How to Write a Business Progress Report

Business progress reports are an overall analysis of the progress of a particular business in relation to its originally outlined business goals and a projection for the next year. Business reports are typically presented annually to shareholders and board members to inform them of the overall progress and uses for their investments. When drafting a business report it is vital to remain complete, precise and informative.

Instructions

1. Outline the necessary components of the report and add in all the facts and figures for each section. The order may include: annual overview, liability report, asset management, tax management, profits and losses.

2. Draft each section of the report using specific facts and figures. Avoid generalities as they are meaningless to investors.

3. Honestly reflect any shortcomings. While no one likes to present a negative review, these are essential facts that investors must know. Remember to keep the information fact-based and consider offering a sentence or two about projections for improving those areas of the business in the next fiscal year.

4. Ask at least two other employees at your same level or higher to review the report and offer feedback for any areas that seem to be lacking.

5. Proofread the report carefully, as it will be distributed to numerous superiors. Remember that appearances are everything in the business world, so the report should be error-free.

References

• "How to Write Reports and Proposals"; Patrick Forsyth; 2000.