Writing Reports For Business SCM & OPM Programs - 7th Edition

DECEMBER 2021
Writing Guidelines for

Case Analysis Reports
Research Reports
&
Doing Presentations
for Supply Chain
&
Operations Management Programs
7th Edition N BISHOP

PROFESSOR – BUSINESS-SUPPLY CHAIN PROGRAMS
Lawrence Kinlin School of Business – Fanshawe College – London Ontario
Writing Reports & Doing Presentations for Business
Guidelines for Students in the Business-Supply Chain & Operations Management Programs
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Writing
or
Research Reports
and
Doing
Presentations
For
Business Programs
Guidelines for Students in the

Business-Supply Chain & Supply Chain & Logistics
& Operations Management Programs
7th Edition - 2021
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This Page Left blank intentionally
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Table of Contents
Section Content/Topic Page
Introduction
Introduction 6
Background 8
Overview and Purpose 10
The Role You Play – Case Analysis 11
What is a Case Study/Analysis? 12
Writing The Case Analysis 12
Writing your Report 16
Cover Page 18
Example – Academic Cover Sheet 18
Example – Professional Cover Sheet 19
Leader Page 20
Table of Contents 21
Executive Summary 22
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format 22
Writing a Good Executive Summary–Guidelines for Students 23
Situational Analysis/Background Information
Format and Style – Case Analysis Reports 26
Issues Identification 28
Problem Statement/Main or Immediate Issue 28
Other Issues 28
Assumptions 29
Environmental Analysis 30
Strength, Weakness, Opportunity & Weakness Analysis (SWOT) 30
Score Analysis 34
Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal & 37
Environmental Analysis (PESTEL) 30
Other Analytical Tools to Consider 30
Advantages and Disadvantages 36
Recommendations 37
Potential/Alternative Recommendations 37
Final Recommendation 38
Implementation Timeline 39
Conclusion 40
Bibliography 40
Citing and Citations 40
Research Reports
Introduction 43
The Role you Play - Research Reports 43
Differences Between Research Reports and Case Analysis Reports 44
What is a Research Report? 44
Format and Style – Research Reports 46
Cover Page 48
Example – Academic Cover Sheet 48
Example – Professional Cover Sheet 49
Leader Page 51
Table of Contents 52
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Executive Summary 53
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format 53
Writing a Good Executive Summary–Guidelines for Students 55
Report Introduction 57
Research Methodology 57
Research Detail Information 58
Conclusion 59
Graphics Tables and Charts in Reports
Information and Guidelines 60
Using Graphics in your Report 64
Using Charts and Tables in your Report 66
Examples of Tables in Reports 67
Example of Charts in Reports 68
Presentations
Introduction 76
Points to Remember 77
Word Count 77
Bullet Points 77
Backgrounds & Colour 77
Type Style and Size 78
Animation 78
Top Ten Slide Tips 79
Conclusion
Conclusion 83
Appendices & Charts 88
Appendix A - Comparison 90
Appendix B – Case Preparation Assistants 91
Appendix C – Case Preparation Charts 94
Appendix D – Presentation Preparation/Planning Chart 99
Appendix E – Presentation Criteria Chart 100
Bibliography 102
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Introduction
This document has been created to assist students in the Supply Chain Programs in the
Lawrence Kinlin School of Business at Fanshawe College. The purpose of the document
is to show students how to create professional business reports and presentations
which are different that the reports most students are used to creating in an academic
environment.
You will notice things that are different than you have been shown previously, and some
personal preferences from the author who has substantial experience in creating reports
for employers and clients during his career.
It should also be noted, that this document is also being created to reduce the concerns
voiced by students in Supply Chain courses over the years regarding the difference in
expectations from various professors. This document/guideline should eliminate many of
the concerns and provide a guideline that students can take forward throughout their
careers.
As you read through this document, and take courses within the Lawrence Kinlin School
of Business, understand that some professors have their own preferences and have
developed report writing/case analysis formats that they are comfortable with, this
document was not created to supersede their styles and expectations, rather it has been
developed for the specific Supply Chain courses that use case analysis and report writing
as mainstays of the course content and evaluation.
This document has been provided to existing professors and instructors and will be
provided to new instructors teaching in the programs.
Traditionally the Supply Chain program has utilized the “Case Writing Guidelines”
adapted from a guideline created by the MASCO Leadership Program in Operations
Management at the Eli Broad Graduate School of Management, Michigan State
University, as well as the guidelines created for case analysis by the Purchasing
Management Association of Canada (became Supply Chain Management Association
and now is Supply Chain Canada). This document utilizes information and components
of both guidelines, but has added additional components to consider. The Supply Chain
Programs acknowledge that substantial work has been put into these documents and
does not wish to diminish the importance of considering the referenced documents, the
information they provide is invaluable, however for the purposes of these guidelines we
acknowledge their existence and importance, but feel the additional expectations outlined
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provides students with the ability to create reports and case analysis more in line with the
professional appearance that is expected in a business environment.
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Background
All programs offered by the Lawrence Kinlin School of Business (LKSB) are required by
college and the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) policies
to be reviewed once every five years. LKSB adheres to this guideline as well as the
college guideline to review each program annually.
The annual program review is done in two phases, one review by the faculty teaching
within the program who review content, grading methodology, voiced student concerns
and standardization of the delivery of the courses in the program. The second phase is
that of a Community Advisory Committee which is made up of practitioners in the specific
discipline, in this case Supply Chain Management and other interested parties who are
impacted by the Supply Chain. This group is responsible for providing information on
current trends, practices and also provide the Program Co-ordinator and LKSB
Management with their expectations of students when they graduate from the perspective
of an employer.
This perspective is invaluable, providing the college and specifically the programs with
opportunities to modify/adjust course content specifically, but also to ensure that the skill-
sets required beyond the technical skills from the courses are being provided. One of the
continually mentioned skills this document is focusing on the written communication
portion of the requirement.
Throughout your academic career, here at Fanshawe and previously in Secondary School
(High School), perhaps in another college program, or a University program or perhaps if
you worked prior to coming to this program, you had been instructed to write reports and
case studies in an Academic format, which could have included the requirement to
double-space narratives, have 1” margins and such other requirements.
These are not to be totally forgotten, however we now need to expand this knowledge
and discuss how to take this knowledge and create professional looking, business style
reports. These guidelines have been in an effort to provide consistency in report writing,
as well as to meet the expectations of the external Program Advisory and Community
Advisory Councils that meet regularly to review our programs and the professional
requirements/trends in the marketplace.
Throughout this document, reference will be made to the “Case Study

