A good-looking slide is only the starting point.

An AI-generated visual can give us a useful starting point. When I’m working it into a presentation, I’m also thinking about the message, the brand and what happens when someone needs to make a change.

1. 01

   Decide what the audience needs to understand

   I’d start with the point the slide needs to make. Check that the headline, diagram and supporting detail help explain it. A polished visual still needs a clear job in the story.

2. 02

   Make important content editable

   If someone needs to change a label or update a number, text flattened into an image can get in the way. I’d rebuild the parts that need editing and check that we’ve preserved their meaning.

3. 03

   Give the deck a consistent foundation

   I’d check the current brand guidance alongside the supplied template. Agree the type, colours and heading treatment, then apply them consistently so the slides feel part of the same presentation.

4. 04

   Keep the details that help explain the subject

   An interface illustration may need a different treatment from the surrounding slide text. I’d look at what those details communicate before changing them, and agree any exceptions with the person responsible for the brand.

5. 05

   Agree a few slides before extending the treatment

   I’d share a small set that includes a straightforward slide and a more demanding example. Check the approach together before applying it to the rest, then review the whole deck for consistency and readability.