What is Graphic Recording?

Capturing your gathering

Simply put, graphic recording is the live capture of ideas in a visual way. A graphic recorder works in real-time in conjunction with day hosts, but doesn't take an active facilitation role themselves. Graphic recording is also referred to as live illustration, graphic harvesting, scribing, sketchnoting or visual note-taking. It can be done in-person on paper or boards and it can also be done digitally, in-person or remotely. You can see examples of these options below and on our individual profile pages.

Instant Images
Graphic recording captures ideas and expressions as they are being spoken. This can be part of conferences, trainings, design sprints or any gathering of people. A graphic recorder will illustrate your ideas in real-time at your event, making your ideas engaging, shareable and actionable - instantly. 

In a World of Information Overload
Meetings and conferences are often packed with great ideas and insights which are lost when people leave the room. These ideas are often complex, with many interrelating parts. Having a displayable visual overview of all ideas aids reflection and processing of information. By finding patterns or visualising imagined scenarios, graphic recording aids in building new perceptions and alternatives and creating a shared vision. 

Inclusion
Sometimes stakeholders come from very different worlds and everyday language can be a block to empathy building or understanding. Engagement processes are often enhanced with visual and unusual means of recording thoughts. Graphic recording helps people to feel heard, because they can literally see their voice represented on the wall.