Tuesday, 23 Aug 2011

Projection System

We always assume that it's all plug and play. Trying out the projection system before Presentation Day is not always a luxury we have. When possible, make the extra effort to try out the projection system that you are going to use on Presentation Day. This is to ensure that the projection system is able to reproduce the colours from your presentation with acceptable resolution, contrast and brightness.

Computer System

Whose computer are you using on Presentation Day? Is it yours or someone else's computer?

• If it's your own, then you have less problem. However you will need to ensure that you know how to operate your own computer while connected to the projection system. Ensure that you know how to toggle your computer screen to display on the projection screen. Figure that out before Presentation Day and not when it's your turn to be up on stage. If you are using a MacBook, remember to bring your VGA adaptor.
• If it's someone else's computer then you need to be cautious. Ensure that the PowerPoint version installed in the other computer can work with your presentation file. If you are using fonts that are not the standard ones, ensure that you embed those special fonts into your presentation file or install it onto the other computer. Better still, use only standard fonts.

Wireless Clicker

If you are using your own computer on Presentation Day, be sure you have your own wireless clicker. Besides being familiar with your presentation slides, you need to be familiar with the device that controls your slides. Make effort to rehearse using your wireless clicker. Many presenters only bring out their wireless clicker on Presentation Day. If you do not rehearse with your wireless clicker, you will not know if your clicker is still working; you will never realise that the battery in the clicker is weak and is not responsive to your click.

Plan Version 1.1

You might not always get to know your audience before the presentation. Sometimes halfway into your presentation, you realise that the audience does not respond well to your planned presentation. Having Plan B might not be practical, for that would mean switching to another presentation. What required is Plan Version 1.1. This is not an entirely different presentation but a variation of how you would deliver the message. Instead of memorising your script (which is not recommended), associate your messages through keywords. This will give you the flexibility to adjust your delivery according to the situation on Presentation Day.

Voice

If you have prepared well and know your content, your presentation can go on even if technology fails you. However, without your voice there is no presentation. On Presentation Day, avoid food and drinks that might give stress to your voice. Sugared drinks, coffee and tea are bad for your voice. Always drink plain water. Have a glass of water with you while you speak. It is okay to pause in the middle of your presentation to take a sip.