Effective Powerpoint Presentation Design
How information is presented will determine how much is remembered and for how long. Attention to PowerPoint presentation design will improve the probability that the audience remembers more of the information shared for longer. Telling a story, simple visual elements and branding will make a presentation professional and memorable.
Telling a Story
Creating a presentation that tells a story will help people remember the information. Presenting the problem, giving the facts and then tying everything together into the solution will give a framework that is easy to follow. However, telling a story goes beyond organizing the content and will help viewers remember the main point, even if they don’t remember the specific statistics.
Including personal stories or anecdotes related to the subject will help build a relationship with the audience and hold their attention. If no personal stories are appropriate find a story from the news or media that fits the subject. If no stories are available or relevant use a strong visual statement to make your point. For example if one point of your presentation is the importance of being organized, take a moment to describe a stereotypical teen bedroom with the complete lack of organization associated with that image. People will remember that longer then they will remember the percentage of improved productivity when a person is organized.
Simple Visual Elements
Many people who are new to giving a presentation tend to clutter up the visuals. Powerpoint presentations with too many words, or words that are too small are not only difficult to read, but will turn people off. Use the fewest possible words or use images instead. Presentations should give a framework for what you are saying, not give the whole presentation. If everything you say is written on the screen people will stop listening altogether. If the words on the screen ask questions or give leading information so the presenter can expand on the topic people are more likely to listen.
Branding
Part of the visuals of any presentation is the branding. Don’t overlook the importance of every presentation in advertising the business brand. Simple tips such as ensuring all fonts in a presentation are the same, color changes are deliberate and transitions are not jarring will help a presentation look professional. Think of every presentation as a form of marketing and make sure that it complies with company policy.
Effective PowerPoint presentation design is vital to ensuring every presentation is polished and professional.