Try to resist the tempation to over-do PowerPoint effects

I see them more and more. A bullet point presentation with now and then a spectacularly formated PowerPoint object inserted. Bevels, textures, drop shadows, 3D rotations, lighting angles, they have it all.

Try to resist it. Like with data charts, the fact that you have the ability to use sophisticated effects does not mean that you have to use them.

Oh, one more thing. If you hired a professional presentation designer, and the only thing she does is apply 3D and lighting effects to your diagrams, it is time to find another one.