slide:ology

CHAPTER 1

1

Creating a New Slide Ideology

2 slide:ology

We are all inherently visual communicators.

Consider kindergarten: crayons, finger paints,

and clay propelled our expression, not word

processors or spreadsheets.

Unfortunately, somewhere, at some time, someone prob-

ably told you that you weren’t very good at drawing. And,

after looking around and comparing yourself to other kids

in the classroom, you probably consented, threw in the

towel, and decided that piano lessons or football might

prove a better bet for primary education glory.

Now, as an adult, you may not try anymore—at least in

the visual realm. This is ironic considering that your

employers and colleagues assess you by how well you

communicate—a skill that is reflected in annual reviews,

pay increases, promotions, and even your popularity.

Effective communication is a job requirement now,

whether you’re trying to beat competitors, communicate

vision, demonstrate thought leadership, raise capital,

or otherwise change the world. And like it or not, your

profession likely requires you to communicate using

a visual tool, regardless of your proficiency or training

in this medium. Business schools in particular drill their

students in management, accounting, and technology,

but few offer anything approaching Design 101