Any event can benefit from live graphic recording. But the more you integrate your visual note-taker, or scribe, into your agenda, the greater those benefits will be.
After taking visual notes at hundreds of events, I observed that, generally, there are three levels to “scribemaxxing”.
Basic
- The scribe quietly captures presentations and panel discussions throughout the day, with little involvement beyond documenting what’s said.
- The finished boards may be informally displayed but aren’t showcased.
- Attendees may or may not interact with the work on their own.
Intermediate
- Facilitators introduce the scribe and explain to participants what they’ll be doing.
- Finished boards are formally displayed in public spaces, and participants are encouraged to interact with them.
- During the wrap-up, facilitators lead a gallery walk, using the visual notes to reinforce key takeaways and spark reflection.
- After the event, polished digital images of the work are shared with attendees and posted on social media.
Max
- Everything described in the previous section.
- Along with documenting presentations, the scribe participates in interactive exercises and captures unstructured conversations, making visualization an active part of the group process.
- In addition to being shared with attendees and featured on websites and brochures, the finished images are also turned into merchandise, and, with Breakthrough Visuals’ assistance, used to create more finished infographics and animated explainer videos.
Of course, not all events call for the maximum level of scribing. But at any level, visual
note-taking will transform your event in unexpected and amazing ways.
If you’d like more tips for getting the most out of graphic recording, check out this free PDF.
And if you’d like to explore how visual note-taking could elevate your next event, schedule a free call, and let’s discuss the possibilities!