#InsideIT

We’ve all been there. You’re presenting to a group and you ask a question, only to be met with silence. Or you’re running a virtual meeting and wondering if anyone is actually listening behind the muted microphones and blank cameras.

Whether you’re teaching a class, running a team meeting, hosting a research symposium, or leading a townhall, it helps to know what your audience is thinking. That’s where live polling tools like Slido and Microsoft Forms come in.

At KAUST, both tools are freely available and can be used to gather instant input, ask questions, and bring your sessions to life.

Why Bother with Polling?

• Check if people understand what you’ve shared
• Get input on a decision
• Invite open-ended thoughts or reactions
• Let people vote anonymously (especially helpful for sensitive topics)
• Add energy to your session with a live quiz or word cloud

You don’t have to overhaul your entire session. Even one quick question can change the energy in the room.

Option 1: Slido

Slido works great for larger or hybrid groups. It integrates with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, PowerPoint, Webex, or runs independently through any browser.

You can use it for live polls, word clouds, quizzes, or anonymous Q&A. No downloads required — participants just scan a QR code or open a short link.

Examples at KAUST:

• A faculty member uses a Slido quiz to check concept understanding during a lecture
• A researcher launches a live poll during a workshop to drive discussion
• A department lead gathers anonymous questions during a townhall

Getting Started with Slido

Option 2: Microsoft Forms in Teams

If you’re already running your session in Microsoft Teams, Forms is a simple way to engage your audience without leaving the meeting window. You can launch polls on the fly or schedule them in advance.

Responses show up instantly and are saved for later review.

Examples at KAUST:

• An instructor checks student confidence before moving to the next topic
• A team lead runs a quick poll to prioritize topics for discussion
• A trainer asks attendees to rate their understanding after a session

Polling in Microsoft Teams: Microsoft Support Guide

Which One Should You Use?

Tips from the Field

• Keep it simple. One or two questions is often enough per topic
• Set expectations early. Let people know when to expect a poll
• Use QR codes or short links. Make it easy to join from any device
• Pause to reflect. Take a moment to respond to input during the session

Final Thought

Whether you're presenting, teaching, or leading, even a small amount of audience interaction can make a big difference. Slido and Microsoft Forms are easy to use, and they’re already available at KAUST.

Try one of them in your next meeting or lecture. It could be the spark that turns a passive session into a meaningful conversation.