An example slide with a title. There are 4 main bulleted entries and bulleted subentries below each main entry. There is a lot of text on the slide and it is set with small type. The background is dark purple and the text is black.

Analyze the design of this electronic presentation slide. What are three design problems, based on the design principles from this lesson?

1 answer

Based on the brief description of the electronic presentation slide, here are three design problems that can be identified, referencing common design principles:

  1. Contrast and Readability:

    • Problem: The slide background is dark purple while the text is black, leading to inadequate contrast. This can make it difficult for the audience to read the text effectively.
    • Design Principle Violated: Effective contrast is crucial for readability. Text should stand out from the background. Typically, light text on a dark background or dark text on a light background is preferred to ensure clarity and accessibility.
  2. Clutter and Information Overload:

    • Problem: The slide contains a lot of text, which can overwhelm the audience. Presenting too much information on one slide can lead to cognitive overload, making it hard for viewers to absorb key messages.
    • Design Principle Violated: Simplicity and clarity are essential for effective communication. Slides should convey one main idea with supporting details, rather than crowded with excessive text that can distract or confuse the audience.
  3. Font Size and Legibility:

    • Problem: The text is set in small type, which can be difficult for the audience to read, especially from a distance. This results in a slide that is not accessible to all viewers, particularly those who may have visual impairments.
    • Design Principle Violated: Legibility is a key component of effective design. Text size should be large enough to be easily read from the back of a room, typically at least 24-point size for main points, ensuring that all audience members can engage with the content.

By addressing these design problems, the slide could be made more effective in conveying information to the audience.