Steering Committee Presentation

When we have to make a difficult presentation to a steering committee or other senior group in authority, being clear and organized is essential to achieving our goals. A model for presentation is as follows.

1. Frame the problem or change required: Be specific and honest, using words of confidence rather than fear
2. Frame the actions already taken to solve the problem or advance change: Be precise and concise, convey information without excessive details
3. Instill confidence that problems can be solved by the project team or manager: Describe the approach to problem solving, give brief examples of problems already solved, and explain how current problems will be addressed
4. Ask for support or authority: Request only what is needed, maintaining the separate roles of the steering committee, project manager and project team

This presentation model requires us to spend time analyzing the issues that make up our problem, which in itself leads to better solutions and actions. Involving the steering committee is critical to overall support of the project - show the members respect by clearly presenting information and requests that align with their level of authority. If they want more detail, they will ask questions.