We use powerpoint to create presentations that have lots of images for a variety of purposes.  Curatorial assistants create them for curators to discuss their latest project both internally and externally; we use them to share internally the works in a forthcoming exhibition; and multiple other uses.  However lately the powerpoint files have become too large and our computers are crashing; our IT staff has given us guidelines for powerpoint including image size but sometimes we have needs that make it difficult for us to abide by the guidelines.  We are looking for alternative software to create image presentations. We have recently subscribed to ArtStor and they have a component that allows the user to build a digital image presentation but either we need to travel with our own laptops or we need to make sure the software is downloaded to the computer equipment we are using (awkward, not always possible).  We have also learned about the open source software MDID created by James Madison. Are there any other programs that we shoudl be aware of or, is there a specific way that we should be creating presentations in PP to stop this type of file issue (the images are low resolution but the quantity of them makes the file unwieldy)? Additionally, we are curious as to whether or not your staff has been using ArtStor and what the issues have been if any?

Many appreciative thanks for your time in responding,

Michelle Boardman

Director of Creative Services

The Baltimore Museum of Art