Displays and exhibitions
Displays and exhibitions provide information to people in a public space, and may also be opportunities for people to share their views.
Resources needed
- Time to do: Depending on length of event. Consider time for set-up and dismantling, which usually must be before/after the event. Breaks and lunchtime may be key times when you must be at the stand.
- Staff: usually 2 is recommended
- Cost: £/££
- Equipment: Display, table cloth (optional) and materials for people to share their views.
Suitable for
- one-to-one
- small groups
- large groups
- face-to-face
How to do it
- Be clear about the aim of your display or exhibition
- Be clear about who your audience is
- Consider suitable venues to engage with your target audience
- Be clear about whether people have an opportunity to contribute their views
- Create an interesting-looking stand to draw people towards it
- Focus on turning curiosity into conversation
- Use plain language and avoid jargon
- Test out your information with members of the public
- Have contact details available for those who want to find out more
Advantages
- Opportunities to be creative and engaging. For example, you could ask people a big question and have them indicate their answer by putting a ball in a marked basket.
- Simple information may support you to engage with disadvantaged groups
Challenges
- Display materials can be expensive. Their value for money will depend on how many people you reach.
- Responses received will not be representative of all views.
- One event may not be enough to reach your target audience. You may need to plan a series of displays or exhibitions at different times and in different locations.
More information
- Speak to your communications team about the best way(s) to promote your work.