Visual Thinking Fundamentals

Introduction

The use of illustrations applied in technical and linear environments allows information to be visualized in a global way; it helps avoid blockages to complex processes and create a positive impact on the team. Visual Thinking works because 75% of our brain is designed to process information better using images. When visual elements are applied correctly to explain something or to try to solve a problem, content is transmitted much quicker.  The power and value of visual thinking is infinite.

Visual Thinking is a methodology based on the use of simple drawings to explain complex concepts. It is applied through a series of basic visual resources such as: the drawing of people, facial expressions, arrows, text boxes, icons, banners, different uses of typography, and the application of color and shadow. The fundamental value of Visual Thinking is that drawing offers us the opportunity to represent complicated ideas by means of very simple lines.

The objective of this course is to teach participants the graphic techniques necessary for them to be able to express themselves and explain complex topics in a visually understandable manner.

Objectives

At the end of this course students will be able to:

• Interpret information from a global, non-linear point of view
• Develop their creative side to help graphically solve complex problems
• Express themselves and explain complex concepts in a visually understandable way
• Create graphic material for presentations, proposals, reports, etc.
• Actively practice the skills, tools, and techniques learned

Student Profile

This course is designed for all kinds of people, especially those who work in complex environments and can use graphic tools to play a crucial role in transmitting concepts, aligning goals, and understanding complexity.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to attend this course.

Course Materials

Each student will receive a copy of the course documentation prepared by Netmind.

Methodology

Engaging and interactive face-to-face course. Our instructors teach all course materials using the demonstrative method; the participants learn new concepts through exercises and real application practices.

Certification

There isn’t an official certification associated with this course. However, students will earn 7 credit hours for their attendance.

Accreditation

A certificate of attendance will be issued to students who attend the course for at least 75% of the duration.

Course Outline

1. Introduction Visual Thinking
   1. What is Visual Thinking?
   2. What is it for?
   3. Context: origin and today
2. Visual Thinking Creation and Transformation Process
   1. Watch
   2. Look
   3. Imagine
   4. Teach
3. Draw: Communicate vs. Create Works of Art
   1. Lose the fear of drawing
   2. Visual alphabet
   3. Geometric drawing
4. How to Draw
   1. Frontal or Egyptian perspective
5. Visual Toolkit
   1. Faces and expressions
   2. People
   3. Movement
   4. Text boxes
   5. Banners
   6. Arrows
   7. Bullets
   8. Icons
   9. Color and Shadows
   10. Hand lettering
   11. How to cover up mistakes
6. How do we use Visual Facilitation?
   1. For whom?
   2. Spatial representation – Tools
      1. Structure
      2. Mind map
      3. Conceptual Map
      4. Bubble Map
      5. Infographics
      6. Graphic facilitation vs. graphic recording
   3. Temporary representation
      1. Journey Map
      2. Storytelling
7. Bibliography, resources, websites