Getting the Most from Business Documents


Overview/Description
Target Audience
Expected Duration
Lesson Objectives
Course Number



Overview/Description
How often have you or one of your colleagues stayed at work late to finish an important report or proposal to meet a deadline? Then two days later you receive a call from the intended recipient asking you where the report is. You faxed it over and it got lost in their fax room. Now you've missed the benefit of having met your deadline. This familiar scenario illustrates the importance of selecting an appropriate document type and delivery method for your written business documents. "Getting the Most from Business Documents" explains the different business document types such as memos, reports, and proposals and the best uses for each. The course shows you how to align the message content, document type, and delivery method--Internet, fax, mail, courier, and so on--so that your business documents receive the right level of attention and achieve their designated purpose. Independent topics address five of the most commonly used business documents. You work hard on your business writing. Don't waste that effort with careless choice of document type or inappropriate delivery method. Learn how to prepare, lay out, and deliver business documents that reflect well on you and your company.

Target Audience
Anyone who does any kind of business writing at work, from e-mail and memos to reports and proposals

Expected Duration (hours)
4.0

Lesson Objectives

Selecting the Right Document Type

  • recognize the benefits of selecting appropriate document types to deliver your written messages.
  • select the best document types for hypothetical business message functions.
  • indicate the effective delivery method to use for a variety of communication situations.
  • Document Use and Appearance

  • recognize the value of becoming familiar with the layout considerations that guide different business documents.
  • examine examples of business e-mail to determine if the use and content are appropriate.
  • identify key uses of a memo.
  • select examples of appropriate content for business memos.
  • order examples of layout elements of an effective business letter.
  • analyze a business letter to determine if it contains the appropriate elements and layout.
  • identify key factors for preparing a report.
  • identify the content of the sectional elements of a report.
  • match textual examples from a report with section elements.
  • sequence the steps for writing a proposal.
  • apply steps for preparing a proposal to provide business services for a hypothetical external customer.
  • Course Number:
    COMM0016