Guideline/Worksheet” (Unkown, 2007, revised 2013) that is used extensively in the Lawrence
Kinlin School of Business, a copy is available on the individual course websites and the
Supply Chain Programs main website under content. Also referenced in this document
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will be the Case Analysis Guidelines (Unknown, Unknown revised 2013 (N. Bishop)) from the Supply
Chain Management Association (now known as Supply Chain Canada), a copy of which
is also available on the individual course websites and the Supply Chain Programs main
site under content.
Case Analysis is used in the Supply Chain Programs to simulate real-life situations that
will allow you to utilize and apply the knowledge/concepts learned to solve problems. This
is the beginning of the transformation discussed above and will require you as a student
to show your problem solving skills, a key component of the skills required by the
profession and employers. The intent of the case analysis utilization is to also simulate
the functionality of teams and project groupings similar to those you would experience in
any working environment, including pre-determined progress points where a partially
completed analysis is required. It is expected that the analysis at the progress point is a
compilation of the previous progress points, so that by the last progress point your
analysis is about 80-90% complete.
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Overview & Purpose
There will be/can be two types of reports you will be involved with during your study in the
Lawrence Kinlin School of Business, these are:
1. Case Analysis Reports

• Based on a case document provided by your professor
2. Research Reports
• Based on a specific need or issue provided by an external client
(exponential learning opportunity)
When writing reports is important to you as a student when you enter the workplace that
the skills learned here writing professional looking reports will be beneficial to both you
and your employer.
You will be required to prepare case analysis/problem analysis or research reports for
your supervisors or management which must reflect the professionalism you bring to the
organization. It is important that you understand the need to produce professional looking,
business styled reports. Business styled reports are different that report you have been
used to writing while in the academic realm, so these guidelines have been created for
you to use and reference while in classes within the Supply Chain Programs .
As you may have used/will be using the Case Writing Guidelines in other courses, it has
been mapped to the expectations outlined in this document. This document also includes
additional information that is to be utilized in your report writing. (See Appendix A)
Writing reports is never an easy or simple task, however, if you consider this as a project,
as you may have been taught/will be taught in Project Management, the best place to
start is at the beginning, so that is where we shall begin these guidelines.
The majority of the report writing to be done is based on the analysis of a case study, so
it is important that before you even begin to read and analysis the case study you consider
what your role is in the analysis, whether in a group setting or an individual analysis you
need to be in the right mind set to complete the analysis, the next section will assist you
in determining what your role is.
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The Role you play – Case Analysis
In the beginning as you begin to read and understand the case analysis/report to be
written in to always remember your role, the role that works best for you, whether
individually or within a group. In many cases the best approach to this is to consider
yourself as an external consultant who has been engaged to assist the organization work
through the issue(s) and direct them to a solution. If you consider your role as the
“outsider”, then the expertise you bring to the table is what you use to resolve the issue(s)
within the case analysis.
One of the skills that we are being requested to emphasis throughout the program is the
ability to think strategically, which means that you have to understand the situation, but
also have the ability to consider the consequences of your recommendation on the
organization. Strategic thinking also considers impacts and potential issues not always
directly related to the problem/issue within the case. Think of this as “thinking outside the
box”.
The ability to take on another role is sometimes difficult for students to comprehend, and
in reality it is not unachievable. It requires you to discard your inhibitions to be able to look
at the information presented, in the case or in the group to put forward your thoughts and
ideas.
Now that you have become the consultant for the review/analysis, you need to make
notes on the information provided. This provides you with the opportunity to review your
notes, organize them, research them as necessary and then create a report.
