Response: Module 21

According to module 21, a report provides the information needed in an organization in order to make plans and resolve problems. Reports vary in length and type depending on the organization, and they can be either formal or informal. There are three types of reports: information reports, analytical reports, and recommendation reports.

The lecture suggests that before drafting a proposal, we need to analyze the problem and complete part of the research, at least one-fourth of it. This research will define the problem and identify the main topics.

Proposals and final reports need a purpose statement. This purpose statement should have three elements: the organizational problem, the technical questions that need to be answered, and the report’s purpose. In a proposal, it is crucial to have a clear view of the problem.      

In proposals for class projects, we need to include:

• Summary of the topic and purpose of the report (one or two sentences)
• Problem
• Feasibility
• Audience
• Topics to Investigate
• Methods
• Qualifications, Facilities, and Resources
• Work Schedule
• Call to Action

In sales proposals, we need to show the reader benefits and use you-attitude and psychological description. In proposals for funding, we need to emphasize the needs the project will meet. 

The employer or funding organization can ask for progress reports in long term projects. We need to describe the work that has been done and the work that needs to be completed. We also need to create a good image of ourselves.

I find figure 21.4 in the book very useful. It shows a student’s proposal for a long report with blue marginal notes explaining each section.