Graphic Recorder (Graphic Note Taker) or Graphic Facilitator – Is there a difference?

The terms “Graphic Recorder” and “Graphic Facilitator” tend to get used interchangeably, which can be confusing, there is a difference though:

Graphic Recorder (GR) (also referred to as sketch note artist, visual note taker, graphic note taker)
The Graphic Recorder is a passive presence in the room, drawing what they hear. When I am Graphic Recording I am listening intently to the conversation or presentations; I am  very present in this state of observation and deeply focused. The GR may create a single drawing that synthesizes major themes and connections, or many detailed drawings throughout the event. Other terms that are often used to describe a Graphic Recorder are: visual note taker, graphic note taker, scribe, graphic scribe, visual scribe. A full portfolio of Graphic Recordings can be viewed here.

Sample of a GRAPHIC RECORDING. This piece is a synthesis of a full day of community listening sessions and breakout groups

Graphic Facilitator (GF)
​A Graphic Facilitator takes an active role in the room. The GR works alone or as part of a team to create a group process. They may create templates as part of the process, and they will use a variety of visual tools (such as stickies, multiple charts to gather input, templates to guide processes, visualization cards) as part of the group exercises. This sample shows a template designed by the facilitator and the Graphic Facilitator working in partnership, for a group process. Also shown is the template after the group worked their way through interactive processes that had them working individually, in pairs, and small groups.

Sample of a template used during a session that used just a few of the visual tools of GRAPHIC FACILITATION.