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What is a Case Study/Analysis?
A case study is a puzzle that has to be solved. The first thing to remember about a
case study is that it is a story about a problem which you are trying to s olve.
You are a detec tive if you wish, looking f or clues s o that you c an s olve the
issue pres ented.
A c as e will generally provide enough information to give the readers an

understanding what the problem is and, after thinking about it can analyzing the
information, the readers should be able to come up with a proposed solution.
Cases used in the Lawrence Kinlin School of Business are based on true life examples,
either ones that the author/professor has been personally involved or ones that the
professor has obtained from reputable case publishing sources, like Ivey Publishing at
Western University, Harvard University, or any number of other reputable academic
sources
Writing the Case Analysis – the Writer’s Perspective
Authors of Cases are creating a story for those who are analyzing the case. The following
information describes what the author (writer) of the case is trying to accomplish.
Describe the problem or case question you want the reader to be aware of.
In a detective story, the crime happens right at the beginning and the detective has
to put together the information to solve it for the rest of the story. In a case, you can
start by raising a question. You can, for example, quote someone you interviewed.
For example, suppose you interviewed a tourist official and she told you she thought
more people should be interested in visiting, and she can’t understand why they
don’t come. Then you could write something like this,
The historic town of XX is located in the mountains of country X. The town

tourism supervisor, Mrs. Joan Smith, said that she thought "many more people
should visit here, but they just don’t come. I don’t know why
– maybe we don't have the right kinds of places for them to eat or sleep and
it's too far to travel in one day from the nearest big city."
The case writers wondered what would have to happen in order to make the
town more attractive to tourists.
The statement - The case writers wondered what would have to happen in order to
make the town more attractive to tourists – is the issue yare trying to solve. It is often
called the Problem Statement or Main Issue. You ask this question because you are
going to provide an answer in your Final Recommendation. What your introduction
does is give clues to the reader about what they should be thinking about.
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Organizing the Report
You have been assigned a case analysis or research project, have read the instruction
or case document (as applicable) and are preparing your report, this can an important
component of the overall presentation of your thoughts, research and recommendations,
so we have proved further details on the format and organization of the report are
provided in the following section – Reports.
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Case Analysis
Reports
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This section will detail the requirements, expectations and format of your final
report. It is important to understand and remember that Case Analysis Reports are
specific to an issue, where you are resolving and recommending a plan and
solution to the issue based on the information provided to you in the Case
Document as well as your understanding and interpretation of the materials
presented in your courses in the program of study
Writing your Report
When writing reports for the Supply Chain Programs the formatting that is considered
the professional approach is as follows:
• Cover Page
o Blank Page ( back of Cover Page)
• Leader Page
o Blank Page (back of Leader Page)
• Table of Contents
o Blank Page (back of Table of Contents)
• Executive Summary
o Blank Page (only if Executive Summary is one page in length)
• Leader Page (not always necessary, but can be used to separate the sections)
o Leader pages can also be used to separate sections of your report. If
desired
▪ These are normally used in large reports
o If second Leader Page is used, then a blank page is required
• Situational Analysis/Background
o Different than Issue Identification
• Issue Identification
o This is a broad heading that can be used to identify the two types of
issues usually experienced in a Case Analysis Report, which are:
▪ Immediate Issue
• (Also referred to as Main Issue or Problem Statement)
▪ Other Issues/Concerns
• (Also referred to as Symptoms of the Main Issue)
• Assumptions
• Environmental Analysis
o (Also referred to Analysis/Discussion Considerations)
• Potential Recommendations
o (Also referred to as Possible Recommendations/Alternatives)
• Final Recommendation and Action Plan
• Implementation Schedule Chart
o (also referred to as Implementation Timeline or Recommendation
Implementation Timeline)
• Concluding Comments
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o (Also referred to as Conclusion)

