Poster Design Tips

Download a Sample Project Poster Template (Powerpoint Format, 36" X 48" poster size)

Layout

Posters must be created in MS PowerPoint.

Change the size of your slide so that it matches your poster size. Remember, "SIZE before DESIGN".
Download sample poster templates as a starting point. These can be found in the upper right corner of this page.
Periodically change the zoom of your slide to 100% (lower left corner in PowerPoint2007) so that you can view your fonts and pictures as they will be seen in poster size.

If your poster contains any graphics, they should be scanned in at a resolution of at least 200dpi. Images of lower resolution or which have been resized will look grainy when printed. Graphics embedded in PowerPoint look best from JPG and EMF files.
Photos are usually better than clip art, but remember to use copyright-free photos. It's best if you take them yourself.
If using the WPI Logo, please be sure it is an official logo with the correct dpi.

Use a white background. There will be an additional charge for posters with colored backgrounds.
The color scheme and layout of your poster should be simple and effective.

Font sizes should be large enough to be read from a distance.
The colors in the final print may be slightly different than what you see on the screen or any samples you print yourself. An exact match may be difficult to obtain and will take extra time.
If you are using any uncommon fonts, be sure to embed them. You can do this from the Tools Menu in PowerPoint, under Options > Save. Alternatively, you can save them as an image.
Use sans serif fonts for small print.

The ATC will not be responsible for errors such as poorly scanned images, spelling mistakes, or difficulties with resizing.

Maintained by itweb@wpi.edu
Last modified: Mar 31, 2009, 08:00 EDT