Research Methods in MIS: Presenting Results: Written and Oral Reports Deepak Khazanchi
Written Research Report Short report For well-defined, limited-scope problems with straight-forward methodology Usually 5 or fewer pages Formats Findings summary (graphical or tabular) attached to letter of transmittal Business letter Internal memorandum
Written Research Report Short Report (Memorandum) Reason for writing Answer direct inquiry with specific answer and supporting detail Expository style with brevity and directness Attach detailed materials as appendices when needed
Written Research Report Long report Technical report Management report
Long Report Components Prefatory Items Letter of transmittal Title page Authorization letter Executive summary Table of contents Introduction Problem statement Research objectives Background Methodology Sampling design Research design Data collection Data analysis Limitations Conclusions Summary and conclusions Recommendations Appendices Bibliography
Written Report Considerations Order of report Sentence outline Topic outline Comprehensibility Readability indices Pace Tone
Presentation of Statistics Text paragraph format Semi-tabular format Tabular format Graphical format
Graphical Formats Line graphs Area charts Pie charts Bar charts Pictographs/Geo-Graphics 3-D graphics
Oral Presentations Content Delivery Preparation Opening Length Findings and conclusions Recommendations Delivery Vocal characteristics Physical characteristics Preparation Length Content Style Scripted Extemporaneous Audiovisuals Type Role
Audiovisual Aids Chalkboards Whiteboards Handout materials Flip charts Slides Overhead transparencies Computer-drawn visuals Computer animation