• Bibliography/Works Cited
o (Also referred to as References)
Each of these components will be discussed individually on the following pages, with
examples and specific instructions as deemed necessary
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Cover Page
The beginning of every report is the Cover Page. This is the first thing that a supervisor
or management is going to see (your professor will see this first also), so it is important
that it has the look and feel of a professional report.
The first thing you need to do, is to create a file for the report, as you need the file to be
able to create a cover page.
Creating a cover page is/or can be very simple. In Microsoft Word, there are a number of
pre-designed templates that you can use. These are located in Microsoft Word under the
Insert drop-down menu. Look in the upper left hand corner where there are three
possibilities – Cover Page – Blank Page – Page Break. Select Cover Page and number
of templates will be shown (17 in Office 2016), click on the template you wish to use and
it will automatically be inserted at the front of your document.
You do not need to use one of the templates, you can create your own, just remember it
is not an academic cover sheet you are creating it is a professional cover sheet.
Example – Academic
Project/Case Name Case Name

Usually Centered on Page
Student Name
Student Name Student Names and Numbers
Student Name Usually centered on sheet, below case name
Student Name
Student Name
Professor Name Professor Name, Course Number, and date are usually in lower
Course Number right corner or centered on page at bottom
Date
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Example – Professional
The cover page for these guidelines is an example of a professional report, created by a
Microsoft Word Template, but if you wish to create your own, on the following page is an
example of professional looking cover sheet created without using a template.
Case A simple design, aligned to the right of the page

Writing
Report The Report Title is bold and larger than the other type sizes on the
page
Always use the same type font for all words

Prepared for
(Professor’s Name)
Presented on
(Date assignment is due)
Whichever design you use, a template or your own design, remember the following when
you are creating a Cover page:
• It should be professional in appearance

• The typefaces should all be the same
• It should be easy to read
• It should be minimalistic
Graphics on the Cover Page
You can add graphics to the cover page, as long as they are relevant to the overall content
of the report. Pictures and graphics can be loaded from your own pictures or designs, or
from websites that offer graphics.
In some instances, if the company name provided in the case is real, you can use their
logo, but remember to cite the location in your bibliography
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Leader Page
A Leader Page is a page that repeats the title of the report, but not necessarily in the
same format as a cover sheet, it is generally more minimalistic and includes the author’s
names (student names) and for our purposes in the program the student numbers of the
group
Case Analysis Report Title can be Centred or offset to left or right

Title should be a minimum of 14pt type size and bold
Prepared by
Student Name and Number
Student Name and Number Author names should match the title placement, and be in a
Student Name and Number smaller type size, usually the same size and typeface as the
Student Name and Number report
Student Name and Numbers
Date Submitted Always include the submission date (due date)
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Table of Contents
Not everyone agrees that a professional report requires a Table of Contents, a practice
the author disagrees with, as he feels that a Table of Contents acts as a reference for the
reader and allows future readers to go to specific sections of the report, so for reports
submitted in the Supply Chain Programs you are required to include a table of contents,
unless otherwise directed by the individual professor.
Tables of Contents can be done in a chart format, with or without the lines
Example of Table of Contents with Lines
NOTE: The column headed “Section” is only applicable if you are breaking your report
into sections

