Responding to Types of Communication

There are 4 types of communication. The type of communication that I respond best to would be verbal. I respond best to verbal communication because you are talking directly to the source. You are able to ask for clarification and details and not have to guess as to what things may or may not mean. For example, in visual communication you only see what the business producing the image wants you to see. In movie trailers certain clips may be included that might not even be in the film. However, you would not know this unless you spend the money to see the movie.

Visual Communication, despite some of its deceiving tactics, is a necessary tool in everyday life. Visual communication is one of the most universal and ancient types of communication. The Ancient Egyptians used hieroglyphics to keep record of their history, and through today’s understanding of certain symbols, historians were able to translate them. Visual Communication can also help the stranded traveler. While verbal communication may be limited due to language barriers, maps and road symbols are almost universal, or at least easily identifiable.

Perhaps one of the biggest brands in the world with strong visual communication is Apple. The companies logo, like the name, is an apple. An apple is a universally recognized symbol which makes it easy for people from all over to comprehend. This also eliminates confusion and makes it easy for the consumer to remember. The consumer sees the apple on the back of someones phone or laptop and will immediately know that it’s an Apple product.

The Olympic Rings symbol is another classic example of visual communication. This, like Apple, is a universally recognized logo, being that almost every country in the world participates in the olympics. The rings themselves represent the continents, the Americas are considered as one continent. However, the overall feel that the logo produces is one of unity and celebration of our countries. It incites pride in one’s country and can mean something different to everyone. To some it might be hope that one day they will be an olympian. This is especially important because it makes a dream attainable and real and gives someone something to strive for.

The Presidential Seal, another visual communicator, is the official symbol of the President of the United States. This seal is a representation of many things. If you look at the seal through an un-politicized lense, the seal stands as a symbol of Freedom and Liberty. Some may say this is still true with our current President in mind. Some might say that under President Trump the seal now symbolizes hatred and bigotry. This symbol is unique in the fact that it’s meaning can change over time and from person to person through each passing President.

Communication is local and it is also universal. It is interesting to look at such types of communication that are universal and how a road sign can help people understand each other without using words.