Chapter Five. Using Graphics and PowerPoint for a Leadership Edge.

Summary:

Leaders need to know how and when to use graphics. Graphics improve presentations and documents, particularly if the material is primarily quantitative, structural, pictorial, or so complicated that it can be illustrated more efficiently and more effectively with a visual aid then with words alone. Graphics will contribute to the success of oral and written communications. Most people are more visually oriented today than in the past, and they expect and respond graphics in presentations and printed documents. Even though it is a cliché, the expression “a picture is worth a thousand words” conveys a powerful truth. People respond to visuals. In fact, research has proven that presentations with visual aids are 43 percent more persuasive.
Leaders use visuals that are integral to the communication of their intended meanings and not ones simply added for show. When selected appropriately and designed carefully, graphics embody and carry the meanings that create your message. With the introduction of PowerPoint, the default presentation graphics program for business presenters, and the improving graphic capabilities of MS Word, adding graphics to communications has become increasingly easier. However, the ease of use has also led to gratuitous and poorly designed graphics and presentations with more flash than content.
Used appropriately, graphics and PowerPoint provide a leadership edge. Knowing how to deliver messages effectively with words and pictures is a powerful combination, and delivering even a basic understanding of the principles of graphic design can provide an advantage.
This chapter focused on when and how to use graphics effectively, provide some basic guidelines for designing effective graphics, deliver some guidance and presenting PowerPoint slides.
In this chapter, the following objectives:

Recognizing when to use graphics

Selecting and designing effective data charts

Creating meaningful and effective text layouts

Employing fundamental graphic content and design principles

Making the most of PowerPoint as a design and presentation tool