Executive Summary 1
Immediate Issue 3
Additional Issues and Concerns 5
Analysis 8
Example of Table of Contents without Lines

Executive Summary 1
Immediate Issue 3
Analysis 8
You can also utilize the Table of Contents creation tool within Microsoft Word which is
located under the Reference Tab in the Upper Task Bar.
In the top taskbar in a Microsoft Word document is a tab “references”, click on this to
open where you will see six (6) squares as follows:
• Insert Footnote
• Insert Citation
• Insert Caption
• Mark Entry
• Mark Citation
Select the first square and follow the instructions to create the table.
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Executive Summaries
Executive Summaries are exactly that, a summary of your report. It is designed to pique
the interest of the reader and give them a much summarized review of the report. The
Executive Summary is the first formal page of the report, and you can repeat portions of
your report in the Executive Summary. Many a report has been discarded due to a poorly
written Executive Summary. Generally no longer than two pages, preferably a single page,
it gives the reader the following information:
• A challenge Statement
o Should be client focused
• Little background of organization
o Type of organization
o What the business does
o Length of time in business (if known)
• The goal
• A quick overview of the research methodology
o Techniques
o Sources referenced/used
o Possibly research questions
• Conclusions and Recommendations
o Include all but in summary format (McCombs, n.d.)
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format
By Justin Buck, eHow Contributor
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format thumbnail many reviewers

will weed out proposals based on a poor executive summary.
The American Psychological Association (APA) standards for writing are applied
to most written pieces. Form and style go hand in hand, and a well-written paper
could be overlooked if not completed in proper form. When writing for executive
summaries, this can be particularly important. Because the executive summary is
written to articulate the main points of the work as a whole, it is considered the
most important portion of its paper or report. While not always required, the
executive summary is mostly required in lengthy research dissertations or in
government and private sector reports and requests.
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Instructions - Writing the Executive Summary

By Justin Buck, eHow Contributor,
Format your summary to fit general APA writing standards. This will mean 10 to 12
point Times New Roman (or similar) font double-spaced on standard (8.5"x11")
paper with 1" margins. Type "Executive Summary" centered at the top of the page
with no boldface or italicizing (and no quotes).
NOTE: For Business Reports, the titles do not need to be centred, but if you prefer
this format then it is acceptable to centre the headings.
NOTE: For the reports written for this program, they do not need to be double-
spaced. Business Reports usually are not double-spaced
Type the body of your summary directly below.
• Write a brief summary, not exceeding one page, which gives an overview
of your report's contents as well as its conclusion or recommendations.
Include all your most important points for those who may read only the
summary and not the report in its entirety.
• Insert your summary just after the report's title page and just before the body
of the paper.
• Your executive summary should make a lasting impression in one page or
less.
Proof your Executive Summary. Remove extraneous words, slicing the summary
down to the most powerful points of the report and the concluding
recommendations. Butler University suggests an Executive Summary no longer
than 120 words, but business standards allow for one full page of text. If you can
write short without sacrificing content, do it.
Tips & Warnings
• When writing for a grant proposal, highlight the big three: who you serve,
how you serve them, and why it matters. Don't forget to include the
amount of the request and what it will do for the program.
• When writing for business, highlight cost savings, profit maximization,
and other potentialities without getting bogged down in complexities like
methodology and justification.
• When writing academically, ask yourself if an executive summary is
even necessary. Executive Summaries make recommendations, and
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with most short academic papers (1 to 40 pages), the abstract is

sufficient to describe the report.
▪ For the purpose of your report, you need to include a synopsis of
your Final Recommendation.
• Be careful not to load your executive summary with technical jargon. Your
executive summary should read easily and pique the interest of the reader.
http://www.ehow.com/how_7931940_write-executive-summary-apa-format.html#ixzz2ozLf36vo
Another article on Executive Summaries, found in an old file, citation unknown.
Writing a Good Executive Summary - Guidelines for Students
Writing an Executive Summary is very similar to writing any other sort of Summary, in that
its main purpose is to condense, simplify and highlight a larger document. An Executive
Summary, however, is usually written intended for an audience that does not have time
to read the entire document. It is usually read by key decision maker/s, such as
Executives or policy makers, regarding whatever the proposal or report addresses, and
the Summary aims to convince or persuade the audience to take certain actions.
An Executive Summary is sometimes referred to synonymously with a scholarly Abstract,

