I have the opportunity to prepare a research poster for a non-mathematical, yet scientifically savvy audience, and I want to do it well. I have asked a few mathematicians, and I have heard the following sound advice:


* Use interesting graphics.
* Elaborate on possible applications to other scientific fields.


Although easier for applied mathematicians, this will be ok as I study subfactors, which have connections to quantum physics and statistical mechanics, and planar algebras, which provide great graphics. But there are practical questions as well:


* How can I use LaTeX to make a poster?
* How can I avoid using mathematical symbols and technical language?


What makes a good math research poster? What are some good ways to target a non-mathematical audience? Does anyone have examples and/or templates using LaTeX? What other advice would you give a mathematician who has never made a research poster before?


A few asides:


* I'm not sure if this is community wiki. I'm more than happy to click the box if requested.
* Feel free to retag this question as you see fit.
* I will answer my own question after the poster presentation, and I will have all of my materials available online.



How do you make a good math research poster for a non-mathematical audience?
For technical question 1 I would recommend [beamerposter](http://www-i6.informatik.rwth-aachen.de/~dreuw/latexbeamerposter.php).


