When using paper handouts, the speaker should explicitly refer to specific areas of it so that it is easy for the listener to locate while following the speech. The worry that the visual aid will be more of a distraction than aid to the speech is the prime concern concerning this issue. This worry that it will indeed be more of a distraction than aid to the speech is the prime concern about visual aids. A speaker can prevent this problem by being prepared with video equipment and anything that needs to be taped up or handed out, well ahead of the speaking time. The speaker should also practice the speech with the visual aid, rather than assume that it will be the easiest part.
Visual aids are of course part of the endless possibilities of delivery of public speeches.
When used effectively, they are capable of audience stimulation, aiding in speech clarity and comprehensibility. They are what keeps the audience from falling asleep and judges from crying in boredom.