although an Abstract differs slightly in its purpose and function. An Abstract in a scholarly
report is simply a shorter version or overview of the entire document. It is like an extraction
of the whole document and retains the general sense of unity as the original. The
Executive Summary, on the other hand, does more than give a Summary or overview. It
lends more insight into the significant messages in the proposal or report, and the
conclusion and justification of that proposal. The Executive Summary informs the reader
what is being proposed in the report, makes recommendations, and tells the reader what
response is instigated by the report.
The Executive Summary is usually no longer than 10% of the main document, which can
be anywhere from 1-10 pages, depending on the length of the entire report. It will most
often follow a cover page, and will include several elements. The elements used in or
omitted from any given Executive Summary will vary according to each proposal or
report's intended audience and purpose. Elements commonly included in Executive
summaries include purpose and scope of document, methods, results, conclusion,
recommendations and any other supportive information. Again, the Summary will
highlight the proposal recommendations for action by listing or outlining various goals and
objectives, and making justifications for the recommendations. The conclusion will
summarize research findings and analysis of the research that then lead to the reasoning
for specific recommendations mentioned in the proposal or report.
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In order to write a good Executive Summary, you must understand the function of the
Executive Summary. To reiterate the guidelines above, the Executive Summary's function
is to give readers essential contents of the main document in 1-10 pages. The Summary
will preview the main points of the document and enable readers to build a mental
framework for organizing and comprehending the details of the document. It will help
readers determine key results and recommendations in the document, and hopefully
induce an initial response.
Writing a strong Executive Summary is quite feasible if a student is careful about

preserving its traditional purpose and function to aid readers in comprehension and cause
initial persuasion. Executive summaries should not be written until after research is
complete. Before writing an Executive Summary, scan research to determine what the
content, length and structure of the report will be. Highlight key points or main ideas, and
determine the central theme or purpose of the report. Review research and determine
what the major concepts and ideas are. Group ideas in a logical and coherent way by
constructing a point form outline of the Summary before proceeding to the actual
Summary.
Edit the outline several times before going on to the actual Summary, eliminating any
secondary, irrelevant or inconsequential points or ideas. Decide when bullets, subtitles
and bolding or some other form or organizational structure will help "clean up" the
Summary or make it easier to read. Remember to make the Summary clear, and use
personal judgment upon reading it. Write it in your own words but use a professional style,
as Executives and policy makers will be reading it.
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Format and Style – Case Analysis Reports
Pages should have a header and footer (page numbers can be in the footer). These can
be easily setup using Microsoft Word. In the upper ribbon on your page, under INSERT
there are tabs to set up Header and Footer templates for your report.
As you write your analysis, there is not generally considered a limitation on the number
of pages, other than in the Executive Summary, however you need to word the analysis
in your own words, not by copying complete sections of the case document provided to
you. You are not provide an abridged version of the facts provided, you are expected to
provide insight, identify problems and offer solutions.
Generally case analysis and reports are written in the third person (we rather than I) and
are not the place to provide your opinion, rather you need to stick to the facts, as reports
are meant to be objective, provide a goal and action plan. I cannot emphasis enough the
need for your report to be professional in appearance, but also in the language used to
convey the information you wish to leave the reader with. This means the use of
abbreviations and acronyms without proper introduction, slang, “text style words” etc., will
not be tolerated.
Professional reports also do not have spelling and grammatical errors in them.
Microsoft Word software has excellent correction features highlight the potential concern
by using a series of coloured wavy (squiggly) lines – Red for spelling errors, Blue for
spacing errors and Green for grammar errors.
Something to always considering writing professional reports (also applicable to

