Question 1

What is the PIICE® Method?

Accepted Answer

I, Hans-Peter Haupt, developed the PIICE method to help people all over the world successfully deliver a good speech or presentation using simple techniques. To do this, I distilled my own experiences from research and teaching—as well as best-practice examples from skilled speakers—into key points and combined them into a step-by-step guide, much like a recipe, for giving a good speech. The PIICE® method is deliberately kept so simple that even beginners and those with little experience—such as children or STEM professionals - can easily and confidently achieve their goals. But the technique also helps experienced speakers to sustainably improve their speeches, presentations, and overall performance.

Question 2

Where does the name PIICE come from?

Accepted Answer

After spending many years exploring the steps involved in crafting a good speech, I’ve broken down the entire process for speeches and presentations into five steps. The first letters of these five steps form the acronym PIICE.
The 5 PIICE steps are:

P – Preparation
I – Initialization
I – Introduction
C – Content
E – End

Anyone who carefully follows all these steps can deliver an effective speech or presentation. For experienced speakers, the first two steps—P and I—are often abbreviated. Furthermore, targeted support measures, such as coaching or relevant seminars, can be planned and practiced for each step; for example, a “Moment of Excellence” can be conducted during the Preparation phase. During the initialization phase, one can then specifically tap into that feeling of peak performance to get into a good state of mind for the presentation and to be able to deliver one’s best performance. Effective coaching, such as for overcoming stage fright, is also beneficial during the preparation phase (P). The preparation phase and the initialization phase help inexperienced speakers in particular get off to a good start for a successful speech.

Question 3

Please tell us a little about your vision, mission, and purpose at PIICE.

Accepted Answer

“I have a dream…” These words by Martin Luther King inspired me to make my dream a reality here. Ever since I began giving public speeches, I have repeatedly asked myself what the keys to a successful speech are and what is the easiest way for someone to learn the art of public speaking. Over many years, as an instructor in seminars and at universities, I began to structure and systematize my experiences and thoughts on the topic of “The Perfect Speech.” Much like a good meal, it requires several ingredients. We start with a base dish, which we then gradually refine creatively with additional ingredients.

My vision?

Much like Martin Luther King, I, too, have a dream. I want to enable everyone to communicate more effectively using simple methods—whether they are a top executive at a publicly traded company or a poor person living in the slums of the world, whether they are men, women, children, or seniors. The PIICE method is designed especially to help poor people learn, in a simple way, how to express their points of view. Those in STEM fields, who play a crucial role in solving the challenges of the future, should also be able to articulate themselves much more clearly and turn their concerns from problems into solutions. The PIICE method is the simplest, most efficient, and most effective method and is therefore set to become the world’s leading standard for speeches and presentations.

My mission:

Through further research and development—for example, at the University of Excellence in Switzerland—we will gradually improve and refine the method and its tools. To this end, we will also train numerous participants and intensify the training of educators, teachers, lecturers, trainers, and coaches, both in terms of quantity and, above all, quality.

My purpose:

The PIICE method is my personal gift to humanity. I enjoy speaking to board members and CEOs in beautiful places, such as Switzerland, but my team and I also support people with little or no money. In developing and emerging countries, I want to help empower even poor people to express themselves. Throughout my life, I’ve supported many people on a volunteer basis, but at least as many people have accompanied me on my life’s journey, often offering help or assisting me without my even having to ask. I firmly believe that all the good you put out into the world comes back to you many times over. The same will be true for the spread of the PIICE method.

Question 4

Why does the PIICE® method offer valuable guidance and tangible benefits, especially to beginners in public speaking and presentation?

Accepted Answer

The PIICE method offers a clear structure, especially for beginners, but also for anyone who wants to develop professionally, methodologically, and personally. The PIICE method provides a clear roadmap for targeted development and a training framework within which everyone can systematically develop their skills according to their own schedule—from beginners to coaches, trainers, or professional speakers. Beginners, in particular, need clear guidance. The PIICE structure describes, step by step, which elements a speaker can successfully incorporate into their presentation. Beginners are often unsure and have many concerns: How do I prepare? How do I begin my speech? How do I win over my audience? What conclusion should I choose?

Simply use the tried-and-true building blocks from this toolkit and design your presentation using the PIICE method. You combine these elements—which have been tested countless times and proven effective time and again—as a foundation with your content to create an effective presentation. The method’s structured approach, in particular, helps beginners overcome their fears of public speaking or presenting and also enables targeted further development.

Question 5

What benefits does the PIICE® method offer companies?

