Free Speech

What our CEOs had to say: "Useful for people who are using visual aids such as PowerPoint." "Appealing, simple, and functional" but "somewhat industrial looking." "OK on sales topics [but] does not contain that much information on speech development." One tester pointed out that the author list includes renowned experts like Marjorie Brody and Zig Ziglar, plus contact information if you want to follow up with anyone.

What you should know: Don't assume that you'll find information only about PowerPoint presentations. The site has a broad range of articles on topics ranging from how to conquer the fear of public speaking to how to moderate a panel.

Presenters University (www.presentersuniversity.com)
What it's good for: Beginners. The "courses" are divided into three parts -- content, delivery, and visual aids -- and include many articles on each subject. The site also links to downloads of some of the latest software and speaking aids, such as PowerPlugs products, which bring TV-style effects to presentations, and SmartSound, which enables you to create music sound tracks.

Don't waste your time if: You need anything more than cursory information.

What our CEOs had to say: "If you want to take advantage of some of the downloads, you have to give something back," said one, referring to personal information that vendors often request. Another tester found the site "functional yet weak on content."

What you should know: The site is sponsored by InFocus Corp., a manufacturer of digital projectors.

Allyn & Bacon Public Speaking Website (www.abacon.com/pubspeak)
What it's good for: Beginners to professionals. The site provides basic steps on how to research a topic, with links to search tools, advocacy groups, publications, and legal and government sources. More-advanced speakers can use an interactive exercise to draw a psychographic profile of their intended audience.

Don't waste your time if: You lose patience easily. Finding information required work, one reviewer said.

What our CEOs had to say: "Good teaching site," commented one reviewer. Another tester said that the site provided good basic steps for beginners by breaking the speaking process into these categories: assess, analyze, research, organize, and deliver. "The interactive exercises, notes from the instructor, real audio, and resources make this one a winner," said that reviewer.

What you should know: Allyn & Bacon is a publisher of professional resources and college textbooks, which may be why some of the material is geared toward teachers of public speaking.

Our panelists
Bruce Helmer is president of Wealth Enhancement Group, based in Wayzata, Minn. He's a frequent lecturer on personal financial issues and has developed and taught courses to financial professionals.

Bill Imada is president and CEO of Imada Wong Communications Group Inc., a Los Angeles-based firm that specializes in marketing to the Asian-Pacific community in the United States. He speaks about ethnic marketing and communications.

Joyce Weiss is a motivational speaker, author, and consultant based in West Bloomfield, Mich. She's the author of Full Speed Ahead: Become Driven by Change and Take the Ride of Your Life!

Rachael King is a freelance writer based in Glen Ridge, N.J.

The savvy entrepreneur's guide to online public-speaking sites

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