I think that Ms. Bumiller is being too one-sided and unfair in her article. What she describes is simply a misuse of PowerPoint. I, too, have experienced presentations that are ineffective and boring. However, that is not how PowerPoint should be used.
PowerPoint can be used as effective support in a presentation when it is used properly. This means using it to reinforce the ideas presented in your speech, rather than letting it be your speech. Having graphs and charts to refer to provides a good visual for your audience. Summarizing important points as bulleted lists can be a good way to help your audience focus on what is most important for them to understand. Overall, it is critical to have an audience-centered approach when creating a PowerPoint. If you're not considering their needs and expectations, you will end up with a room full of snoring audience members.
The military could improve their use of PowerPoint presentations if they implemented these tips.