Writing Business Reports Ch. 10 Flashcards
List three different categories of business reports.
Periodic Reports, Progress Reports, problem-solving reports, and compliance reports
What are the three basic phases involved in the report-writing process?
- Gather the data. 2. Compose the report. 3. Review and revise the report.
Explain why a direct approach is best in a most decision reports.
Because putting the main conclusions and recommendations of the report near the beginning is the general rule. It is preferred. You give everything upfront, whereas in the indirect approach, you save the recommendation for after the analysis. The direct approach allows you to set the recommendation first and then the analysis and supporting evidence of such.
Describe the difference in using a factor-by-alternative and an alternative-by-factor approach. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each as applied in decision reports.
Factor by alternative sequence is
1. cost - A. alternative A cost, B. Alternative B cost, c. Alternative C cost. 2. Quality…. 3. Ease of Implementation…
Alternative by factor sequence is
1. alternative A, A. cost of alternative A, B. Quality of Alternative A, C Ease of implementation of Alternative A.
What is the difference between a factor and an alternative?
Factor - one element that contributes to a result or situation. Alternative - a choice that leads to action.
Why is high-to-low sequencing important in decision tables?
Because it shows the results of your evaluation and makes the table easier to read.
What is the function of the cover letter in business reports?
It is a short message that officially conveys the report to the reader. The letter is not a report summary, but it may tell what information the report contains, such as analyses and recommendations for action. It often closes with a statement inviting the recipient to contact the report writer for additional info and clarification.
List the elements included on the title page of a formal report.
The title, the name of the person or organization for whom the report was written, the name and position of the writer, and the date.
Describe the executive summary. Discuss its importance in primary reports.
The executive summary is a mini-report that gives the purpose of the report (or tells why the study was conducted), the objective(s) of the report, a summary of the major findings or conclusions, and the key recommendations.
List three major methods of data gathering for primary research reports.
Determine the specific need or purpose. Decide on research methods and procedures to achieve the need. First focus on what, now, you determine how. For primary research gathering you must conduct interviews or send out questionnaires, or gather information in a variety of other ways.
What should be included in appendixes?
Supplements information given in the body. The appended pages include supplemental information such as detailed tables and graphics.
