What is graphic recording?

Graphic recording - also called visual notetaking, graphic facilitation, live illustration, sketch notes and visual notes - is a brilliant way to capture live, real-time conversation as it unfolds. Simply, you talk, I listen and draw, and MAGIC happens. At the end, you have a synthesised visual map of the key points and highlights. A perfect way to navigate complexity, gain clarity and alignment, visually share ideas, and leverage engagement during and after an event.

The benefits of graphic recording

  • Makes Content Accessible: visuals and words together help make content more accessible, particularly for participants with English as a second language.

  • Increases Memory and Comprehension: Graphic recording creates a visual memory and narrative for attendees, and can increase retention up to 30%.

  • Supports the Facilitator: Graphic recording supports the facilitator by making ideas visible so the group can get clarity.

  • Validates Participants: The graphic recorder listens to the conversation and participants can actually see their input being captured and visualised.

  • Surprise and Delight: The graphic recorder maps and visualises content in unexpected ways that help participants see ideas from new perspectives.

  • Better Decision Making: Ideas are clarified and visible to everyone in the room.

  • Helps the Group to Maintain Focus: It’s easy for participants to get distracted. A graphic recorder helps people catch up and stay focused.

  • Communicate Key Messages: Through an engaging content laden story people, even for people who did not attend the meeting or conference.

  • An Engaging Communication Tool: By sharing the visual work afterwards you reinforce messages and keep the conversation alive.

  • Promotes Creativity: As soon as participants enter the room, they realise this is no ordinary event. The stage is set for conversation and creativity.

  • Assists Alignment with The Vision: When working with multiple stakeholders - graphic recording helps people see how they contribute to the bigger picture.

Research on graphic recording