Accepted Answer

Especially in a world where more and more routine tasks are being handled by systems, the skills that distinguish humans from machines are fundamental. Human communication, with its underlying structure that reflects our thoughts and feelings, is precisely what defines us and shapes how we live together. Modern leadership methods and work practices require a high level of communication skills. OKR, Scrum, and Design Thinking require not only leaders but also employees to articulate their positions and clearly explain content and goals. Using the PIICE method as servant leaders, managers and coaches can specifically empower and support employees. Good communication is the key to team success and, consequently, to the success of the entire company.

Question 6

It all started with the idea of providing STEM students with effective support for their speeches and presentations. What specific benefits does the PIICE® method offer STEM students?

Accepted Answer

For professions such as lawyers, journalists, teachers, and business students, spoken or written language takes precedence. For STEM professionals—such as mathematicians, engineers, computer scientists, and technicians—the focus is on mathematics, diagrams, or a programming language, for example. Speaking in front of others is not a priority for these individuals; often, such speaking situations are unfamiliar to them. For many years, I have been intensively engaged in the personality development of STEM professionals. When I look at personality models—such as DISC, Insights MDI, or those from Persolog—many STEM professionals score high on Green (Steady) or Blue (Conscientious). These two groups are also introverted. This insight from my work is further confirmed by corresponding test results. STEM professionals often prefer a systematic approach to new topics.

Since the PIICE system systematically guides everyone through every step—from the initial idea for a speech to the final applause—it provides STEM professionals with the ideal tool for delivering a great speech or presentation. I have taught this technique to STEM professionals for many years, and the students in my lectures and seminars have always been thrilled with the results and their newly acquired skills.

The anxiety about the next performance has disappeared—or at least been significantly reduced. Many are also happy that they can now express themselves so well.

Virtually all future-oriented topics fall under the STEM umbrella, and qualified STEM professionals are crucial to finding solutions to the challenges of the future. Furthermore, the modern (agile) workplace requires specific communication skills—even from STEM professionals. Work methods such as Design Thinking, Scrum, and OKR only work with active communication. By developing these new communication skills, STEM professionals can make the most of their abilities and potential, thereby contributing more effectively to their companies and our society. That is why we have developed the PIICE 4 STEM program specifically for STEM professionals, such as engineers, computer scientists, and natural scientists.

Question 7

PIICE 4 Kids: Why is PIICE also suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

The PIICE method is so simple that even children in preschools and schools can easily use it. That’s why we developed the PIICE 4 Kids program. Through a systematic and playful approach, children learn to express themselves and effectively articulate their views and perspectives. This builds their awareness of their own abilities and, in turn, boosts their self-esteem. In daycare centers, these exercises could be integrated into morning circle time; in elementary schools (primary level), they could be practiced as part of school projects; and in secondary schools (lower and upper secondary levels), they could be used during presentations and for group and independent assignments. For students taking the Abitur or Matura, this serves as ideal preparation for college; in vocational schools, it prepares them for their future careers. That is why we not only carry out projects ourselves in preschools and schools but also systematically train early childhood educators and teachers. By actively involving the children, we foster a joy of learning and thereby lay the foundation for an interest in the topic of communication.

Question 8

How does the PIICE® method benefit policymakers?

Accepted Answer

Politics thrives on communication. Every political actor must be able to clearly articulate their positions and thus seek approval and support. The positions that gain majority support can be successfully implemented. For a functioning democracy, we need open discourse and the exchange of clear viewpoints—in ancient times in the Agora, just as today in online media.

However, rhetoric is often used in politics to manipulate or, as we know from many historical examples, to abuse power. That is why we also offer seminars on how to protect oneself against manipulation. For Hans-Peter Haupt, honest and ethically responsible communication—as embodied in the PIICE method—is of great value.

Question 9

Hans-Peter, how would you rate your own public speaking skills?

Accepted Answer

I was afraid this question would come up.

Even as a child, I enjoyed speaking and asked a lot of questions. From an early age, I closely followed public appearances—such as those of our mayor or politicians on television. I was interested in the impact of language.

Still, I was also a little shy and pretty nervous whenever I had to speak in front of a group.

My journey as a speaker and lecturer has unfolded in many stages.

During my training as a radio and television technician, I filled in for the owner and master technician at the store and sold just as many televisions in a single morning. In the Junge Union and on the student council, I then gave my first speeches on local politics, attended public speaking seminars, and worked as a conference assistant for well-known public speaking trainers, learning a great deal in the process. My many years of service as chair of the Youth Welfare Committee on my hometown’s city council also served as excellent training in chairing meetings and moderating events. There, too, I delivered numerous speeches and presentations. Later, as party chair and full-time mayor, I spoke before ever-larger audiences.

In my professional life—whether in corporate project management, as an entrepreneur, or as a lecturer—I have always taken every opportunity to speak in front of people and give presentations.

It has always been—and continues to be—important to me that my audience is well entertained and gains tangible benefits from the presentation. Actively engaging the audience is key to success. Numerous training and continuing education programs support my work.

