CHAPTER 5: USING GRAPHICAL & POWER POINT FOR A LEADERSHIP EDGE

Babajide Okuntola

May 15, 2009

LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATION

(BA 318) Chapter 5

Using Graphical & Power Point for a Leadership Edge

This chapter gives us an insight to the following;

1. Recognize when to use graphics

2. Select & design effective data charts

3. Create meaningful and effective text layouts

4. Employ fundamental graphic content & design principles

5. Make the most of PowerPoint as a design and presentation tools

Further breakdowns of the above insights on this chapter are stated below. 

1) When to use graphics in presentations are as follows;

• Reinforce the message 

• Provide a roadmap to the structure

• Illustrate relationships or concepts visually

• Support an assertion

• Emphasize important ideas

• Maintain and enhance interest

2) When to select and design effective data charts are as follows;

• Pie = Compare proportions and relative amounts

• Bars = Convey absolute value data, relative sizes, or close comparisons

• Step or waterfall = Convey differences

• Histograms = Show  what’s typical or exceptional

• Line = Demonstrate trends or interactions between variables

• Scatter Plot = Illustrate how well one thing predicts another

3) Create meaningful and effective text layouts; it is important that when developing a presentation slide, the text layout is very visible and clear. It is also important that a slide is not heavily populated with too much information.

 

4) Employ fundamental graphic content & design principles: there are basic tips on how a slide; see below

a) How to design a slide;

• Keep it simple:  Remember “Less is more” 

• Have only one message per slide

• Make sure the slide title captures the “so what?” 

• Select graphics that support the message 

• Use shading to guide audience to the message

• Use animation only if it reinforces the message

b) How to use colors in slides;

• Dark background (dark blue to black)

• White, cream, yellow, or gold font

• Arial or similar sans serif font

• At least 20 point font size for text, depending on size of the room

• 28+ font size for titles, depending on room

c) Colors and fonts to avoid;

• White background

• Black serif font

• All caps in titles or text

• Initial caps except in titles

• Underlining of text

• Red font on blue backgrounds

In summary, the study of this chapter will help improve your power point presentation skills.