Flevy Management Insights Q&A
How to present problem and solution effectively in a PPT?


This article provides a detailed response to: How to present problem and solution effectively in a PPT? For a comprehensive understanding of Presentation Delivery, we also include relevant case studies for further reading and links to Presentation Delivery best practice resources.

TLDR Effectively presenting problems and solutions in a PPT involves clear articulation, strategic context, data support, risk mitigation, and a strong call to action.

Reading time: 5 minutes

Before we begin, let's review some important management concepts, as they related to this question.

What does Effective Problem Definition mean?
What does Strategic Context Framing mean?
What does Data-Driven Solution Justification mean?
What does Risk Mitigation Strategies mean?


Presenting a problem and solution in a PowerPoint (PPT) presentation requires a strategic approach to ensure clarity, engagement, and persuasiveness. For C-level executives, time is of the essence, and presentations must cut to the chase with compelling data and actionable insights. The goal is to articulate the challenge your organization faces and present a well-considered solution that aligns with your strategic objectives.

Start with a clear definition of the problem. This section should be concise yet comprehensive, providing enough context to understand the issue without delving into unnecessary details. Use data to underscore the significance of the problem. For instance, a report from McKinsey might highlight that companies embracing digital transformation can see a 45% revenue growth. If your problem relates to lagging in digital adoption, such statistics make the case for urgency and relevance. This approach not only sets the stage but also hooks your audience with the gravity of the situation.

Next, frame the problem within a broader strategic context. This helps in showcasing the problem not as an isolated incident but as a critical barrier to Strategic Planning, Digital Transformation, or Operational Excellence. Utilizing a framework can be particularly effective here. For example, applying the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis or Porter's Five Forces can help in systematically breaking down the problem and its implications on your organization's strategy. This structured approach aids in maintaining the focus of your presentation and ensures that the problem is understood in its entirety.

Transitioning from problem to solution requires a shift in tone from diagnostic to prescriptive. Here, clarity and feasibility of your proposed solution are paramount. The solution should be presented as a natural progression from the problem, logically addressing the issues outlined earlier. It's beneficial to use a template or model that outlines the steps, resources required, and expected outcomes. For instance, a roadmap or a Gantt chart can visually represent the timeline and key milestones of your solution, making it easier for your audience to grasp the plan and its scope.

Building a Compelling Case for Your Solution

Supporting your solution with data and real-world examples enhances its credibility. Cite case studies or success stories from reputable sources that demonstrate the effectiveness of similar strategies. For example, referencing a case study from Bain & Company that illustrates how a particular strategy led to a 20% increase in operational efficiency for a similar organization can be very persuasive. These examples serve as evidence that your solution is not just theoretical but practical and achievable.

It's also crucial to address potential risks and mitigation strategies. No solution is without its challenges, and acknowledging these upfront demonstrates thoroughness and foresight. Outline the main risks and provide a clear strategy for how these can be managed or mitigated. This part of the presentation reassures your audience that you have considered the full spectrum of factors involved in implementing the solution.

Finally, illustrate the benefits of your solution in quantifiable terms. This could be in the form of cost savings, revenue growth, market share expansion, or other relevant metrics. The key is to connect these benefits directly to the strategic goals of the organization. Demonstrating a clear ROI (Return on Investment) is essential to gaining buy-in from C-level executives. Make sure to present this information succinctly, using charts or graphs for easy comprehension.

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Engaging Your Audience

To keep your audience engaged, your presentation style should be dynamic and interactive. This means avoiding dense text slides and instead using visuals, such as infographics, charts, and videos, to convey your message. Each slide should have a clear takeaway and contribute directly to building your argument.

Encourage questions and discussions throughout the presentation. This not only keeps the audience engaged but also allows you to clarify and expand on key points. Being prepared to dive deeper into any aspect of your problem or solution shows confidence and mastery of the subject matter.

Lastly, conclude your presentation with a clear call to action. What do you want your audience to do next? Whether it's approving a budget, initiating a project, or simply agreeing to a follow-up meeting, be explicit about the next steps. This ensures that your presentation translates into action and moves the organization closer to resolving the problem and implementing the solution. In presenting problem and solution in a PPT, the effectiveness lies in your ability to articulate the issue clearly, propose a logical and actionable solution, and demonstrate its alignment with the organization's strategic goals. By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling presentation that commands attention, persuades your audience, and drives action.

Best Practices in Presentation Delivery

Here are best practices relevant to Presentation Delivery from the Flevy Marketplace. View all our Presentation Delivery materials here.

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Explore all of our best practices in: Presentation Delivery

Presentation Delivery Case Studies

For a practical understanding of Presentation Delivery, take a look at these case studies.

Ecommerce Platform's Presentation Delivery Refinement

Scenario: The organization in question operates within the ecommerce industry, specializing in direct-to-consumer sales.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Presentation Delivery for Agritech Firm in North America

Scenario: The organization specializes in developing innovative agricultural technologies and has recently expanded its operations, experiencing a surge in the need for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and investors.

Read Full Case Study

AgriTech Firm's Market Expansion Strategy in Precision Agriculture

Scenario: An AgriTech firm specializing in precision agriculture technologies is facing challenges in effectively delivering presentations to potential investors and key stakeholders.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Presentation Delivery for Live Events Industry

Scenario: The company, a prominent player in the live events sector, is facing significant challenges with its Presentation Delivery system.

Read Full Case Study

Explore all Flevy Management Case Studies

Related Questions

Here are our additional questions you may be interested in.

What strategies can leaders employ to maintain audience engagement during longer presentations?
Leaders can maintain audience engagement in longer presentations by employing Interactive Engagement Techniques, utilizing Advanced Technology, and structuring content effectively, supported by real-world examples and research. [Read full explanation]
In what ways can executives leverage AI and machine learning to enhance presentation delivery?
Executives can leverage AI and ML for Dynamic and Interactive Presentations, Enhanced Data Visualization and Analysis, and Improved Speaker Performance and Audience Engagement, transforming stakeholder communication. [Read full explanation]
How can executives ensure their presentations remain impactful in a virtual or hybrid work environment?
Executives can maintain impactful presentations in virtual or hybrid environments by leveraging Technology and Interactive Tools, adapting Content and Delivery for virtual audiences, and building a strong Virtual Presence and Engagement Strategy to foster engagement and drive results. [Read full explanation]
How to make PowerPoint presentations engaging?
Make PowerPoint presentations engaging by understanding your audience, using effective data visualization, storytelling, interactivity, and impactful design principles. [Read full explanation]
How can leaders effectively measure the impact and effectiveness of their presentations post-delivery?
Leaders can measure presentation impact through Immediate Feedback Collection, Engagement Metrics Analysis, and assessing Behavioral Changes, crucial for refining communication strategies and driving desired actions. [Read full explanation]
What are the best practices for crafting impactful executive PowerPoint presentations?
Craft impactful executive PowerPoint presentations by focusing on Audience Insight, simplicity, logical structure, consistent design, storytelling, and effective delivery. [Read full explanation]

Source: Executive Q&A: Presentation Delivery Questions, Flevy Management Insights, 2024


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