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How do you feel about this? Lots of text Multiple colors Multiple things in Upper Case Different fonts 2
Avoid large amounts of text and multiple colors Use graphs, tables and pictures Make sure your audience can read them on handouts and screen Should relate to message and make a point Simple is best! Use short titles to convey your message Example: Ridership On the Rise 3
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Avoid the All Word Slide Avoid the use of a large block paragraph to introduce your information. Attendees do not like to have what is on the screen, read to them verbatim. Use short, bulleted statements and avoid typing out your whole presentation on the slides. Also, it is difficult for some to listen and read a large amount of text at the same time. 5
Control Your Message The presentation will have only key points posted. The MEAD/BA/IS is your opportunity to tell the story you want your audience to know. This is where you will have an opportunity to tell the story you want to see in the Express. There are 15 categories for MEADs requiring Board action. Each serves a purpose. Give clear, explanations of what is required of the Board, how we reached that point, and what we re going to do about it. Templates are provided to guide you along the way. Use key points from your MEAD to include in the presentation. 6
This and the following few slides indicate the template used when presenting materials before the Board. Keep in mind, presentations to the Board are often posted to the internet for the public and media to see before you have an opportunity to explain. 7
Message statement keep it short Why is this item before the Board? Why is this important to customers? Why is this important to Metro? Action items Explain what we are requesting from the Board Information items Explain what the Board needs to know, esp. if a future action is required 8
Provide context messages and key points Board should know List previous, relevant Board actions Do NOT try to put all background on the slide Use the PowerPoint notes page for more talking points Refer audience to an appendix if necessary Use visuals as appropriate Pictures, graphs, charts 9
Include a cost/benefit slide if appropriate Potential costs and benefits to customers, Board, and jurisdictions Remember that costs are not always monetary Discuss funding impact if necessary Be consistent with Board Action/Information Summary (BAIS) Don t include project, CIP or contract number on the slide means nothing to the Board or public Identify reimbursable projects funded by jurisdictions Most items impact funding to some extent, even if they are already in the budget or an information item. If the item is free to Metro, such as paid for by another agency, donation by a generous benefactor, say that. It is ok to use an additional page, but only if the information is necessary and contributes to your message. 10
Action items: last slide should be staff recommendation Recommendations should be consistent with the BAIS Information items: last slide should be Next Steps Tells the Board what happens next If you have additional information, use an appendix 11
The template includes other helpful tips about fonts, bullets and printing. Remember your message when choosing photographs. Examine photos to ensure consistency with your message. 12
Remember, only you can prevent death by PowerPoint! 13