PowerPoint (and Apple’s Keynote) is the standard software for presentations, but other programs exist, too. Are those alternatives worth using?
The case for PowerPoint/Keynote
For most speakers, using non-standard presentation software is not worth it.
The functionality of alternative programs can seem attractive. But the non-standard programs have three major drawbacks that you need to consider:
Stability. The standard programs are incredibly stable. Non-standard programs have a much higher likelihood of crashing during your talk.
Client hassle. Event organizers tend to dislike the extra work and uncertainty that comes with using non-standard presentation software.
They may go out of business. Unfair but true: The startups that offer non-standard programs may eventually fail, forcing you to recreate your slides on a new platform.
On top of this, the new functionality is often just a gimmick, and won’t actually help the audience learn better (even if they remember the gimmick itself). Gimmicks can be ok, to be clear – but they are rarely a strong enough reason to go non-standard.
What are the exceptions?
There are times where it makes sense to use non-standard presentation software:
If it helps you sell. Some clients will be drawn to the ‘wow’ effect of new technology. In competitive markets, that can be enough to tip the scales in your direction.
If it truly enhances learning. Some programs may offer real value-add that allows audience to learn better.
When you can’t help yourself. Some speakers just love experimenting with new technology. If that’s you, by all means, go for it. Just don’t forget about making the talk good as well as technically impressive.
In many cases, though, creative use of PowerPoint and Keynote can achieve the exact same effect that the non-standard software offers. Look deeper into the standard programs before making the decision to go non-standard.
How about NOT using slides at all?
Some public-speaking experts dislike slides and suggest that speakers should not use them at all.
That is largely misguided. The problem is not slides, but bad slides.
When used right, slides can be an amazing tool to reinforce your ideas and make your talk come alive. And if part of your talk doesn’t need visuals, you can always show a logo or a black slide for that part.
Also, with the Module Method approach, you will reuse the same slides many times, making the initial design investment worth it.
In short: use slides unless you have a strong reason not to.