Effective Messaging: Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Approaches


This PPT slide, part of the 39-slide Structured Thinking 101: Clarity Through Storylines PowerPoint presentation, emphasizes the importance of structuring messages effectively to save time and enhance clarity. It presents two primary approaches: top-down and bottom-up thinking. The top-down method is highlighted as a more efficient strategy, suggesting that it can streamline the messaging process and minimize gaps in understanding. This approach encourages users to start with the main message, which serves as a focal point, and then develop supporting details beneath it.

On the other hand, the bottom-up approach is presented as a fallback option. This method involves brainstorming ideas without a clear overarching message initially. It suggests that if clarity is lacking at the higher level, one should first outline their thoughts and then refine them to align with the desired outcome.

The slide also hints at the utility of patterns in messaging. It encourages users to refer to examples provided in subsequent pages to guide their framing process. This practical advice aims to help users visualize their messaging structure before delving into specifics.

The visual elements, including the diagrams, reinforce the concepts discussed. The top-down approach is depicted as a funnel leading to the main message, while the bottom-up method is shown as a more scattered process. This contrast visually underscores the efficiency of the top-down strategy.

Overall, the slide serves as a practical guide for executives looking to enhance their communication effectiveness. It offers actionable insights that can be directly applied to improve clarity and coherence in messaging.



This slide is part of the Structured Thinking 101: Clarity Through Storylines PowerPoint presentation.

McKinsey 3 years on staff, 15 years freelance trainer & coach | Barbara Minto Approved | BCG training designer | Coaches at FX10 and ASX 10 | Startup founder | Author | C-suite Coach.

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