Using the same topic as the proposal report, write an 1800-2000 word RECOMMENDATION REPORT that provides a list of action plans and solutions to your key problem. Write a letter of transmittal (cover
Using the same topic as the proposal report, write an 1800-2000 word RECOMMENDATION REPORT that provides a list of action plans and solutions to your key problem. Write a letter of transmittal (cover letter) and send both the report and the letter to your instructor.
There are two documents required to complete this assignment. The first is the report. The second is the Transmittal Letter (next page).
Part One: Recommendation Report
Keep in mind that all reports are intended to solve problems. A recommendation report tends to be longer than a proposal and must include recommendations that are based on evidence presented and interpreted in the document. A recommendation report could be prepared in an academic environment as the outcome of research or it could be used on the job by decision makers as the basis or even justification for decisions that would affect business.
Recommendation reports have a particular structure that you will need to follow. See ‘Report and Proposal Content’ PDF in week 8 course materials for a detailed outline of the report structure.
Format for Report:
Letter of Transmittal
Title page (report format)
Abstract (one-two paragraphs)
Table of contents
Introduction that provides background and context
Problem statement/question you are investigating
Methods: clearly explains and summarizes your research methods
Solution(s): work plan/timeline/cost, etc. benefits of solution; evidence for your solutions
Conclusion (summary of overall report)
Recommendations: summary of preferred solutions to problem and a call to action
Reference list (APA format)
APA style in-text citations; Heading organization; Numbered lists or bullets ; Graphics, visuals, illustrations
Part Two: Letter of Transmittal (p271 in textbook)
The letter of transmittal is the first document or a cover letter addressed to the intended reader of the report. The letter should present and introduce the report and its content in 250-300 words.
Format for Letter of Transmittal:
Begin with a short paragraph of a few sentences that set up the context for the attached document.
Next write a brief paragraph that highlights the main contents of the report.
Then write a brief paragraph acknowledging any others who have assisted you or sources that have been helpful.
Conclude with a request for action such as the opportunity to discuss the recommendations.
Submission Format: Business letter format; first document of report (same attachment as report)
Grading Rubric for Recommendation Report Assignment (20%)
Letter of Transmittal & Abstract (prefatory pages)
Introduces report and context for report
Summary of main points
Call for action
Abstract /5
Introduction:
Identifies readership/audience and needs
Purpose of proposal
Description of situation
Definition of any key terms
Problem statement or question
Cost/consequences of problem (summary)
Approach to research and finding solutions (summary)
Summarize why you are the right person to do the research and the work /6
Analysis of Problem
Explains problem in detail
Causes
Impact /5
Scope of research
What you will do/discuss; what you will not do/discuss
Current/potential limitations of research /3
Best Solution(s)
Discussion of best solution
Summary of your own research to date
Reasons why this is best solution/benefits (backed by evidence/stats/ examples, etc.) /6
Work plan
Stages of project with time lines for completing each
Costs to reader/company/potential clients /3
Conclusion
Concise summary of facts (major points) presented in report /2
Recommendations
Actions to be taken based on conclusion of report/ call to action /2
Format / Style
Use of headings, lists – parallelism
Clear, grammatical sentences
In text citations for quotations—APA style
List of references in APA style /6
Demonstrates critical thinking
Displays higher level thinking throughout
Information is logical and realistic
Analysis, solutions, recommendations are creative, innovative, thoughtful
/5
TOTAL: /40
