An Event Without Power Point

How viable is it to run a technical event without Power Point presentations ? This is my big challenge.

Each year I run the UK Embedded Masterclass. It started as a small forum to for the exchange of information regarding new Embedded Systems technologies. Now, in its 10th year, we have over 30 of the leading Embedded Systems vendors involved, 6 1/2 day technical workshops, a schedule of presentations and expect 200-300 embedded engineers to attend. http://www.embedded-masterclass.com

Why the no Power Point approach ?

As an engineer, I think its tough going, sitting through an endless array of bullet points, presentation after presentation. In addition to this, I once listened to a very informative program that blamed Power Point for the failure of a space shuttle mission. There point was, that using Power Point dictates the nature and the structure of the information that is being relayed. In many instances, it is inflexible and inferior, to say, a carefully written and considered report. Has Power Point had its day ? are well all Power Point fatiqued ?

Interestingly, pretty much everyone involved in the event agree with my concerns. Some presenters are excited with the challenge of using just a whiteboard, flip chart and hand-outs. Others are paralised with fear, but coming around to the idea. One or two thought it outrangeous and impossible but seem to be thawing.

Already I am seeing signs that the presenters are planning their performance much more carefully and already there are signs that this year's presentations will be more interesting, better delivered and simply more enjoyable.

Why all this fuss anyway ? Well, we need to give engineers a good reason to leave their desk. They need to have a productive, informative and useful day if we want to attract them to these type of events.

If you have a view on this - we'd welcome the feedback - the event is May 6th &May 11th - so plenty of time to fine tune our approach.

Thanks

Richard