Powerpoint Presentations - love em or hate them!

Hi Sue

I think there are arguments for and against Powerpoint. For instance I have seen people using Powerpoint for several of their CC speeches which I don't think is a good idea as this is a time when people should be working on their speaking techniques. 1 or 2 maybe but when it approaches half the manual (which I've seen happen) I think it's too much.

That said I used Powerpoint for several Advanced Communicator speeches and felt it really added to the presentations. I noticed, however, that over time my evaluation slips became evenly divided between "great slides" and "don't use Powerpoint in your next speech". You can't win!! It's down to the individual.

To sum up, I see nothing wrong in using Powerpoint as a supplement to a speech; provided it's done in moderation. Otherwise there's a risk that people will think you're using it as a crutch.

Some recommendations for PP

1. Arrive early and be familiar with the area you will set up your equipment, particularly if not your usual location.

2. Bring an extension power cord, sockets may be out of reach.

3. Use a remote control (needs an extra USB cable)

4. If unfamilair with equipment, practice beforehand. Nothing worse than standing in front of everyone and the image won't project.

5. Try not to look at the slides. if nervous that slides might not have advanced, arrange in advance for audience member to signal you.

6. Fewer slides is better.

7. Images work better than text.

Down with all Luddites!!!!

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Great question Sue, great answer Barry :-)

I would use PP and would use very few words and focus on great graphics and images to get my key points.  This is easy said than done in the real world.

How many of us would be brave enough to just provide images on a PP for a business presentation!!??

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