We will use free-standing boards arranged in a horizontal format. Usable dimensions are 2.31 meters (91 inches) by 1.14 meters (44.75 inches). The bottom of the poster surface is 0.89 meters (35 inches) from the floor. Surfaces are grey in color and are well-suited for use with push-pins or tacks. Nails, glue, and carpet tape should not be used to secure materials. Because we will use both surfaces of these boards, you should not plan on hanging material over the top of the board (your rear is someone else's front).

One purpose of the poster format is to stimulate discussion among presenters and audience members. Research on this format indicates that audiences respond best to presentations that are a mix of images (drawings, graphs, charts, photos) and text. Presentations that consist primarily of printed text, especially if that text is a journal submission produced in large type and hung on the board, are generally poorly received.

Strive for visibility and legibility: it should be possible to read any printed material from a distance of ten feet. Use the design elements of color, line, shape, texture and scale to visually lead audience members through whatever sequence best fits your material. Handout materials may include an exact reproduction of your poster or a text summary of the research. These materials have become an important means of disseminating research findings in a timely manner. Handouts have been favorably received by conference participants, but they are not required.  There will be handout holders available for each poster.  Attendance over the past few years has been over 220, so please plan accordingly.

Your poster should be succinct and comprehensive to convey your message by itself, facilitating discussion with symposium participants. Be sure to identify your presentation with a title and author names. In general, "less is better." Poster session language is well-suited to enumerated or bulleted lists, short phrases, and visually explicit organization. Save the details for oral discussion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:

Karen Andriacchi kmandriacchi@wisc.edu