Presenting Complex Information August 28, 2009
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This past week I spent two days coaching executives at Pacific Northwest National Laboratories. PNNL is one of our 9 national laboratories and their mission is to focus on Energy, the Environment, National Security and to strengthen U.S. scientific foundations for innovation.
I braided three colorful cords together to demonstrate the word complex. Com means ‘with’ or ‘together’ and plectere means ‘to braid.’ I explained to my clients when they give complex information, it’s if they are braiding together an intricate pattern with various strands that seem to constantly appear and disappear. Many of the elements stay hidden. The colorful cords can be combined and recombined in a changing texture that is anything but simple. Since the speakers have limited time in their presentations and reams of information, they have to decide what is most important to show. They shouldn’t simplify their information to the extent people erroneously believe they really have an in-depth understanding but translate complex concepts in a way that empowers their listeners with knowledge. The cords, by themselves, are often confusing and get tangled. It’s the presenter’s job to weave the strands together so they have strength, are understandable and useful to their audience.
