Key Elements of a Formal Intelligence Report 419

Parts of a Formal Report Preface (optional) – written by author; indicates for whom the report is written, the objectives and scope, and methods used to assemble the report Executive Summary (BLUF) – Identifies the topic; explains reasons for examining the topic; succinctly states main findings, conclusions, and recommendations

Parts of a formal report continued Main Body Introduction – original directive or predication on which the report is based Main Discussion – main players and activities; methods of operation; who/what/when/where/how Conclusion – summarizes key points and presents recommendations Outlook/Assessment/Key Takeaways Footnotes (Sourcing)

Techniques for Oral Presentation Understand your topic material succinctly Determine 3-4 key points to convey to the audience for each topic area. Language matters/Be Precis Write a script – jot down key words and phrases

Techniques for Oral Presentation Introduction should let listeners know what to expect, what the presentation will cover and in what order (think oral ‘BLUF’) The body should address: Key points and relevant facts outlined in your script Sum up each relevant point and then signal next point with smooth transition Show the listener the connection between what you have said and what is to come

Strategic Analysis Report BLUF, Scope, Key Findings, Outlook, and Intelligence Gaps BLUF – ‘Bottom Line Up Front’: Identifies the topic; explains reasons for examining the topic; succinctly states main findings, conclusions, and recommendations Create a clearly defined purpose and conclusion within your BLUF “The purpose of this paper is to research, organize, analyze and determine conclusions and recommendations regarding border security issues and how they affect our criminal justice system.”

Strategic Analysis Report - BLUF BLUF –Position key information at the beginning for a quick understanding. If no single key idea stands out, create one so your paper doesn't wander aimlessly. Increasing numbers of mass incidents are likely to destabilize Chinese society. The Czech Republic is likely to adopt the euro in the next five years. After you present your main ideas, present your supporting information in short, organized paragraphs under clear, logical headings.

Strategic Analysis Report - Scope Scope - follows the BLUF; project justification, purpose - typically reveals the paper's purpose ("The purpose of this paper is to gain in-depth understanding of how border security issues impact the American criminal justice system") Should also describe the expected outcomes or predictions regarding the paper's findings ("It is expected that an analysis of border security issues will prove that the American criminal justice system is challenged by current legislation and law enforcement efforts regarding border security")

Strategic Analysis Report – Body and Key Findings Main Body Introduction – original directive or predication on which the report is based (similar to scope) Main Discussion – main players and activities; methods of operation; who/what/when/where/how Conclusion/ Key Findings – summarizes key points and presents recommendations, findings, analytical conclusions Your key findings should be persuasive and supportive of your conclusions and analysis

Strategic Analysis Report – Outlook Outlook – provide a predictive conclusion and ‘future-looking’ insight that is supported by your analysis, conclusions, and key findings “If border security reform is effectively applied using a/b/c methods, the criminal justice system will benefit from the decreased numbers of arrested illegal immigrants”

Strategic Analysis Report – Intelligence Gaps In what ways can intelligence fail to provide an understanding of your topic and how it relates to criminal justice? How do intelligence efforts now fail to address your topic? How can intelligence evolve to support a better understanding of your topic?