CHAPTER 2: PLANNING THE REPORT

Q: How to planning a report?
A: There're six steps for planning a report:

• Identify Purpose
• Identify Audience
• Identify context
• Identify content
• Select Medium
• Choose Report Structure

Q: In what way is outline the report?

A: To outlining the report, there're two ways:

• Informal Outlines: An informal outline is a list of topics to be included in the report. It often consists of words, short phrases, or combinations of those elements.
• Formal outlines: A formal outline is a useful communication tool both before and as you write the report. A formal outline employs a structured numbering system to show the various levels into which the report is divided. Phrases or sentences are used to describe the content of each devision and subdivision of the report. Depending largely on the preferences of your report readers, we can use either the traditional outline system or decimal system to number the section.

Q: How to write a collaborating report?

A: To write an effective collaborating report, we should identify five stages of group information:

• Forming: This stage is called the orientation stage. During the stage the group becomes oriented to the task, sets initial goals, and begins to establish ground rules.
• Storming: If the group succesfully navigates the storming phase, it moves into norming. The storming stage is marked by intragroup conflict. The group is typically eager to proceed with the task, but disagreements may arise about goals and procedures. However, the storming stage can be productive if it teaches team members how to deal with the difference.
• Norming: This stage is usually typified by openness to other group members, cooperation, and mutual support. The group becomes more focused on the task, and the member become aware of themselves as a functioning organism with a common goal and group spirit.
• Performing: Having passed through the storming and norming stages, group members should be able to work harmoniously toward achieving their common goal. In the performing stage the group functions as a relatively cohesive work unit.
• Adjourning: The adjourning stage should be seen as an opportunity to appreciate what has been done well, recognize what might have been done more effectively, and acknowledge the behaviors that contributed to successes or failures.