Word clouds are a visually appealing way to distill key concepts from larger amounts of data. There are several programs that offer this service for free on the Web. (Check out a summary explanation of several of them here.) All of which makes them an easy, free, simple, fast tool that can add a little panache to your work.

Here are five ways to try them out today:

1. Meeting notes

Are you the lucky one responsible for taking notes at a meeting? Or just the only one responsible enough to do so? Mix it up by copy and pasting the content of your meetings notes into a word cloud. It is particularly helpful if you are in an informational meeting reviewing content, training or concepts as the cloud provides a visually appealing reminder of the discussion.

2. Job descriptions

As an HR person, this is my favorite to do with my clients. Using one of the word cloud tools that reflects word frequency, I plug in their job descriptions and see if the impression they create really reflects the key requirements of the job. If not, it is back to the drawing board. Then once it is ready, it is a great way to distinguish the job posting via social media.

3. Visual appeal in a presentation

Any time you want to mix it up a little in your Presi or PowerPoint, it is nice to throw in a little advanced word art. Reminder, like any other time you put words on the screen, people will read them and they cannot listen to you at the same time.

Use your word cloud wisely: like as a break so you can get water; as a summary of the key concepts you just reviewed; or as a really strong emphasis on one word or phrase that you want to drive home. The programs that allow you to adjust color and font work best for this use.

4. Office/cubicle wall inspiration

Whether you are trying to stay focused or helping someone on your team with a little inspiration, a keyword cloud can be a quick, easy solution. Throw in your project keywords for the week or month based on your goals and have a nice reminder of what you are working toward.

Or, generate a cloud of quotes, inspirational words or humor to give your cubicle neighbor a boost in their day. It takes minutes; try it.

5. Productivity analysis

If you are ready for potential depression, put your tasks or to-do list into a word cloud. On those weeks where you feel like you are doing nothing but making copies, you may end up with clear visual proof that you are right. Or worse, you will see all the things you were supposed to do but did not.

Either way, for those of you trying to improve your time management: taking a look at your to-do list from this perspective can be a real eye-opener.

Enjoy!