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Informal |
Formal |
|
Purpose |
To quickly communicate relevant findings and information. | To provide information on complex topics or projects that require large amounts of information on the topic as a whole. |
Audience |
Internal |
External |
Content |
|
|
Structure |
There are two main types of informal reports: Informational: provides background and information without any specific evaluation Analytical: similar to an informational report but does provide specific evaluation or recommendations In general, informal reports will have sections such as:
|
A formal business report is highly structured and is incredibly detailed. Sections include, but are not limited to:
|
Types/Examples |
Meeting minutes Incident reports Expense reports Project proposals Conference, convention, or trip reports Progress/interim reports, periodic/activity reports, or status updates Announcements or invitations sent internally to an organization Investigative reports |
Performance reviews Year-end financial statements Grant proposals Annual reports for stakeholders/investors/shareholders
Feasibility surveys or reports Business or strategic plans |
Learn more |
Academic writings: Informal business reports Business reports overview - The University of Newcastle Australia |
Types of formal business reports Preparing formal business reports A guide to writing formal business reports: content, style, and format (Seneca College) |
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