Using 3D in powerpoint
Jan has a useful post about using 3D in Powerpoint -
Many 3D effects are NOT useful. Three dimensional graphs make it harder to match the data to the value axes. Adding "random" bevels, reflections and shadows to a PowerPoint object does not make it an elegant graphical element. The fact that PowerPoint can do it, does not mean you have to use it.
Why don't we use 3D for what it can do best: show distance? The example below shows a time line that we expect to last forever.