How do you present network design decisions to senior management?

1 Know your audience

The first step in presenting network design decisions is to know your audience and their expectations. Senior management may have different backgrounds, perspectives, and priorities than network planners, so you need to tailor your presentation accordingly. For example, some senior managers may be more interested in the financial impact of the network design, while others may focus on the customer satisfaction or the competitive advantage. You should also anticipate the questions and concerns that senior management may have, and prepare your answers and evidence in advance.

2 Use a clear structure

The second step in presenting network design decisions is to use a clear structure that guides the audience through your logic and reasoning. A common structure for network design presentations includes an introduction to provide the context and objectives of the project, as well as to highlight the main changes and benefits of the proposed network. Additionally, explain the data sources, tools, models, and criteria used to design the network and how they reflect market demand and airline strategy. Show the results of the network design in terms of key performance indicators such as revenue, costs, profitability, market share, load factor, connectivity, etc. using graphs, tables, and maps to illustrate your findings and compare them with current or alternative scenarios. Summarize your main recommendations and action points for implementing the network design with a timeline and budget for execution. Finally, recap the main points and benefits of the network design while inviting feedback and questions from senior management.

3 Use simple language

The third step in presenting network design decisions is to use simple and concise language that avoids jargon and technical terms. You should explain any acronyms or concepts that may not be familiar to senior management, and use examples and analogies to illustrate your points. You should also avoid using too many numbers or details that may confuse or overwhelm the audience, and focus on the main messages and insights that you want to convey.

4 Use visual aids

The fourth step in presenting network design decisions is to use visual aids that complement and enhance your verbal presentation. Visual aids can be used to capture the attention of the audience, simplify complex concepts, highlight trends and patterns, compare and contrast different options, and emphasize key points and conclusions. Examples of visual aids that you may use include maps to show geographic coverage and distribution, graphs to show relationships and correlations between variables, tables to display numerical data and calculations, charts to break down the composition of the network, and images to demonstrate branding and marketing aspects.

5 Engage the audience

The fifth step in presenting network design decisions is to engage the audience and encourage their participation and feedback. You can do this by asking open-ended questions that invite the audience to share their opinions, experiences, or suggestions about the network design. Additionally, seek feedback on specific aspects of the network design such as the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or threats. It's important to acknowledge and appreciate the comments and inputs from the audience, addressing them respectfully and constructively. Furthermore, show enthusiasm and passion for the network design while conveying confidence and credibility in your presentation.

6 Follow up

The sixth and final step in presenting network design decisions is to follow up with senior management and ensure that they have understood and accepted your proposal. To do this, you should send a summary of the presentation and the main points and recommendations, as well as any supporting documents or materials. Additionally, ask for approval or endorsement of the network design, and clarify any doubts or objections that they may have. It is also important to communicate the progress and status of the network design implementation, as well as report any challenges or achievements that you encounter. Finally, seek feedback on the performance and impact of the network design, and identify any areas for improvement or adjustment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?