Characteristics, strengths & weaknesses - Exhibitions, displays & models
Minimal text, large interesting graphics and some form of interactive activity are the key components of a good display. Displays can be simple, inviting and easy to erect; technologically extravagant requiring expert design and construction; or somewhere in between. Your budget and target group will determine the type of display you produce. Displays are often a feature of events designed for the general public and this creates problems in targeting your audience or learning group. Targeted events, such as trade shows and ethnic community days, are more useful in ensuring your display is reaching your target group. If you staff your own displays, your audience can question, discuss and clarify with you the content in your exhibition. Models can add extra interest to a display and are a useful method of representing—in smaller scale and three-dimensional form—your key message.
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Strengths
- provide general information
- can interest and reach people who may not be members of organised groups or have a special interest in the topic
- can be useful in making an issue more salient to a community
- have the further advantage that, if they are part of an organised exhibition or event, much of the publicity and logistics may be organised for you.
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Weaknesses
- can be expensive and resource-intensive to prepare
- require publicity to attract participants
- are often for the general public, so it can be difficult to know if people who visit an exhibition or display represent your target group
- are difficult to evaluate in terms of their effectiveness.
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Page last updated: 27 February 2011
