Semiotic optimization of visual communication in telecommuting presentations design

Abstract

Background: Telecommuting relies heavily on digital presentations, but poor engagement reduces productivity. In Kenya’s BETA Agenda, one of the five thematic areas of focus is “Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy”. In this sector, BETA aims to expand digital infrastructure, promote e-commerce and harness the creative potential of Kenyan youth. Telecommuting plays a key role in the achievement of these goals. Problem: Telecommuting and working from home have become common among Kenyan professionals. Digital presentations are key drivers of this remote work. Poor engagement during digital presentations reduces the efficacy of telecommuting, resulting in wasted time and a drop in productivity. Objective: This study tests whether semiotics (pragmatic signs/symbols) improve engagement in telecommuting presentations. Design: Descriptive methods were used in this cross-sectional qualitative study, where the researchers adopted a relativism philosophy. The secondary research encompassed thematic literature reviews of the fields of study, which are telecommuting and semiotics. Setting: The study was carried out among graduate professionals telecommuting in Nairobi, Kenya. Subjects: The subjects of this study were adult males and females. Results: The research objective was to determine whether semiotics improved engagement of participants during digital presentations. 49.9% of key informants interviewed reported that introducing semiotics to digital presentations had an effect on their engagement. A further 42.9% reported that the semiotics stood out the most as a feature in the digital presentation. Conclusion: Africa continues to integrate into the digital global economy, telecommuting presents a future of promise where work is accessible, inclusive and without borders. With the continent endeavouring to navigate the complexities of a digital world, purposeful telecommuting remains a key driver of change. It offers a glimpse into a future where Africa’s workforce is empowered, connected and thriving in the global digital arena.