Explain what an analytical report is and how it differs from an informational report. Then list three categories of analytical reports, describe each, and give an original example of each

Answer 1

Analytical Reports: Most analytical reports answer questions about specific problems. Analytical reports differ significantly from informational reports. Although both seek to collect and present data clearly, analytical reports also analyze the data and typically try to persuade the reader to accept the conclusions and act on the recommendations. Analytical reports can be written directly or indirectly, depending on the situation. Frontloading the recommendations also works when the topic is routine or familiar and the reader is supportive. When you must lead the reader through the process of discovering the solution or recommendation, use the indirect method: present conclusions and recommendations last.

Justification/Recommendation Reports: Both managers and employees must occasionally write reports that justify or recommend something, such as buying equipment, changing a procedure, hiring an employee, consolidating departments, or investing funds. These reports may also be called internal proposals because their persuasive nature is similar to that of external proposals.

Example: Kate wrote a report to her supervisor recommending that ergonomically designed chairs be purchased for all administrative employees.

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Feasibility Reports: Feasibility reports examine the practicality and advisability of following a course of action. They answer this question: Will this plan or proposal work? Feasibility reports typically are internal reports written to advise on matters such as consolidating departments, offering a wellness program to employees, or hiring an outside firm to handle a company's accounting or computing operations. The focus in these reports is on the decision: stopping or proceeding with the proposal. Because your role is not to persuade the reader to accept the decision, you'll want to present the decision immediately.

Example: A consultant has offered a plan for improving employee morale. Trent will now write a report to the management staff describing why he thinks this plan will work.

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Yardstick Reports: Yardstick reports examine problems with two or more solutions. To evaluate the best solution, the writer establishes criteria by which to compare the alternatives. The criteria then act as a yardstick against which all alternatives are measured.
Example: Laurie's company must hire a new law firm. She is conducting research to look at possible law firms and is measuring each by using the following criteria: experience in her company's field, services offered, other clients, and fees. She will present her findings in a yardstick report.