Design your presentation right...
Right from the start
By Kevin Lerner, Executive Director of The Presentation Team

Starting a presentation is a little like pushing a car uphill. But with the proper planning and forethought, presentation design can be a breeze. These helpful pointers can help save time and frustration the next time you need to present.

Know your deadlines
Before starting your presentation, it's important to have an idea of how much work is involved in developing the presentation...and how much time it will take. Set benchmarks and goals throughout the development period. Aim to finish the presentation a day ahead of schedule.

Design for your Audience
Always look at your presentation through the eyes of your audience. It may be the coolest thing you've ever designed, but will it fit with the company's brand or image? Are the colors appropriate? Consider your audience's age and gender. Is the presentation formal or informal?

Know your Presentation Venue and Output Medium
Are you presenting in a large auditorium or in a small group? Will your presentation be shown on paper, projected, 35mm slides, or laptop-based? These questions are vital to help determine the appropriate fonts, sizing, and spacing. Try to preview the presentation venue beforehand to get a better idea of how your show will look.

Sizzle can fizzle
Sometimes, too much flash can ruin a presentation. Don't go overboard with wild transitions and screen effects. The focus is on the message, not the medium.

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