Unlocking Positive Influence: Ways Professional Graphics Elevate Proposals

There is substantial evidence supporting the positive influence of graphic use in proposal submissions. Research strongly suggests visuals enhance reviewer comprehension, retention, and overall understanding of content, all of which influence identifying a winning bidder.

Once a proposal is submitted, it will be read and scored in the company of multiple offers with a myriad of solutions responding to the same requirements. Sorting out the best response requires parsing out differentiators, likelihood of applied success, not to mention its exhausting for the reader scanning a multitude of volumes.

Make Submission Memorable, Make a Positive Impression, and Convey Clearly

As a rule, keep it simple, answer the question, and don’t confuse the reader.

This is where graphics are particularly useful. The narrative describes WHAT the bidder will do, whereas graphics illustrate HOW. This is done across time (steps), as a value (or benefit), in relationship to other elements, or simply as a mapping. Graphics are the action manifestations of Will, How, Then, With, Results In. 

Polished graphics can make it easier for reviewers to grasp patterns and relationships within the data. Moreover, cohesive and attractive visuals can increase the overall appeal of the content, capturing and retaining the reader's attention to focus on key points of value where you meet or exceed requirements. If you have participated in a review, you likely have experienced passing text to scan graphics and figure titles. This shortcut is an advantage when you have thoughtfully managed your graphic development and figure title summaries. And least considered are 508 alt text descriptions, a powerful comprehension tool when developed with care.

Investing in the process of developing and tailoring graphics brings clear advantage to your bid. At a macro level, the exercise of creating the content and flow benefits the narrative throughout.