Prezi.com- beautiful, effective design
Prezi is a cloud based presentation software that has
assumed an innovative, fresh and dynamic approach to visual presentations.
Prezi offers an infinite canvas for users to place images, text, videos, audio
and more to convey a story while their audience irresistibly remains engaged
throughout the journey. Not only does the software use a single canvas rather
than traditional slides, the canvas implements zoom-ability. After users designate
a path for their presentation to follow, Prezi functions by zooming in and out,
to the sides, and up or down to each point which easily creates the illusion of
physically traveling various directions and elevations in space. In combination
with fade-in effects, an abundance of symbols and shapes and the capability to
insert voice-overs along with background and/or foreground images, Prezi can
achieve an effective flow for narratives, lessons or information to relay
itself.
One downfall I’ve detected is a result of ineffective use
of the software where countless and constant zooms in multiple directions and
distances causes a bit of motion sickness for the viewer. I find it interesting
that the nature of Prezi that can make it appear incredibly superior also has
the potential to cause the viewer physical discomfort. Luckily, it is within
the users control to manage the types and amounts of zooms that occur
throughout their story as to intrigue, rather than upset, their audience. Also,
although the interface is quite user friendly, I think this aspect could be
enhanced even more so to reduce the amount of tutorials users need to review to
make the most of the software. I do believe that once one understands how to
use the basic tools, Prezi is easily executed. I am in the process of
completely a fully developed Prezi during which I will likely encounter more
pros and cons with the software.
Prezi can solve the epidemic (dramatic, I know) of
static, one-dimensional, snooze-worthy presentations and instead, make the
ideas interactive and fun to explore for everyone involved. Businesses,
professionals, teachers, students, and virtually anyone who finds a need to
relay an idea or set of ideas can benefit immensely from learning more about
how to use it best. Almost immediately, everyone watching a good Prezi will
notice the elegant and professional impression it provides.
Prezi’s success is evident as they have gained over a
million new users a month and report 1+ prezi
creations a second.
Some quotes from Prezi.com are:
“Prezi is helping reinvent the art of presentation.
Farewell, one-dimensional thinking. Welcome instead the power of
inter-connection, flexibility, and the unexpected 'Aha!'” –Chris Anderson, TED
Curator
"A marvelous approach to the visualization of
information." –Rob Campbell, Founder, PowerPoint
Oh, and signing up for Prezi is fast and FREE and we
could all use a couple more free things in life.