Expert from the Creative Industry - Tim Murphy: 3 Golden Rules about Your Slide Package
Tim Murphy is our expert from the creative industry. He possess over 17 years of experience in project and people management. Here are Murphy’s inputs for the top three qualities of a first-class PowerPoint presentation:
1. Contrast in Background & Text Colors
Background and text colors must contrast enough to be read when projected. It can look great on the computer, but horrible once projected. For example, black may look like a dark gray on screen. Deep red may look more orange than intended. Also, keep the background where the text will be presented simple. It may look great on your computer screen, but impossible to read when projected. It is always best to check ahead of time if possible.
2. Leave enough space for the text
I’ve seen presentations that didn’t leave enough room for the text and often the presenter will overlap the text over the graphic, making the presentation difficult to read. Unfortunately, most people want the presentation background created before the text is ready. The presentation would look much better if the designer had a sample of the text-heaviest slide, so they could design the entire presentation for the worst case scenario. I’ve seen headlines 1-3 lines deep, and I’ve seen people try to place "War and Peace" on one slide. If you design for the best case scenario, you’ll be in trouble.
3. Keep Bullets Short
If you have any influence on text, keep the bullets short as possible. Too often, speakers like to put their entire presentation on screen. Bullets should serve as the topic that is about to be discussed.
