How to set up a 16:9 and 4:3 version of the same PowerPoint template
How to set up a 16:9 and 4:3 version of the same PowerPoint template
Design the 16:9 widescreen version first, since it is now the standard, then create a separate 4:3 file and adjust each layout deliberately rather than using PowerPoint's automatic resize. Auto-scaling stretches and shifts elements, so logos distort and spacing breaks. Two controlled files, each laid out properly for its shape, keep the design intact in both aspect ratios.
Most presentations are 16:9 today, but some venues, older screens and certain government settings still require 4:3, so organisations often need both.
Why not just change the slide size?
When you switch a finished 16:9 deck to 4:3, PowerPoint asks whether to maximise or scale down, and either way it forces existing content into the new proportions. Images can stretch, text boxes overlap, and the careful spacing of the original is lost. The taller, narrower 4:3 shape genuinely needs different positioning, not a squeezed copy.
Auto-resize is fine for a rough internal deck. For a brand template that has to look right, it is not enough.
How do you build the second version properly?
Start the 4:3 file from the same theme so colours and fonts match, then rework the slide master and layouts for the new proportions. Reposition logos, resize image placeholders and adjust text areas so each layout looks designed for 4:3 rather than inherited from widescreen. The two templates share a brand but have their own geometry.
Keep the layout names identical across both files so staff recognise the same structure whichever version they open.
How do you keep the two in sync?
Treat them as a pair. When the brand updates, update both files, since they do not share a single master. Keep them clearly named, such as Brand Template 16:9 and Brand Template 4:3, so people pick the right one for the venue.
At Ideaseed we deliver both ratios for clients who still face 4:3 requirements, building each as its own controlled template rather than relying on auto-scaling, so a deck looks intentional whether it runs on a modern widescreen or an older projector.
To support both aspect ratios, design the 16:9 version first and build a separate, hand-adjusted 4:3 file from the same theme. Two controlled templates protect the design far better than letting PowerPoint resize one into the other.
For matched widescreen and standard templates, see our presentation design service or request a free health check at ideaseed.com.au/questionnaire.
Jim Johnston
Co-Founder & Microsoft Office Template and Automation Specialist
It was a huge success. Investors commented that the presentation was excellent.
Westpac
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It was a huge success. Investors commented that the presentation was excellent.
Westpac
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It was a huge success. Investors commented that the presentation was excellent.
Westpac
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It was a huge success. Investors commented that the presentation was excellent.
Westpac
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Red Rooster
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Red Rooster
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Red Rooster
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Red Rooster
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Frasers Property
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Frasers Property
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Frasers Property
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Frasers Property
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CSL
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CSL
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WOW! People have looked like a cartoon when it’s been shown to them – they are that amazed that PPT can look so good and function so easily!
CSL
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WOW! People have looked like a cartoon when it’s been shown to them – they are that amazed that PPT can look so good and function so easily!
CSL
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Dept of Industry, Innovation, and Science
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Dept of Industry, Innovation, and Science
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I had an excellent experience working with you. There aren't many suppliers like you guys out there, who truly know how to work with design and Microsoft products.
Dept of Industry, Innovation, and Science
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I had an excellent experience working with you. There aren't many suppliers like you guys out there, who truly know how to work with design and Microsoft products.
Dept of Industry, Innovation, and Science
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Allianz
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Allianz
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Allianz
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Allianz
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Sydney Water
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Thank you! We have installed and launched and the feedback so far is great! A big thanks to the team on such an impressive product.
Sydney Water
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Thank you! We have installed and launched and the feedback so far is great! A big thanks to the team on such an impressive product.
Sydney Water
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Downer EDI
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Thank you for pulling out all the stops! It’s great to see that our staff are *ACTUALLY* using the templates!!
Downer EDI
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Thank you for pulling out all the stops! It’s great to see that our staff are *ACTUALLY* using the templates!!
Downer EDI
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Thank you for pulling out all the stops! It’s great to see that our staff are *ACTUALLY* using the templates!!
Downer EDI
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ACMA
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ACMA
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ACMA
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Modern Dental Pacific
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Modern Dental Pacific
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Their communication with us has always been impeccable, which is a major contributor to the success of our many projects with them.
Modern Dental Pacific
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Their communication with us has always been impeccable, which is a major contributor to the success of our many projects with them.
Modern Dental Pacific
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I can only imagine this whole pitch process would have been 10 times crazier without your help. Your suggestions and recommendations were great, and insightful. Thank you!
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CBRE
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Your attention to detail and commitment to doing really high quality, technically optimised work, along with your general care-factor overall, is appreciated.
Investa
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Your attention to detail and commitment to doing really high quality, technically optimised work, along with your general care-factor overall, is appreciated.
Investa
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Investa
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Charter Hall
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Charter Hall
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Charter Hall
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John Holland
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John Holland
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John Holland
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BT Financial
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BT Financial
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American Express
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American Express
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American Express
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The response to the templates has been overwhelmingly positive, which is great! Thank you!
Knight Frank
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The response to the templates has been overwhelmingly positive, which is great! Thank you!
Knight Frank
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It’s been a pleasure working with you. Thank you for your responsiveness and ability to support all that we’ve asked you for. We’ve got your details now, so just know that our paths will cross again!
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It’s been a pleasure working with you. Thank you for your responsiveness and ability to support all that we’ve asked you for. We’ve got your details now, so just know that our paths will cross again!
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Orro
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Orro
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We couldn’t be more pleased with our suite of templates delivered by Ideaseed. Beautifully designed, thoughtfully constructed, and speedily delivered. It’s been wonderful (and so simple) working with you.
Orro
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Orro
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Southern Cross Dental
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Southern Cross Dental
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Southern Cross Dental
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Southern Cross Dental
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Australian Super
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Australian Super
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Australian Super
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Australian Super
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iseek
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iseek
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Ideaseed were an absolute pleasure to partner with. They provided exceptional service and communication throughout the process and continue to support us.
iseek
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Ideaseed were an absolute pleasure to partner with. They provided exceptional service and communication throughout the process and continue to support us.
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The ideaseed difference
We’re fast. Really fast
We know time is of the essence, so we pride ourselves on quick, efficient delivery without sacrificing quality. Whether you have a tight deadline or need a last-minute update, our team is committed to delivering polished results within even the tightest timeframe.
We get AI
AI is changing how teams work. We build templates that give AI the best possible foundation - clean layouts, properly styled headings, and logical formatting that AI can actually read and use. Not all templates are equal when AI enters the room. Ours are built ready.
We’re reliable. Always
Our clients trust us because we consistently deliver beautiful, high-quality work. We understand the importance of dependable tools in your business, and we never compromise on quality or functionality.
We go the extra mile
We don’t just meet expectations; we exceed them. We take the time to understand your needs and find creative, tailored solutions that make your work easier and more effective. Our commitment to going above and beyond means you get more than just a template — you get a partner who genuinely cares about your success.