For many years, I have been committed to empowering people to develop and realize their personal potential.

Inspired by my work with many STEM professionals, such as engineers and computer scientists, I have conducted an in-depth study of how people can be systematically prepared for a speech or presentation.

I developed the PIICE Method based on the fundamentals of neuroscience and psychology, specialized literature, an analysis of numerous speeches, and my own experience as a coach, trainer, and lecturer. The PIICE Method has proven effective for many years. Many people who have learned it are grateful to me for it—grateful for the new opportunities it has given them to express themselves and advocate for their point of view.

Am I a good speaker? In any case, I'm definitely better than I was when I first started out.

I've learned a lot about this and can captivate my audience.

But when it comes to rhetoric and presentation, I also apply a piece of wisdom from the trades:

"A journeyman is someone who knows how to do things."

A master is someone who conceives ideas.

"But anyone can be an apprentice."

That's why I enjoy working with people who are better at certain things than I am. But I also learn a lot from participants and students.

The wonderful PIICE team and the faculty at the Swiss University of Excellence (HEX) consist of many top specialists in the fields of body language, voice training, performance training, speechwriting, trainer and public speaking training, and much more.

Question 10

Will I be able to speak and give presentations perfectly after taking a PIICE seminar?

Accepted Answer

Not quite, but you’ve laid the most important foundation for it. Rhetoric is like learning to swim. With PIICE, you’ll learn all the essentials you need to move confidently in the water and make progress. Using the PIICE method, you’ll be able to move confidently on stage during all your appearances, speeches, and presentations. Once you’ve mastered the basics, I recommend taking advantage of everyday opportunities—for example, volunteering to give speeches and presentations. Take advantage of every opportunity at work, in volunteer roles—such as at member meetings—and in your personal life, like at Grandma’s birthday party, to speak and thus practice your public speaking skills in real-life situations. Over the years, I’ve also taken advantage of many such opportunities, whether in local politics, at work, as a lecturer, or later as a full-time mayor.

Question 11

Is the PIICE® method only suitable for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Definitely not. The basic structure of a good speech is always the same, whether you're a student, a board member, or the chancellor.

However, the flowchart provides a solid framework that gives you—regardless of your role or speaking situation—a universal foundation with which you can easily structure any type of presentation. Furthermore, the PIICE method serves as an introduction to a comprehensive toolkit for public speaking, presenting, and performance. Numerous additional modules—which build on one another well—such as body language, voice training, the voice as a leadership tool, online presenting, trainer training, and public speaking training round out the program. This enables a targeted start to personal development at any level.

Question 12

Are there any official training programs for the PIICE system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all participants in online and in-person seminars receive a PIICE certificate and can have it recognized by the University of Excellence (HEX) for further education. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Swiss University of Excellence, we offer a comprehensive university-level training program that meets European standards and follows the ECTS/credit system. You can earn specific, modularly structured degrees through the PIICE Institute and HEX.

The program begins with 3- to 4-hour seminars, known as “Nuggets” (0.2 ECTS), a one-day in-person training session (0.3 ECTS), an advanced course (1.5 ECTS), or the PIICE Fundamentals Course (2 ECTS). Additional qualifications as a certified speaker or trainer can be earned as official university degrees, such as a CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies, 15 ECTS), a DAS (Diploma of Advanced Studies, 30 ECTS), or a MAS (Master of Advanced Studies, 60 ECTS).

According to our research, this makes the PIICE® method the only system in the world that serves as the foundation for a comprehensive university-level education in rhetoric, presentation, and performance.

Feel free to contact me about this: Contact Form

Question 13

Who is the PIICE® method not suitable for?

Accepted Answer

Off the top of my head, I can’t think of anyone. PIICE is suitable for children, STEM students, politicians, women and men, seniors, CEOs, salespeople, founders, teachers, trainers, speakers, lecturers, coaches, etc. The only exceptions, in my view, are people who don’t want to grow personally and who want to speak in front of others. That’s a personal choice, and PIICE is simply a support program. No one should be forced to change their personality against their will.

Question 14

Hans-Peter, do you have any advice—even outside the PIICE® method—that you can give a speaker for a presentation?

Accepted Answer

As a young man, after my first forays into local politics, a good friend of my father’s gave me the following advice on public speaking: “Stand up so people can see you. Speak loudly and clearly so people can understand you. And keep it short so people will like you.”

The PIICE Story

14 Questions for Hans-Peter Haupt, the Developer of the PIICE® Method

14 Questions for Hans-Peter Haupt, the Developer of the PIICE® Method

FAQ with Hans-Peter Haupt

Many thanks to Dr. Dr. Gert Mittring for his willingness

Hans-Peter Haupt