In the ever-expanding universe of audio and web conferencing services, Twiddla, a free white board and audio conferencing tool is now in final beta and available for public use. Twiddla does not require sign-ups and users can instantly turn any website, photo, or graphic into a canvas for instant mark-up and discussion.

Winner of this year’s Technical Achievement award at the SXSW festival, Twiddla doesn’t have the features of more robust interactive web conferencing services, but its ease of use and quick setup make it a stand-out.

As soon as you launch Twiddla, you are presented with a blank whiteboard, which allows you to draw shapes, lines, and text boxes, or even upload media and load external websites to share with your meeting participants. The Twiddla user’s drawings are then overlaid on the media file/website. Another extremely useful feature of Twiddla is that you can start a voice chat using your computer’s on-board microphone enabling an instant audio web conference call.

A PowerPoint Presentation is a great way to enhance an online presentation or web conference.

Follow these easy tips for your most effective online meetings.

• Use clear, large, easy to read fonts. Make sure the font is large enough for the reader and the style clear and easy to read. To make sure the font is large enough, print out the paper and put it on the floor. If you can read it while standing, your readers should be able to see it while viewing the presentation.
• Use a descriptive introductory slide. You may also use a welcome slide to display as the audience is logging on to the session. Include a title and any other pertinent information, such as the company name and contact information.
• Use clear titles throughout the PowerPoint presentation.
• Use the templates provided to develop a clear, organized presentation.
• Provide only key points on your slides, not your entire presentation.
• Use colors that work well together and be careful with dark colors on a dark background (ie. red text on a black background). They can be hard to read.
• Keep your effects to a minimum so that your audience can focus on your message.
• Use graphs, pictures and charts to enhance your PowerPoint presentation.
• Speak clearly and with enthusiasm.
• Keep your presentation organized. Practice through the PowerPoint presentation before presenting to make sure all the points are clear and organized.
• Invite questions at the end of your presentation. If appropriate, have a slide designating a time for a question and answer period at the end of your presentation. With the extra 15 minutes you are given at the end of your presentation, you can be sure to answer all your participants’ questions without feeling rushed.
• Close with your contact information or a survey.  Make sure there is a take away from your presentation.
• Practice, practice, practice. Make sure when the time comes to present, you’re ready!