Considerations 7

Initial considerations - Location
Find out where the presentation is to be held. Make the necessary travel arrangements to get there in good time.

Try to visit the location and especially the room where the presentation will take place. This will help you with planning. You may need to consider:

• The shape of the room for the proposed seating arrangements

• The proximity of the audience for using visual aids

• The positioning of equipment and power sockets

Seating Patterns

'U' Shape
Advantages: Presenter more accessible; Engaging as you can walk into the audience; Encourages interaction and discussion.
Disadvantages: Best for small-medium groups; Vision of some audience members may be blocked by others; Side audience can get neck ache by looking to the front.

Lecture Style
Advantages: Good visibility for both presenter and audience; Formal, often with professional audio/visual equipment; Best use of space for larger audiences.
Disadvantages: Hard to engage audience and support genuine interaction; Can be intimidating for the presenter; Too formal for small groups.

Informal
Advantages: Easier to work with small teams; Supports interactions and discussions; Engaging as you can walk around the room.
Disadvantages: Vision of some audience members may be blocked by others; Encourages side chatter; Can encourage a group mentality and hinder collective participation.

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