Presenting the world’s stories

In the last two weeks of class, we have talked about effective presentations in preparation for our client presentations at the end of the semester. And I have to say, I wish I had known about ted.org sooner. Browsing through the “ideas worth sharing,” I stumbled upon a talk by Jonathan Harris, entitled “The Web’s Secret Stories.” While there are a few problems that I have with his presentation style, such as the many, many “um”s, overall, I thought the presentation was a wonderful example of different ways to present data.

Most of his presentation focused on a site called “We Feel Fine.” This site looks at blogs posted throughout the world every few minutes, and picks up on any sentence that includes the phrases “I feel,” or “I am feeling.” From here, it creates a database represented by floating orbs that characterize this unique blogosphere into the different feelings that are actually being felt. It is a unique way to present data that encapsulates so many people and emotions in one cohesive, easy-to-manage site.

Harris also spoke of an event in Albuquerque, New Mexico that featured a world-wide time capsule projected into the night sky. Here, Harris presented photos to capture the mood of the event and of the project. These photos were very effective in presenting an event that focused on significant moments throughout the world. He used no text in his presentation, but instead used media and photos to accompany his spoken message.

Since our discussions in class on effective presentations, what ideas have you come upon that are inspiring to your client presentations? What do you feel is an effective way to present data, and make it memorable? Share links to your favorite presentations that you can see really affecting your future presentations.

Technology is a slave to me

For many of us, technology allows faster means of communication and greater job efficiency.  With new developments being released every day it’s easy to get carried away with everything.  I came across a post from A Shel of My Former Self  blog, which describes how all forms of technology should be taken advantage of to the fullest extent in business, particularly public relations without feeling guilty about neglecting older forms of communication.  This post is a response by blogger Shel Holtz, ABC, principal Holtz Communication and Technology, who recently read another blog asking public relations practitioners to return to more personal means of communication like the telephone.  But with deals and other forms of business taking place online, is it necessary to lay off the e-mail?

Holtz argues that PR practitioners shouldn’t have to sacrifice internet-based communication tools, but should incorporate them with face-to-face meetings and phone calls.  It’s important to remember that the telephone is technology too.  And while some people are overly-dependent on technology in the workplace, the power of in-person communication should not be underestimated especially when it’s most appropriate.  The post cites an example of employees being fired over e-mail, which I believe takes technology too far.  It’s important to utilize channels of communication that are professional for the situation.

I believe we shouldn’t fear our dependency on technology as long as we don’t abuse it.  There is no reason to limit ourselves if we’re able to effectively reach the client, stakeholders and remain within the realm of professionalism.  E-mail isn’t unconventional anymore, in fact, it’s widely accepted for numerous tasks.  And having interned at a local public relations firm I know that the telephone is alive and well.  Voice tone can express sincerity and reassurance much more naturally than text.  For this reason, I believe phone calls will remain an important part of PR.  Each form of communication should be used to its strength.