12.1 Introduction

Business reports provide organizations with useful insights to determine how the organization is performing. They fall into different categories including informational, analytical, formal and informal. Within those categories, there are many types of reports written over a fiscal year in most organizations. The table below provides a list of some common types and reports and their functions.

This chapter highlights some common business reports and guidelines on their organization. As you read and use these guidelines, remember that these are guidelines, not commandments. Different companies, professions, and organizations have their own varied guidelines for reports, and you will have to adapt your writing accordingly.

Activity 12.1 describes some of the reports you might come across in business.

^{Activity 12.1 | Types of Reports}