What do you do if your whiteboard tools are failing to enhance your virtual presentations?

1 Choose the right tool

When selecting a whiteboard tool, there are many factors to consider. Think about the size and type of your audience, the features and functions you need, and the compatibility and accessibility of the tool. For instance, if you need a tool that allows multiple participants to join, edit, and comment on the whiteboard, consider a more advanced collaboration platform. If you prefer more control and privacy, select a tool that has various shapes, colors, and fonts. Additionally, if you need a tool that works well with presentation software such as Zoom or PowerPoint, make sure it is compatible. Finally, if you want a tool that can be accessed from any device, look for one that is accessible from tablets, smartphones, or laptops.

2 Test and practice

Before your presentation, it is essential to test and practice using your whiteboard tool to avoid any technical issues. This will help you become familiar with the features and functions of the tool, such as how to zoom, erase, undo, and save. To do this, check your internet connection and bandwidth for a stable and fast connection that can support your whiteboard tool and presentation software. Additionally, make sure you have a device that can run your whiteboard tool smoothly and a stylus or mouse that can draw accurately and comfortably. You should also check your settings and permissions to share screen, audio, and video with your audience. Finally, practice your presentation with the whiteboard tool to ensure you know how to switch between slides and whiteboard, use annotations and highlights, as well as manage feedback and questions from the audience.

3 Adapt and improvise

The third step is to adapt and improvise if your whiteboard tool fails during your presentation. Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong and you may lose access to your whiteboard tool or encounter some glitches. To be prepared for such an eventuality, have a backup plan with slides or documents that can replace or supplement your whiteboard content. Additionally, have some offline activities or exercises that can keep your audience involved and interested. When communicating with your audience, explain what is happening and how you are going to proceed. Apologize for any inconvenience and ask for their patience and understanding. You can also use humor or storytelling to lighten the mood and maintain rapport. If possible, use other tools or resources that can help you illustrate your ideas or facilitate collaboration. For example, a physical whiteboard, a presentation software with chat or poll features, or an online platform with a shared document or spreadsheet.

4 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?