There are numerous ways to present business data and information, meaning business and team leaders have to think carefully about the presentation options they pick. It should fit the purpose it is being used for while allowing them to present information in the best way possible. One of the simplest visualization tools for businesses and teams is a pyramid. Everyone is familiar with the shape, but few people know how to use pyramid diagrams effectively for presentations.
Decide on the Level of Complexity
You might be surprised to learn there are different complexity levels when creating pyramid diagrams. This complexity stems from the design and the data to be presented. Since they are used to visualize hierarchical data or step-by-step processes, you could start with a simple triangle and divide it to show the different data levels or steps.
Using a pyramid template gives you a great starting point for this while allowing you to add all the data you need for your presentation. At a basic level, you should at least add labels to the different levels in your diagram. Once done, you can add notes, additional labels, and comments to make it more understandable from a glance.
Sort the Information
Once you have settled on the basic layout and level of complexity, it is time to organize your information. Start with a list of everything you will add to the diagram. This could be personnel, departments, sales data, steps, processes, stories, and anything else you need to visualize.
Categorize this information to make it much easier to add. Also, carefully consider where to add each piece of information to ensure it fits well within the hierarchical structure of your pyramid diagram.
Use Colors to Show Hierarchy
You should think of different colors to represent each step or category in your pyramid diagram because each should have a different color for easier visualization. Depending on the use case, you can use the same color but with different intensities for each level.
Think of a pyramid diagram where the higher you go, the more critical the information or decisions are at each level. You could start with a mild color and increase the intensity as you move upwards so that you end up with the top tier being a saturated hue.
Add Symbols to Enhance Your Presentation
In addition to colors, symbols can make your pyramid diagram more effective. Think about the data or information you want to present and pick symbols that represent each tier as effectively as possible.
Once you do, create a legend alongside the pyramid to show what each symbol means or represents. You do not want people guessing because that will create mental load that can detach them from the presentation as they try to figure things out.
Pyramid diagrams are excellent tools for presenting hierarchical data or step-by-step processes. They have to be designed well to be effective, and fortunately, there are simple techniques you can use to ensure this. Beyond the design, always keep in mind what the presentation is about when creating these visual tools so they serve their function as intended.
