Recommendation Report

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.

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.

Provides a concise summary of the report for a technical audience, in no more than 200 words.

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.

Summarizes background, findings, implications, and recommendations for managers, providing the details they will need to implement the report’s recommendations.

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.

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.

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.

Answers the question, “What does it mean?” by explaining the implications of the results. It presents the implications of the results.

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.

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).

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.

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.

Work is original and fully credits all sources.