What is culturally-responsive design?

An informal report follows the same format as the memo but is longer and more comprehensive. Because it is longer than one or two pages, the informal report also includes page numbers, headings, bulleted or numbered lists, graphs, charts, or tables as needed.

MEMORANDUM

To: (name and title of target audience) From: (name and title of writer: remember to initial) Date: RE:

1. a statement of the problem or situation

2. the task assigned to the writer and the scope of the project.

3. purpose of the report and forecasts for the reader the topics of the report.

Finally, when appropriate, the introduction ends with the findings or recommendation reached by the writer.

[Use headings, e.g., formal communications, informal communications, etc]

Another aspect of report writing that is somewhat different from other business communications is the reading patterns of various audiences.

Remember that most memos and reports have a target audience, but a number of secondary audiences who must be accommodated. Some of the readers will skim the report. In other words, the report, particularly the discussion sections, may not be read in a linear way—from the first word progressing to the last. Therefore, the writer must be certain the report is comprehensible when read in that manner.

Each section must work together as part of the whole report, but a reader should be able to read one section and understand the context. Anytime you use a list, or graphic or visual representation, you should introduce that list or visual and explain its purpose to the audience.

Finally, the conclusion of a report, depending on its purpose, should remind the reader of any action needed, ask for a response, or indicate a willingness to answer questions.

This section may also provide contact information for future communications.