In short
A how it works slide walks through the product in two to four steps from the customer’s point of view, such as sign up, connect, get results. Each step gets a short label, one line of explanation and an icon or screenshot. It should take less than ten seconds to understand.
Some products are obvious from a screenshot; many are not. The how it works slide removes confusion by showing the customer journey in a few simple steps.
What to include
- Step 1: how the customer starts (sign up, install, order).
- Step 2: the key action the product performs.
- Step 3: what the customer gets.
- Optional step 4: what happens next, such as repeat use or sharing.
When to skip it
If the solution slide already makes the product obvious, merge the two. Every slide should earn its place.
Common mistakes
- Showing the system architecture instead of the customer journey.
- More than five steps, which makes the product look complicated.
- Jargon in step labels.
Frequently asked questions
Is the how it works slide necessary?
No. Use it when the product is new, technical or has several parties, such as a marketplace. Otherwise fold it into the solution slide.
Written by Gachi Foundation, a non-profit in Jharkhand, India. All pitch deck resources.