. 5. Change the TITLE of the post to: GVCM Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication
1. To be a powerful business writer, what are four things you should know how to do?
To be a powerful business writer, four things you should know how to do are: 1.) Design documents and electronic presentations that are quickly understood. 2.) Create graphs and tables that are easy to process and that enhance reader insight. 3.) Incorporate other visual elements such as photos, illustrations, and diagrams that visually reinforce and elucidate your words. 4.) Use typography and color to support your message rather than distract it.
2. In what ways do business readers begin processing information even before they begin reading detailed text in a document?
Business readers begin processing information from documents before they read it by looking to see how long it is, how many sections it has, how it is structured, and what the flow of information will be.
3.  From the image of two documents on page XV, explain exactly what elements in the document on top make it easier to read than the document under it on the bottom? Note: The two documents on page XV are composed of “fill text,” which is a block of filler words used to fill a page so the page can be formatted before the actual text is inserted in the document. This is often how newspapers and magazines are designed and formatted before the actual articles are submitted to the publication.
Some of the elements that make the top document easier to read than the bottom are that the top document is divided into paragraphs, has bolded titles for sections, and has an easy-to-read flow of information. The bottom document is not formatted in a way that is easy or visually appealing to read.
4.  What are at least four ways to make a graph more effective in presenting information?
To make a graph more effective in presenting information you can sort like products into groups, organize the data to provide easier comparison, provide the actual values for data, and avoid using distorting 3D effects that provide unnecessary grid and shading.
5. The textbook suggests that the graph on the bottom of page XVI is more effective than the graph above it. Do you agree with this? Why or why not?
I agree that the bottom graph is more effective because it actually gives you the values and it divides the products into two key groups. This, in my opinion, makes the information look more organized and easier to read.
6. When is it appropriate to use a table to display information?  Did you notice that the text in this document is a table?  Why is this table here?
It is appropriate to use a table when you need to show relationships between values in different categories. For this assignment, I believe that the text is in a table because it readers can easily distinguish where a question starts and finishes and where the answer should be typed. Also, putting the information in a table makes it easier for the student to type answers without altering the format of the document.
7. The textbook suggests that as a business communicator, you will be expected to create what kinds of documents on your own without technical support? Do you feel you are able to create these kinds of documents effectively at the present time? Why or why not?
The text suggests that you will be expected to create documents with multiple fonts, complex graphs and tables integrated with text, photos and diagrams in reports, and slide presentations. I feel that after taking multiple computer classes I am confident that I will be able to create these kinds of documents effectively. I have created these particular documents in the past and am confident that I will be able to perform them again.
8. According to this introductory chapter, what is the goal of the GVCM textbook?
The goal of this book is to help readers make good visual communication decisions and to use the features of software effectively to implement those decisions.
9. List and briefly describe what each chapter of the GVCM textbook is about:
·         Chapter 1: Document Design – provides an overview of basic page layout and typography and discusses how to use them effectively in business communication. ·         Chapter 2: Creating Tables and Graphs – focuses on key principles of designing graphs that effectively show the shape of data and designing tables that present clear data. ·         Chapter 3: Using Color – provides guidelines for applying color in your business graphics and presentations. ·         Chapter 4: Using Photos and Illustrations – provides advice about how to choose effective photographs, illustrations, and drawings to explain and reinforce your message. ·         Chapter 5: Integrating Graphics and Text – addresses the key conversation of how to incorporate graphics, how to label them for easy reference, and how to talk about the graphics in your text. ·         Chapter 6: Using PowerPoint – offers concrete advice on designing PowerPoint presentations that take advantage of the visual elements of the medium. ·         Chapter 7: Selecting a Graphic Designer – provides basic advice for getting professional assistance in the production of marketing documents, brochures, and other business communication materials. ·         Annotated Bibliography – includes a section of books and articles that are important for the reader who is a business manager to broader their exposure to experts in the visual communication field.
10. Describe three benefits of being a good visual communicator in the business environment:
Three benefits of being a good visual communicator in the business environment are improved communication, increased efficiency, and creating a professional image.