Speaker Hub
We’re so glad to have you on board for this year’s conference. This page is your go-to resource for everything you need as a speaker. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back for updates as we get closer to the event!
Speaker Information & Tools
This page is your go-to resource for everything you need as a speaker—from oral presentation guidelines and format requirements to helpful tips, deadlines, and downloadable graphics to promote your session on social media.
Oral Presentations
All oral presenters must arrive at their session room at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the full session, not just your individual speaking time.
For example, if your session begins at 1:00 PM and your talk is scheduled for 1:45 PM, you are still expected to arrive by 12:45 PM.
Please bring your presentation on a USB flash drive. During the 15-minute pre-session window, you will:
- Check in with the session presider to confirm the pronunciation of your name
- Upload your presentation to the session room computer
Note: Presenters may not use personal laptops. All presentations will run from the session room computer to ensure seamless transitions and minimize technical delays.
If you experience any technical issues, visit the Technical Session Support Desk for assistance. Staff will be available to troubleshoot and ensure everything is ready to go.
Format Requirements
We strongly encourage all presenters to use the official APHON Conference PowerPoint template to ensure a cohesive and professional look across sessions.
- All presentations will run in Microsoft PowerPoint on a PC using Windows.
- Other formats (PDF, Word, Keynote, Google Slides, etc.) will not be accepted.
- Format slides in 16:9 aspect ratio.
- Do not embed video files in your slides. Videos should be saved as separate files and brought on your USB.
- Minimum font sizes:
- Body text: 24 pt
- Headings: 36 pt
- Use a sans-serif font such as Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, or Verdana.
A designated session presider will help manage transitions and timekeeping between presenters.
Design Tips
To enhance clarity and audience engagement, we recommend the following:
- Use bold text for emphasis instead of italics or underlining
- Maintain consistent formatting across all slides
- Left-align text for better readability (avoid fully justified text)
- Ensure adequate line spacing (1.5x recommended)
- Follow the “Rule of Thirds” for balanced visual layout
- Stick to one main idea per slide
- Create a visual hierarchy through font size, color, and placement
- Include slide numbers for easy reference
- Leave ample white space to reduce visual clutter
Poster Presentation Guidelines
Presenters are expected to print and bring their own posters for onsite display at the APHON Annual Conference. In addition, presenters are strongly encouraged to upload a PDF version of their poster, which will be posted online as supplemental material along with their published abstract.
Reminder: In-person presentation is required. Presenters must be onsite in Providence to be eligible for publication.
Poster Specifications
Preparation
Posters should be legible from a distance of at least five feet and must include the poster title, author names, and institutional affiliations. The content should be designed to convey your message clearly and effectively—without requiring oral explanation.
Use the following guidelines to help maximize the impact of your poster:
- Experiment with various data presentation styles to identify the clearest and most visually effective format. Focus on clarity and simplicity from the start.
- Enlarge your selected sketch to the full dimensions of the final poster. Include the full title and section headings. Represent blocks of text with horizontal lines, and sketch placeholders for graphs and tables. This step helps you visualize balance and spacing. If collaborating with a graphic designer, seek input from colleagues at this stage.
- Visual elements such as figures and tables should take up slightly more than 50% of the poster space. If you have fewer visuals, enlarge them to maintain emphasis. Keep text brief but sufficient—your poster must stand on its own without verbal explanation.
- Avoid overcrowding your layout. More information does not always translate to more effective communication. Include a 6-inch-high title strip across the top of your poster that lists the title, authors, and affiliations in letters at least 1 inch high. Also include a large, clearly printed version of your abstract for quick reference.
Poster Template Resources
APHON does not provide an official poster template. However, the following websites offer free, customizable poster templates, including the popular A0 vertical format (85 x 120 cm), which matches the dimensions of onsite display boards:
Share the Excitement on Social Media
We’re so excited to have you join us for the 2025 APHON Annual Conference & Exhibit. We’ve created some fun, shareable graphics to help you spread the word. Download the one that fits your role and let everyone know you’ll be part of APHON’s 49th Annual Conference & Exhibit. Don’t forget to tag us and use #APHON2025 on your posts!
Questions?
Contact the APHON Staff at info@aphon.org
