Creating a Consulting Report Jamie Sass Assistant Director, CoB Communications Center

Audience Considerations Understanding who you are writing for is the most important step in creating a consulting report. Most audiences reading a consulting report will not have the same technical background as your team, so it is wise to use language that will be understood by an everyday audience. Explain unfamiliar terminology and stay away from jargon.

Consulting Report Basics Expertise Gives expert advice on technical problems Writes to an audience outside of your field Findings Covers findings based on data collection Offers insights into findings Recommendations Provides recommendations in easily understood language Justifies recommendations with reasoning and analysis

Key Concepts in Consulting Reports Explanation Analysis Justification Explanation, analysis, and justification are at the heart of consulting reports. First, you must spend time explaining things to your audience in a concise, but through matter. Then, you must analyze what has been presented to finally justify your recommendations.

Contents of a Consulting Report Front Matter Content Back Matter

Abstract or Executive Summary Front Matter Matters! Title Page Abstract or Executive Summary Table of Contents

Title Page A strong title page will have a descriptive title that clearly states what is happening in the consulting report.

Abstract or Executive Summary A snapshot of the report that discusses the problem investigated, the methods used to investigate it, and important findings One paragraph, usually less than 200 words

Content Matters Most! Introduction Outlines the purpose of the report Provides insight into the company’s problem or situation. Shows you understand the issue and builds goodwill. Background Shows how you collected information Methods

Content Matters Most Analysis Provides insights into the issues by addressing how or why something works the way it does Analysis Provides a specific recommendation with a specific course of action that is justified by evidence Recommendations Summarizes the report and offers future help if needed Conclusion

Back Matter References Appendices Exhibitions

Style and Formatting Matters Needs Headings Bullets are Fine Active Voice Required