Analytical Reports Analysis and Illustrating Report Data

Analysis: Results/Findings Report the results of each data collection method (don’t forget your client interview) You’re looking for Meanings Relationships Answers!

Analysis: Results/Findings –Don’t just regurgitate data, make connections To the challenge Between data sources (do they correlate? conflict? reinforce each other?)

Analysis: Results/Findings To clarify, condense, simplify, or emphasize data use: –Headings –Enumerations –Lists –Tables –Graphics When you use graphics, remember to also explain them in words.

Analysis: Evaluation When applicable: –Establish criteria to evaluate alternatives. –Discuss the pros and cons of each alternative. –Place the recommended alternative last.

Illustrating Report Data

Discussion Bad graphs: Don McMillanBad graphs

Functions of graphics To clarify data To condense and simplify data To emphasize data Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics –Table - to show exact figures and values ClassAgreeDisagreeUndecided Seniors Juniors Sophomores Freshmen Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics –Bar chart - compare one item with others Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics Line chart - demonstrate changes in quantitative data over time Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics Pie chart - visualize a whole unit and the proportion of its components Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics –Flow chart - display a process or procedure Illustrating Report Data ReceiveTest Floor Shelves Ship Re-box Re-stock Repair

Forms and objectives of graphics –Organization chart - define a hierarchy Illustrating Report Data

Forms and objectives of graphics –Theoretical model – highlight variables and their relationships Figure 1 Factors Influencing Cognitive Moral Development in Undergraduate Business Students

Forms and objectives of graphics Photograph, map, illustration - create authenticity, spotlight a location, show use Illustrating Report Data

Pie Chart N= 100

Use pie charts to show a whole and the proportion of its components. Generally begin at the 12 o’clock position, drawing the largest wedge first. Computer software programs, however, may vary in placement of wedges. Include the label and percentage or absolute value for each wedge. Avoid legends. Pie Chart

Use four to eight segments for best results; if necessary, group small portions into one wedge called “Other.” Distinguish wedges with color, shading, or crosshatching. Keep all labels horizontal. Pie Chart

Vertical Bar Chart Scale value Scale captions Source note Millions of Dollars Source: Industry Profiles (New York: DataPro, 2002), 225. Theme Parks Motion Pictures Videos $22.0 $32.2 $24.3 Figure 2 Figure number 2001 MPM INCOME BY DIVISION Figure title

Bar Charts Bar charts make visual comparisons. They can compare related items, illustrate changes in data over time, and show segments as parts of wholes. Bar charts may be vertical, horizontal, grouped, or segmented. Avoid showing too much information, clutter, and confusion Avoid 3-D graphics (hard to read)

Bar Charts The length of each bar and segment should be proportional. Dollar or percentage amounts should start at zero. Set background to clear. Include figure#, chart, and axis titles Avoid legends where possible to include labels on the graph Use simple color or pattern differentiations that can be copied in black & white and still understood.

Stacked Bar with Group Comparisons Figure 2 Cognitive Moral Development Stage By Group

Stacked Bar with Group and Time Comparisons

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