I’ve written several blogs about Nancy Duarte’s Resonate. As a frequent speaker and presenter, I can confidently say that the presentation techniques in Resonate are very effective. While I’m a big fan of Duarte’s approach, I don’t think it’s the only method that works. Every speaker has his or her own style and preference, and for those of you looking to improve your presentation skills, it’s important to explore multiple perspectives.
Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery, by Garr Reynolds, is another fantastic resource. Duarte and Reynolds overlap in some of their presentation philosophies; however, Reynolds brings a wealth of unique ideas to the table that can take your presentations to the next level – particularly if Duarte’s approach doesn’t resonate with you (pun intended).
Here’s a summary from Amazon Books:
“Presentation designer and internationally acclaimed communications expert Garr Reynolds, creator of the most popular website on presentation design and delivery on the net — presentationzen.com — shares his experience in a provocative mix of illumination, inspiration, education, and guidance that will change the way you think about making presentations with PowerPoint or Keynote. Presentation Zen challenges the conventional wisdom of making "slide presentations" in today’s world and encourages you to think differently and more creatively about the preparation, design, and delivery of your presentations. Garr shares lessons and perspectives that draw upon practical advice from the fields of communication and business. Combining solid principles of design with the tenets of Zen simplicity, this book will help you along the path to simpler, more effective presentations.”
