As mentioned in a previous post about handouts, a “supergraphic” can often times help your storytelling. It contains such a large amount of information that is is nearly impossible to present using a slideware application. I learned about supergraphics from a workshop in November by the well-known Edward Tufte entitled Presenting Data and Information. (If you can attend this course, I highly recommend it.)
Supergraphics are interpreted by the viewer on their own terms. Allow an audience to absorb the information at their own rate. Sure, you may wish to call attention to certain details, that’s why you’re in front of them, let the audience come to their own conclusions and this can generate fruitful discussion during or following your talk.
What it can also do is, keep your audience engaged.
“What if I don’t have a supergraphic?” That’s ok. Maybe there’s some form of data you want to share that can be made into one. Maybe not. Neither is the rule. The overarching theme here is to not force anything. Don’t make a supergraphic for supergraphics sake as it will not compliment your talk. It has to have use, meaning.
When working with clients I always ask the questions: what’s the main thing you want to get across in your talk? Another way to put that would be: if I were to ask an audience member walking out of the room after you finished your presentation, what is the one point you want this person to remember?
Distill and distill. The distill some more. Be careful of the word “and.” Its presence can show that you haven’t distilled your point enough.
For example:
Our technology can save people money and increase energy efficiency while heating their homes and reduce the carbon footprint of the economy, is easy to install because it has on ly 2 parts and it only costs $30.
See what I mean?
There’s the flip-side to this and that is to have your point so distilled, its too general. For example:
Our technology can save people hundreds of dollars
Right. Who doesn’t claim that?
Often times I find that if I’m working with a team, the individuals of the team have differing opinions on this. Make sure you (and your team, if applicable) know what the main point is. Just one main point. That will help you set the direction for your entire presentation and all your surrounding points will guide you to the ‘main thing.’ Your audience will thank you.
