Design: Slide decks

Design: Slide decks

I love using the online, spatially-unexpected platform, Prezi, for speeches and presentations that benefit from some supporting visuals. But I know that IRL, most speakers prefer the familiarity of PowerPoint. The simplicity of the linear slide deck can be completely suitable for many occasions, but those slides ought to follow a few simple rules:

  1. Limit text. Under no circumstances should you read parts of your remarks from a slide. Then the slide becomes the focus, and you become the accessory. Why bring a room full of people together for something you could have attached to an email?

  2. Be design-forward. Whatever design scheme you choose, make it consistent throughout your slide deck, and make it interesting. I like the look and contrast of color-blocking. Animations are fun. Geometric, asymmetric and isometric design are all trending. For more inspiration, review these 2020 design trends to incorporate into your slide deck.

  3. Only show if it helps you tell. Edit your slides ruthlessly. As an exercise, try limiting your slides to five for a 20 minute speech. Use only slides that actually illustrate a point — maps, pictures and infographics are all an excellent use of slide space.

Bottom line: Only use a slide as an advantage to your remarks — never as a crutch.

If you’ve ever heard the fashion advice, “Create the look you want to see walk into the room,” the same applies to your chosen visuals. Your presentation is a reflection on you, so make it sharp. Create a presentation that you’re not only proud of, but one that you’d be inspired by if you were in the audience.

Sidebars series: On props

Sidebars series: On props

Branding: Intercultural communication

Branding: Intercultural communication