This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeLetter of Transmittal_9545
Correctly formatted letter or memo addressed to the specific person who can decide whether to implement the recommendations. The message focuses on the big picture, providing the key information from the report, It includes everything needed to determine whether to read the full report.
Correctly formatted & addressed correspondence that thoroughly explains the key information with insightful and specific details that encourage the reader to engage with the full report.
Generally follows the correspondence format and is addressed to someone in the organization, but may be missing minor elements such as a complete address block or a clear subject line. The summary of key information is somewhat rushed or incomplete.
Has major errors in the correspondence format, is addressed incorrectly or vaguely, or does not focus on the big picture. The content is disorganized or missing critical information needed for decision-making.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeTitle Page_3505
Includes a specific title, information on whom the report has been prepared for and on who has prepared the report. The report title clearly indicates the subject and scope of the report.
Includes a specific title, prepared for and prepared by details, and an accurate date. the report. The title is specific and informative, precisely capturing the subject and scope of the report.
Has major issues: the title is unclear or generic, and/or important identifying information (such as the preparer or intended audience) is missing or incorrect.
Summarizes all key aspects of the report in no more than 200 words. Tailored precisely for a technical audience, demonstrating excellent control of language and focus. Exceptionally clear, concise, and engaging.
Summarizes the report’s purpose, methods, findings, conclusions, and recommendations concisely and clearly, staying within the 200-word limit. Fully appropriate for a technical audience.
Addresses the main points of the report but may be slightly too long or short, or may use language that is only somewhat appropriate for a technical audience.
Is unclear, disorganized, incomplete, significantly outside the word limit, or uses language that is inappropriate for a technical audience. Key information may be missing or confusing.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeTable of Contents & List of Figures and Tables_3492
Lists all sections, headings, and subheadings in the report with accurate page numbers. If there are more than three figures and/or tables in the report, includes a list of figures and tables listing the specific name of each figure and table and the page that each appears on.
Lists all headings and subheadings with accurate page numbers. Complete, clear, and properly formatted. If applicable, the list of figures and tables is complete, correctly titled, and perfectly formatted. Overall, Comprehensive and polished.
Correctly lists all headings and subheadings with accurate page numbers. If required, the list of figures and tables is included with correct titles and page numbers.
Includes table of contents and (if relevant) list of figures and tables, but may be missing a few headings, subheadings, or figures/tables, or may have some minor errors in page numbering or titles.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeExecutive Summary_446
Summarizes background, findings, implications, and recommendations for managers, providing the details they will need to implement the report’s recommendations.
Is exceptionally well-organized and clearly presents the background, findings, implications, and recommendations in a highly concise, engaging, and actionable format. It fully equips managers to implement the report’s recommendations.
Is missing multiple major components. It is unclear, disorganized, or too vague to guide management decision-making effectively. It may not address the needs of management.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIntroduction_682
Covers the subject and purpose of the report, provides background information, explains the sources for information in the report, defines the scope of the report, states the most significant findings and the recommendation(s). It explains the organization of the report and mentions any key terms that will be new to readers.
Thorough, engaging, and exceptionally well-organized. It fully addresses the subject, purpose, background, sources, scope, key findings, recommendations, organization, and key terms, while providing excellent clarity and flow.
Clearly covers the subject, purpose, background, sources, scope, key findings, recommendations, organization of the report, and defines any necessary key terms, with no omissions or errors.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeMethods_6529
Answers the question, “What did you do?” by describing how you conducted your research. It provides enough information for readers to understand what you did and why you did it that way. Provide enough detail for someone else to duplicate your methods.
Provides a highly detailed, clear, and replicable description of both primary and secondary research activities. Directly and completely explains the research and how it was conducted.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeResults_8507
Answers the question, “What did you see or determine?” by presenting the data your discovered or compiled. It reports the data you discovered or compiled, presenting the information objectively, without comment or interpretation.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeRecommendations_3096
Answers the question, “What should we do?” by outlining the possible actions that the company or organization can take, evaluating the effectiveness of each. Provides specific, actionable advice based on the conclusions section.
Provides clear, practical, highly actionable recommendations that are thoroughly evaluated against alternatives. Provides strong argument for the recommended options.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeReferences/Documentation_4100
In-text and bibliography citations are included, using a consistent bibliographic format. The bibliography is on a separate page (titled Works Cited or References depending on your citation style selection).
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAppendices_3161
Well-labeled appendices that clearly support and supplement report content. Each appendix begins on a new page and includes a specific title in addition to the appendix label (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B). If there is only one appendix, the alphabet letter is not included.
Appendices are well-organized, thoroughly labeled, perfectly formatted, and strongly enhance the report. They are referenced directly in the body of the report.
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeProfessional Design and Formatting_6176
Polished, professional layout with headings and subheadings, visuals, and easy navigation. The document design and formatting should do the following: (1) Makes information easy for readers to find and read. (2) Emphasizes important information. (3) Makes a good first impression as a polished, professional document. (4) Uses well-integrated and well-designed visuals to clarify the information.
Document design is exceptionally polished, with outstanding clarity, consistent headings, excellent visual integration, and ease of navigation. Images, graphics, and other visual elements add expert details and clarity to the report.
Professionally formatted with clear headings, good visuals, and logical organization that supports navigation. Images, graphics, and charts are well integrated.