Digital Scholarship Centre

Karina Adcock shows a simple 8 step process for making an academic poster for a conference in PowerPoint.

Note: Since making this video she has discovered that in step 8 if you use 'print to pdf' depending on what your printer settings are it could change the size of your poster.

• There are a couple of ways to save the poster as a pdf.
• Go to File - Save As - then change the file type to pdf and save it.
• Or go to File - Export - then create pdf.

There are several AI-powered tools available for creating infographics. 

• Canva offers some AI features and a range of templates for creating infographics. They recently added their Magic Design feature, a free AI design tool.
• Visme provides a platform for creating various visual content, including infographics. It offers customisable templates and drag-and-drop functionality. 
• Piktochart is another AI-powered infographic maker.
• Infogram helps you create interactive infographics, reports and maps with AI.
• Venngage specialises in creating infographics.

These tools do not fully automate the infographic design process, but they often incorporate AI features to assist with design suggestions, layout optimisation, and data visualisation. When using these tools, remember to incorporate UFS branding elements, such as fonts and colours.

Use AI to assist you with the full design process by using generative AI tools like ChatGPT or Copilot. By crafting prompts to tell the tool what you need, it can help you generate ideas, organise content, and refine your narrative. Here are some prompt and answer examples from ChatGPT for various aspects in the design process. Remember, the more specific your prompt, the more detailed the response. If you are not satisfied with the answer, rephrase your question or provide more detail.

• Idea generation: I am creating an infographic on the benefits of a digital library. What key points shall I include?

Here are some key points you can include:
- Access to a vast range of resources
- 24/7 availability
- Cost-effectiveness
- Environmentally friendly
- Supports remote learning

• Research and data collection: What are some statistics about the growth of digital libraries?

Some statistics you might consider:
- The global digital library market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028.
- Over 90% of academic libraries offer digital collections.
- User satisfaction rates for digital libraries are around 85%.

• Content structuring: How should I structure my infographic on digital libraries?

Here is a possible structure:
1. Introduction
2. Key benefits
- Accessibility
- Cost savings
- Environmental impact
3. Growth statistics
4. User testimonials
5. Conclusion

• Text and descriptions: Write a brief description for the 'Accessibility' section.

Digital libraries provide round-the-clock access to a vast array of resources from anywhere in the world. This convenience makes it easier for users to find and utilise information without constraints of physical library hours.

• Design suggestions: What colour scheme should I use for my digital library infographic?

Consider using a combination of blue and green for a calming and professional look. Blue symbolises trust and knowledge, while green represents growth and sustainability. Use white or light grey for backgrounds to ensure readability.

• Feedback and refinement: Here is a draft of my infographic. What can I improve?

Your infographic looks great! Here are a few suggestions:
- Add icons or images to make key points more visually appealing.
- Ensure consistent font sizes and styles throughout.
- Include a call-to-action at the end, encouraging viewers to explore your digital library.

• Title and headings: Suggest a catchy title for my infographic about digital libraries.

How about "Unlocking Knowledge: The Power of Digital Libraries?"

For more information on Open Educational Resources (OERs), visit our OER guide.