guidelines for Using Presentation aids 14.4 311
Use Technology Effectively
You may be tempted to use some of the newer technologies we have
described because of their novelty rather than their value in helping you
communicate your message. Some novice speakers will overuse presentation
aids simply because they can quickly produce eye-catching visuals. Resist
this temptation.
Don’t assume that the hardware and software you need will be available in
the room where you are speaking. Be sure to find out what kinds of technology
exist.
Even if you have asked and you are appropriately prepared on the basis of
the information you were given, have a backup plan. You might want to bring
your own laptop or a backup flash drive or other device for storing your slides.
Another strategy is to email your computer slides to yourself, or back up the
files to a cloud storage site, so that you can retrieve them as a backup.
In spite of the potential problems that using technology may present, inno-
vations such as YouTube and computer images are destined to play a growing
role in public speaking. In this technology- and image-dependent culture, listen-
ers expect technology to support a message. Nonetheless, when using technol-
ogy, keep the basic principles we’ve offered in mind: Make it big, integrate the
words and images into your talk, and properly time your visuals to coincide
with your message content. And don’t forget to rehearse using the same technol-
ogy you will use during your talk.Remember Murphy’s Law
According to Murphy’s Law, if something can go wrong, it will. When you use
presentation aids, you increase the chances that problems or snags will develop
when you present your speech. The chart might fall off the easel, you might
not find the chalk, or the computer in the room may not be compatible with
your software. We are not saying that you should be a pessimist but that you
should have backup supplies and an alternative plan in case your original plans
go awry.
If something doesn’t go as you planned, do your best to keep your speech
on track. If the chart falls over, simply pick it up and keep talking; don’t offer
lengthy apologies. If you can’t find the chalk, ask a friend to go on a chalk hunt
in another room. No computer-generated slides as you had planned? Have all
key pieces of information in your notes rather than relying on the computer
slides to be your speech notes. A thorough rehearsal, a double-check of your
equipment, backup images, and extra supplies such as extension cords and
masking tape can help to repeal Murphy’s Law.M14_BEEB3981_05_SE_C14_289-314.indd 311 11/18/14 11:27 AM