The Dos and Don’ts of Presenting Big Data in a PPT

The world of big data can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to presenting it to an audience. With the rise of data visualization tools like PowerPoint, it’s become increasingly easy to communicate complex data sets in a clear and concise way. However, there are certain dos and don’ts that presenters should keep in mind to ensure an effective presentation. In this article, we’ll explore some of the crucial elements of presenting big data effectively in a PPT.

Dos:

1. Keep it Simple: The key to effectively presenting big data is to make it simple. To achieve this, you should start with a clear message or point that you want to convey. Once you have established the objective, use simple visuals such as bar graphs, pie charts, and line charts to present the data. The simpler your charts and graphs, the easier it will be for your audience to understand.

2. Tell a Story: A presentation is more than just a series of charts and graphs. You need to weave a narrative around your data to make it more interesting and memorable. Consider starting with a story or anecdote that sets the stage for your data. Then, use your dataset to reinforce the themes of the story.

3. Show the Big Picture: Context is critical when presenting data. You need to explain why this data is important and how it fits into the bigger picture. Consider including an overview slide that clearly outlines the key takeaways of your presentation. This can be a great way to hook your audience right from the start.

4. Use Infographics: Infographics are a great way to convey complex information in a visually compelling way. In addition to traditional charts and graphs, consider using infographics to present your data visually. This technique can be particularly effective when you want to highlight trends or patterns that might not be clear in a traditional chart format.

Don’ts:

1. Overcomplicate your Presentation: Remember that the point of your presentation is to convey information to your audience, not to show off. Avoid using overly complex charts and graphs that might confuse your audience. Stick to simple visuals that clearly illustrate your point.

2. Use Jargon: Jargon can be an alienating factor for your audience. While it might make you sound knowledgeable, it could leave your audience feeling confused or disconnected from your message. Stick to simple language that enables your audience to follow along with your presentation effectively.

3. Overlook Design Considerations: Your presentation should look good. Avoid cluttered slides, overly busy visuals, or any design element that detracts from your presentation’s focus. Use contrasting colors, font hierarchy, and other design considerations to make your presentation stand out.

4. Overlook Preparation: Finally, don’t forget to prepare. Spend plenty of time working on your presentation, practicing your delivery, and getting feedback from your peers. The better prepared you are, the more professional and impactful your presentation will be.

Conclusion:

Presenting big data in a PPT is a complex task, but by following some dos and don’ts, it’s possible to create a compelling and memorable presentation. Keep it simple, tell a story, show the big picture, and use infographics to convey your message effectively. Avoid overcomplicating your presentation, using jargon, overlooking design considerations, or failing to prepare. Following these guidelines will help you create a winning PPT that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.