In addition to information about your audience, you should also learn about the location and setting of your presentation. For example, how big is the room? How will the room be set up? What audio-visual equipment is available?

The right physical arrangements can go a long way toward ensuring your success. Here is some specific advice:

• Visit the room ahead of time. Check the seating arrangements, your own speaker’s position, and anything else in the environment that will make a difference to you. If you have recommendations for changes, don’t be shy; make them; then do your best to see they get attended to.
• Make sure you have the audio-visual equipment you need. Learn how it works; make sure it is working. Try it out a few days before your presentation, and just before the presentation itself, to reduce the chance of errors.