Progress Report

  • Due Apr 18 by 11:59pm
  • Points 1
  • Submitting a file upload
  • File Types pdf
  • Available Jan 21 at 12am - May 2 at 11:59pm
This assignment was locked May 2 at 11:59pm.

Choose the Version of the  Assignment

Choose the version of the assignment you prefer. The requirements are the same. The two versions are meant to help with students who have different needs. Regardless of which your group chooses, you’ll turn in your assignment here.

Both versions use the following scenario:

You work as a Usability Consultant at a Maroon + Orange Digital, where I (Traci) work as a Founding Owner and the Director of Project Development. I’ve approved your proposal to recommend improvements to usability of an existing website, and your work is underway.

Your job now is to update me (Traci) on what your group has accomplished and whether your work is on track. You should also tell me if there are any challenges or concerns that your group has encountered. You’ll follow the instructions below in the “How to Do It” section.

AI Guidelines for Both Versions

Allowed Use of AI

You can use Copilot or another Generative AI tool of your choice on this project in any of the ways listed under the question “What can I use AI for in this course? Links to an external site.” in the Course Policies Manual. Be sure to save the responses AI gives you. 

Prohibited Use of AI

You cannot ask AI to write or revise your drafts or final submissions for you. Doing so directly violates the Cheating and Plagiarism sections of the Virginia Tech Honor Code.

Additional Resources

1745035199 04/18/2025 11:59pm

Rubric

Keep in mind that 55 students have already been assessed using this rubric. Changing it will affect their evaluations.
Progress Report Rubric
Progress Report Rubric
Criteria Ratings
Memo Format
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Memo format is exceptionally clean and professional. Layout reflects a high degree of polish and consistency.
Meets Expectations Follows standard memo format with correct use of spacing, memo headers, document title, and page numbers. Layout is clean and appropriate.
Almost Meets Expectations Follows memo format with some lapses in spacing, header structure, or layout.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Memo format is inconsistent or improperly applied, making the document hard to follow.
Missing Memo format not used or incorrect.
Document Design
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Design elements (headings, subheadings, bullets, spacing, font, color, visuals) are intentionally applied to enhance reader engagement, clarity, and accessibility. Shows creativity without sacrificing professionalism.
Meets Expectations Uses design elements (e.g. headings, bullets, spacing, font, color, boxes) effectively to support readability and organization.
Almost Meets Expectations Some design elements used, but inconsistently or with minimal effect.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Minimal or poor design choices that hinder readability.
Missing No attention to design; lacks visual structure.
Introduction
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Introduction is concise, well-organized, and rhetorically savvy. Clearly frames the project and report purpose while engaging the reader with thoughtful context.
Meets Expectations Provides all required elements: purpose statement and overview of the Recommendation Report or Fact Sheet Collection and progress to date.
Almost Meets Expectations Most elements are present, but one or two are unclear or missing.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Several required elements are missing or unclear.
Missing Introduction missing or lacks required elements.
Work Completed
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Goes beyond task summary by incorporating team insights, analysis, or unexpected developments. Paragraphs are specific, well-organized, and connected to project goals.
Meets Expectations Summarizes completed work with specific, concrete details. Organized with subheadings and task-based structure. May include visual elements that demonstrate progress.
Almost Meets Expectations Summary includes general tasks but lacks depth, clarity, or strong organization.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Work completed section is vague or poorly structured.
Missing Section missing or provides no meaningful information.
Work Scheduled
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Future tasks are fully developed and thoughtfully sequenced. Gantt Chart is integrated, polished, and used as a genuine planning tool. Includes proactive measures or contingencies.
Meets Expectations Summarizes upcoming work with timeframes, structure, and logical sequence. Gantt Chart included and aligns with plan.
Almost Meets Expectations Outlines future work with some detail, but may be vague or uneven. Gantt Chart is present but underdeveloped.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Future work section is vague or disorganized. Gantt Chart is weak.
Missing Section and/or Gantt Chart missing.
Conclusion
Edit criterion description
Exceeds Expectations Offers thoughtful reflection and/or recommendations. Wraps up clearly, professionally, and invites follow-up. Contact info and closing tone are audience-aware and polished.
Meets Expectations Summarizes progress and future steps. Includes contact info for follow-up.
Almost Meets Expectations Some summary and closing included, but may be vague or formulaic.
Needs Work to Meet Expectations Weak or abrupt conclusion with little reflection or detail.
Missing Conclusion missing.