Using PowerPoint Backgrounds

Research has shown that the visual aspects of a presentation may be even more important than the words were spoken. The audience is continually looking for indications that you can be taken seriously:

"Graphics are a good indication of the amount of preparation that has been done to prepare for the event. If a presenter haven't given it much thought it will be obvious from the lack of visual impact projected onto that big screen."

We've developed some backgrounds that you can use for your next presentation. They'll make things a little easier for you and the link is on this page. You can scroll down and download three free PowerPoint backgrounds and use them for any of your presentations

The Best from PowerPoint templates

It's your page You can change the layout of the text on the templates but I would strongly recommend that you do not change the number of lines on the page. In other words, stick to one headline and three points for each page. If you have additional points then simply duplicate the page and start again.

Limit your words

I would also recommend that you limit the number of words you use in each line and never use multiple lines for a single point. For example, suppose you want to talk about the quality of your backup service. You might be tempted to use something like: "Our backup service has been given three significant awards over the past five years."

It's your line

The problem is that PowerPoint will either force you onto a second line or will change the size of the text. Instead consider using something like: "Outstanding service awards". Then you can talk about each award in greater detail. That's too long.

Fonts and graphics

You may want to change the font to complement your message. I would recommend against using an ornate font unless you have a very good reason for doing so.

The default font

These PowerPoint templates are suitable for PowerPoint 2000 onwards - (they may even work with PowerPoint 97). When you open them you'll find that the heading and the individual points are in the default font - usually Times New Roman. This is a nice-looking font and is particularly suitable for small text. However, you may want to consider using a sans-serf font for the headings.

Background

Use the background that suits your message best. If possible you should try to come up with a metaphor to link the graphic to one or more of your key points. That will help the audience remember your message later.

Positioning

You should consider positioning of your points in relation to the background graphic and the main heading. Each of these PowerPoint backgrounds uses a slightly different approach and you must decide which is best for your presentation. For example, you might want to centre all the text - but is that the best approach? Unless your key points are all exactly the same length the final result will not look good. Instead, consider lining up the left-hand side of the text with the heading or, for something a little more unusual, line up the right-hand sides of both.

Our presentation software

If you've been thinking about improving the graphics element of your presentations have a look at our software. Click on the software button below and you'll see demonstrations of the various presentations available and you judge for yourself if they'll make a significant improvement to the impact of your own presentations.

Download the PowerPoint Backgrounds

In case you were getting impatient - you can download the three backgrounds by clicking on the button below.