Why Master Slides Are Holding You Back (And What to Do Instead)

If you’ve ever tried using master slides in Google Slides, you’ve probably run into their biggest limitation: they lock everything in place (unlike master slides in PowerPoint, which are way more flexible). You can set colors, fonts, and a logo in the corner, but that’s about it.
No flexibility with layouts, no unique data visualizations, no custom containers. If you’re building a high-stakes deck, whether for investors, internal stakeholders, or a keynote, this just doesn’t cut it.
A Better Way to Build Your Deck
Instead of rigid master slides, at our presentation design agency, we’re usually using a structured Google Slides deck template with a clear framework. Here’s why:
- Faster, easier customization. Edit individual slides without breaking the entire deck.
- Better collaboration. Each team member can work on their own copy without overriding key design elements.
- More creative control. Use layouts, charts, and visuals that actually support your message.
- Easier reuse. Pull slides into different decks without dealing with locked elements.
- Quicker turnaround. No need to fight the template, just update what you need and go.
If you’re pitching investors, aligning teams, or explaining complex ideas, your slides should work for you, not slow you down. That’s what we help with, no matter what tool you use: PPT, Google Slides, Keynote or Figma.
For a real-world example, check out how we helped a cybersecurity client revamp their pitch deck to grab the attention of CTOs and CSOs right from the first slide in our case study.
Let’s talk.

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- This is some text inside of a div block.lay out the facts clearly and compellingly. Use data to establish the ground reality, but remember that facts alone are like the individual strands of a tapestry—necessary but not complete.