1. Short Reports

2. How can report writing set you apart from other employees?
Longer, more complex documents
More sophisticated analysis and critical thinking
Research skills
Collaboration

3. Introductory Information
Emphasize new information
Often guide decisions (persuasive component, recommendations)
Present material too complex for a standard letter or memo

4. Short Report Format
Memo
Letter
Booklet

5. Memo and Letter Typically two pages or more
Divided into separate, labeled sections
Memo report—internal
Letter report—external

6. Short Report Types
Incident: Explains the circumstances surrounding a troublesome occurrence
Travel: Identifies the purpose and results of business-related travel
Recommendation: Urges that certain actions be taken in response to a problem
Progress: Outlines the status of an ongoing project or undertaking

7. Overview
Each type may be internal or external and use letter, memo, or booklet format.
All four types typically a combination of informative and persuasive: They present information, but with the goal of affecting decision-making, policy, etc.
All four types typically front-loaded with additional information specific to each type of report.

8. Progress Reports
“A progress report provides information about the status of an ongoing project or activity that must be monitored to ensure successful completion within a specified period” (Searles 75).
Also called status and periodic reports
Written at varying stages of a project
Written to management or other reader(s) with vested interest

9. Progress Report Components
Introduction: Context (identification of the project, objectives, status)
Work Completed: Accomplishments (explanation of what has been done)
Work Remaining: Uncompleted tasks (explanation of what needs to be done)
Problems: Delays, overruns, difficulties (included if relevant)
Conclusion: Summary/recommendations