Been doing PDF reports forever but wondering if I should switch to PowerPoint presentations. Seems like everyone expects slides now. What are you all using for final deliverables? Do clients prefer one format over another?
PowerPoint vs. PDF Reports - Which Do You Use?
I do both. PowerPoint for the presentation meeting, then PDF for their files. PPT keeps them engaged during the meeting, PDF gives them something permanent to reference later. Extra work but worth it.
PowerPoint all the way. Easier to update, better graphics, and you can do animations to show before/after scenarios. Plus they can use slides in their own board presentations.
PDF feels more professional to me. PowerPoint always looks like a sales pitch. But I'm old school - maybe I need to evolve with the times.
Depends on the client and situation. Manufacturing clients often want PDF they can print and mark up. Tech companies expect interactive presentations. Healthcare is mixed. Ask what they prefer upfront.
I started using PowerPoint templates with consistent branding. Makes me look more professional and clients remember my company better. PDF reports all look the same after a while.
Joan makes a good point about branding. I've been doing plain PDF reports and they definitely don't stand out. Time to step up my game I guess.
Whatever format you use, make sure the file size isn't huge. Had a client complain they couldn't email my 50MB PDF report. Now I optimize everything before sending.
Tina, yes! I learned that lesson the hard way. Also make sure slides are readable on phones - more clients are reviewing stuff on mobile these days.