3 Concentrate information

The CONDENSE rule group concerns using a higher level of information density in order to represent complex facts better. It is easier to show exhibits and even entire reports are better understood when they have a high level of information density: It is simpler to analyze four charts on one page than it is to view each one of four consecutive pages. The more information displayed together, the easier it will be to comprehend complex issues – assuming that it is still possible to detect the facts clearly enough. Many PowerPoint concepts suffer when minimal information density is displayed on many pages and the overview gets lost in the process.

The most important aspects of increasing information density are explained in the following:

3.1

Use space: No free room

The fastest and easiest form of information density consists of making better use of needlessly wide margins and frames, empty or little used pages by filling them with useful data pertaining to the context. As a rule, this imparts the information in question better and faster to the recipient. Rule 3.1.1 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

3.2

Condense data: More data per area

We refer to an increased level of data density when more data (numbers, symbols, texts) is shown on the area of projection or print. Of course, this density has its limits which usually are found in the resolution of the medium used. Assuming today's standard of five or ten elements in one PowerPoint slide, then an exhibit with the intended 50 to 100 elements would have ten times the level of data density - and the presentation then only one-tenth of the number of slides. Rule 3.2.2 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

3.3

Use small elements: Better overview

If a small, but legible font and, where possible, small objects as well are used, it is easier for readers and viewers to gain an overview of what is displayed. Rule 3.3.2 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

3.4

Show interrelations: Causes and dependencies

Another form of data density concerns content-related aspects.
a Show “everything" when possible, especially extreme values and deviant values: Details increase not only the level of credibility, but comprehension as well.
b Comparisons should be shown where possible: This is the main purpose for using charts.
c Causes should be shown where possible: certain causality should be pointed out with charts whenever possible. Charts should be used to prove, explain and render something plausible, not merely serve as decoration. Rule 3.4.1 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...