Visually Speaking

The templates you find in most graphic software programs offer a variety of graphic elements, geometric shapes, and other interesting components to carry a design theme throughout the presentation.

When you work with templates, check to see if the design is generic or specific.

Generic templates contain very simple geometric shapes. Specific templates contain more complex and noticeable designs. Complexity forces the brain to interpret and think. So, if the template has a “tropical” theme (specific), audience members may think “Hawaii” when they see the silhouette of a palm tree in the background. This is a distraction.

Overall, templates should not hinder readability from a distance nor contain specific design elements that cause the audience to be distracted from the message. The presenter delivers the message, the visuals only support it.

Hey — if you’re marveling at the costumes, then you can’t be listening to the lines!

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