Don’t forget your proposal graphics! They can be, and usually are, important elements of persuasion. But too many grant proposals have poor graphics, too few graphics, or none at all.
Graphics are Important
Graphics are far more than entertaining diversions. We know, from considerable research on the subject, that good proposal graphics (appropriately integrated with the text) can help reviewers more easily understand what you are proposing.
The cliché, that a picture says a thousand words, is correct … for visual AND non-visual learners.
As Mike Parkinson and Colleen Jolly (of the 24 Hour Company) have pointed out, your graphics must be interesting enough to hold your reviewers’ attention and yet must be clear and simple enough to communicate your major points.
According to various studies, good graphics:
• Take 40 percent less time than text to explain complex ideas.
• Improve retention 38 percent.
• Communicate up to 60,000 times faster than text alone.
• Improve learning 200 percent.
Kinds of Graphics to use to help convey your major points:
Bridge graphics are pictures of a metaphor that depicts the connection between actions, concepts, or entities. It can be used to show transitions, operational flow, and systems integration.
Chain graphics depict linked sections, concepts, or entities by literally using chains to show the connection between different organizations or activities.
Conveyor belt graphics are pictures of a repeatable linear process. It effectively shows forward movement as a series of steps.
Dashboard graphics present multiple metrics in one consolidated picture. It presents a holistic view of related information.
To give you an idea … two commonly used graphics are the Light Bulb, for innovation, and the Lock, for security.
For Further Help, these web sites and books have many ideas for good proposal graphics:
www.BizGraphicsOnDemand.com
www.images.google.com
www.visual-literacy.org
Edward R. Tufte, The Visual Display of Quantitative Information (2001)
Edward R. Tufte, Visual Explanations (1998)
Edward R. Tufte, Envisioning Information (1990)
Michael T. Parkinson, Billion Dollar Graphics: 40 Powerful Ways to Show your Ideas (2006)
Good visuals help reviewers picture your text and good pictures promote improved comprehension and persuasion. Devise good icons, symbols, and pictures for your win themes and you will help reviewers better understand, and more easily accept, the essence of your grant proposal.
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Dr. Jayme Sokolow, founder and president of The Development Source, Inc.,
helps nonprofit organizations develop successful proposals to government agencies.
Contact Jayme Sokolow.
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Have you seen The Fundraising Series of ebooks ??
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Hank Lewis with Development Consultant Associates has over thirty years as a fundraising consultant and is a specialist in Board and Leadership Development, Capital Campaign, Bequest Program and Major Gifts.