Presentation Innovation: Alternatives to PowerPoint

Sure, PowerPoint comes preinstalled with the rest of your Microsoft® programs. But did you know that there are other slideshow fish in the sea? And, they may be even more efficient and produce presentations that will blow your audience away! Let's face it, when you're presenting something, whether it's an idea or your newest product, your goal is usually to increase the power of your persuasion. So, let's not settle for the canned version we all have on our PCs. Instead, let's explore other options and see what they have to offer.

Beneficial Options

Corel: One of Microsoft Office's biggest competitors is Corel's WordPerfect Office X4. Included in this bundle is a presentation program that allows users to create slideshows and demonstrations. What's more, this program is even compatible with Microsoft Office, should collaboration between the two document types become necessary. If you've been a loyal WordPerfect user throughout the years, this option is a no-brainer for you.

This product's main advantage is that it's simply something other than PowerPoint, which will immediately offer you options other than the industry standard. However, one potential disadvantage is that Corel doesn't appear to offer a free trial of this product only. Further, you must purchase the full suite, which is approximately $300. But you can do so online.

Apple Keynote: Take a deep breath before you attempt to absorb all that Keynote 2009 has to offer. As a PC user, even I can't help but drool over the endless possibilities this software offers. It's almost enough to make me want to save my money (for a long time) and buy a Macintosh! Bland PowerPoint templates - which the whole world has seen for decades - will be gone when you use this program. Keynote 2009 offers various themes, transitions, special effects, charts with animation, innovative ways to share your presentation, and the ability to use the iPhone as a controller. Personally, I feel empowered just reading about this product.

Everyone knows that when it comes to graphics and animation, Macs blow PCs away, so it's no surprise that their presentation software is light years ahead of Microsoft. I would like to list a disadvantage of Keynote, but I can't find one - other than the fact that you have to own a Mac to use it. A free trial is available online at Apple or you can purchase the full version for about $80.

Online Alternatives

You don't necessarily have to spend big bucks to create a slideshow. Maybe all you're looking for is basic, easy-to-use, online software that can get you from your desk (point A) to your audience (point B) without having to master an entire application. PreZentit is one such application. This website lets you get started right away with a "try-it" option. One particular advantage of this online application is that you can work on your document from any location or machine - all you need is an Internet connection. PreZentit is also compatible with Internet Explorer, Firefox and Camino browsers.

Additionally, several people can work on the presentation simultaneously, and you can download the production and later showcase it to your audience without an Internet connection. However, one potential caveat is the 250 MB limit to store your images. Otherwise, this is an excellent - and free - alternative.

Just because your computer came boxed with PowerPoint doesn't mean you have to stay in that box. Jump out and explore other alternatives - you might actually find simple, yet innovative, ways to reach your audience.