I’m softening towards slideware (PowerPoint/Keynote) in my old age, especially since my Presentation Zen conversion. I also understand that in corporate contexts, especially with IT presentations and other technical subjects, it is, if not required, then at least heavily expected.
I am, however, still the enemy of bad PowerPoint.
Seth Godin, the well-respected marketer, has outlined his ideas for good use of graphs.
His rules are:
1. One Story
Make one point and only one point with a graph.
2. No Bar Charts
Bar charts are the most over-used and ill-used chart. There is mostly a better way of sharing the data to get your one point across. He demonstrates the bar chart vs pie chart debate more clearly here.
3. Motion
Create two slides. Establish the first slide. Make your point about your source and its validity. Then press the advance button. Boom.
Indeed.
PowerPoint is not my topic at all, so it’s nice to find concise advice from someone who’s done the thinking already. Adds to my view that people interested in communication should read what good marketing people are saying. Seth’s blog is a good place to start.
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This is really useful and to-the-point.
Hey Hani
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment.
It’s good to get feedback!