Pretty much what others have said. I can go along at a pretty good clip but I'm definitely exerting myself a good deal (hence my question about backsweat on the forums). On flat ground, technique is to essentially walk as closely to normal as possible, but on steep terrain things change up substantially, as well as with any traversing. You've gotta think about what exactly you'll be using them for though. I read a lot about how everybody loves the Denali's but I wasn't too sure how well they'd work for deep backcountry powder here in Colorado. I use these
http://tubbssnowshoes.com/snowshoes/mens/mountaineer-mI should note that I use the ones rated for 250lbs, and even though my load very rarely exceeds 200 total pounds, there are times when I still sink significantly. Based on surface area, I can only imagine the Denali's would be worse in this regard. I also really like the bindings on these- super simple, durable, and they just work without me having to screw around with them.
But again... evaluate exactly what you're using them for. I like snowshoes for a couple reasons though- in the summer, I'm usually in a hurry and make fast time, but I enjoy slowing things down in the winter. I also welcome the added stress, because it helps keep me in shape in the winter. I also don't have a problem with staying overnight in order to accomplish something. Having said that, anything beyond 9 miles of trail breaking gets tiresome for me. One other benefit of snowshoes is that they're good for showing friends/girlfriends who don't get out into the wilderness much how cool the deserted winter backcountry can be, since any idiot can snowshoe.
But if you want efficiency and speed, look at skis or travel on well used paths.
ETA: Since you asked about increasing efficiency, the best thing is really just spreading the stress of breaking trail with partners if you have them. Switch out often.
One other thing- don't be an ass and walk on ski tracks.