Disadvantages / Limitations of Visual communication:
Although visual communication enjoys numerous advantages, it suffers from limitations. Its major limitations are as follows.
Ambiguity: Though visual presentation of information seems to be understandable to the receivers, it may be ambiguous in some cases. For example; in order to understand the meaning of message from charts, diagrams or graphs, the reader must have knowledge on those visual aids. Otherwise, they will not be able to understand the meaning of the message presented in those visual aids.
Additional cost: Generally, visual aids are used-in combination with written or oral communication for enhancing the attractiveness and effectiveness of message. This use of visual aids along with verbal methods incurs additional costs.
Application of specialized knowledge: Visual presentation of information requires use of charts, diagrams, graphs, tables etc. In designing and drawing these aids, specialized knowledge is required.
Labor and time consuming: Visual presentation of information also requires classification, tabulation and analysis of data. This processing involves both mental and physical efforts and wastes time.
Situational limitations: Although visual presentation of information is comparatively easier, still at cannot be used in every situation. For example, qualitative and descriptive information cannot be presented visually.
Delay in taking decision: Precise presentation of information in visual aids hinders further processing of information in future if needed. It also delays the decision making process.
