Preparing a Business Report

Business Proposal A document designed to make a persuasive appeal to the audience to achieve a defined outcome, often proposing a solution to a problem Built around a great idea or solution Should effectively use traditional categories Must be credible, logical, and should showcase passion and enthusiasm Must be professional

Table 9.2 - Business Proposal Format

Table 9.2 - Business Proposal Format (Contd.)

Types of Business Proposals Solicited When you have been asked to submit a proposal Unsolicited The “cold calls” of business writing For a clear example of a business proposal, click here

Report A document designed to record and convey information to the reader The type of report is identified by its primary purpose or function

Demonstrate relationships Make recommendations Types of Reports Informational report Informs or instructs Presents details of events, activities, individuals, or conditions without analysis Analytical report Presents information with a comprehensive analysis to: Solve problems Demonstrate relationships Make recommendations

Table 9.3 - Types of Reports and Their Functions

Table 9.3 - Types of Reports and Their Functions (Contd.)

Table 9.3 - Types of Reports and Their Functions (Contd.)

How Are Reports Organized? Whom the report is about and/or prepared for What was done, what problems were addressed, and the results, conclusions and/or recommendations Where the subject studied occurred When the subject studied occurred Why the report was written, under what authority, for what reason, or by whose request How the subject operated, functioned, or was used

Table 9.4 - Ten Common Elements of a Report

Table 9.4 - Ten Common Elements of a Report (Contd.)

Table 9.4 - Ten Common Elements of a Report (Contd.)

Table 9.4 - Ten Common Elements of a Report (Contd.)