presentations) is to not use “Cute Commentary”. This would include phrases such as –
▪ Let us Assume
▪ If it goes wrong then why does…
▪ Let us try and get him/her to change
▪ Why did you not tell me/us
▪ Come together or work together
As you write the report you should be asking yourself does it flow in a way that should
make sense to the reader, in other words are all the thoughts and ideas in a logical order
that allows the report, report sentences and statements to make sense while building on
the previous statements or information.
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Spelling is easily corrected when using Microsoft Word, as the software has several
dictionary options available to you. For the courses in the Supply Chain & Operations
programs, we use the ENGLISH (CANADA) dictionary. The dictionary can be easily
changed from the default ENGLISH (UNITED STATES) by highlight the dictionary which
appears in the lower left of your screen, left clicking on it and changing the dictionary
which appears in the drop-box that appears – always remember to also make this the
default language for your report by clicking on the box in the lower left of the drop-box.
Have you proofread your report, and have you asked the members of the group to also
proofread it for you. Many marks have been lost because this was not done, remember
you cannot rely on the auto-correct feature of your computer to fix all the problems. When
you are employed and submit a report with errors it reflects very badly on your work habits
and ability to perform tasks.
The same requirement for proofreading applies to typefaces, many times groups work
individually on sections of the report and submit an electronic copy to the person
assembling the report. This has often results in several typefaces and type sizes
appearing in the same report. Like the proofreading check this, and have the other
members of the group check this.
Several of the typefaces available to you in the Microsoft Word software can be used for
your report. The only requirement is that is it easy to read and the letters are all the same
type size. A personal preference is the Arial typeface, but Times Roman is acceptable,
as are Calibri and Century Gothic as examples. NOTE: the APA articles earlier in this
guideline document state that reports should be written in Times Roman typefaces, or
something similar, but you can use any easy to read typeface, such as Arial, Garamond
etc.
In case analysis reports for Supply Chain programs the profession has for many years
utilized a format created for the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (which
became the Supply Chain Management Association, but as of 2019 is known as Supply
Chain Canada) which uses the following headings:
• Immediate Issue
o Also identified as Main Issue or Problem Statement
• Basic Issues/Other Issues
• Assumptions
• Analysis
• Recommendations
o Also identified as Alternatives or Potential Recommendations
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• Final Recommendation
This format, which appears to be uncomplicated, can be considered as a good starting

point as you read the case being analyzed. If you take each of the headings and consider
the additional information provided below, you will have a reasonable amount of
information to begin your group discussions
Situational Analysis/Background Information
Issue Identification
You can also combine the Issues (Main and Basic) into a single section identified as Issue
Identification, which identifies to the reader that this section deals with the issues you
have identified from the case documentation provided. Use headings within this section
to separate the actual type of issue being identified (Main or Basic/Other)
• Immediate Issue (Main Issue/Problem Statement)

o This is the glaring issue of the case
o It is often identified in the first or second paragraph
o It is not a symptom of the issue, but is the issue
o Ask why the issue became an issue
• Basic Issues/Other Issues
o Also considered as underlying issues or associated issues
o Consider these as possible reasons for the Immediate issue
▪ Symptoms that contribute to the main issue
▪ Ask the question why or how the issues became a problem
Assumptions
Assumptions are Things you think are important to be considered, but not identified in the
case provided. This is the area where you put forth your assumptions based on previous
courses and personal knowledge that you think are relevant to the future analysis of the
case.
The formal definition of an assumption is as follows, according to the Merriam Webster
dictionary, Assumptions are defined as
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assumption
A) The taking up of a person into heaven
B) Capitalized
▪ August 15 observed in commemoration of the Assumption of the
Virgin Mary
o A taking to or upon oneself <the assumption of a new position>
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o The act of laying claim to or taking possession of something

▪ “The assumption of power”
o Arrogance, pretension
A) An assuming that something is true
B) A fact or statement (as a proposition, axiom, postulate, or notion) taken
for granted
o The taking over of another's debts
For the purpose of assumptions in writing of report, we consider that the following is the
definition of assumptions that should be used –
A) An assuming that something is true

B) A fact or statement (as a proposition, axiom, postulate, or notion) taken
for granted
As a student writing a case analysis, the concept of assumptions is based on information

provided in the lectures and discussions that relate to the subject matter but may not be
directly identified in the case provided. It is your opportunity to apply (postulate) a thought
that you feel will impact your analysis and recommendation.
Assumptions can be a belief or idea that can be applied with or without proof/evidence,
but must be identified in this section of your report. You must also utilize the assumptions
and show where they impact your analysis and decision making.
• Analysis (Information Summary/Issue Analysis)

o Also referred to as Information Summary or Issue Analysis
▪ Take the information from the case and start to analysis the issue(s)
o Can also be considered as background information on the issue and how
they became the issue
o This is the area where you complete the following
• Environmental Analysis (Environmental Scanning)
This is also referred to as Environmental Scanning, either term is acceptable.

Environmental scanning is the monitoring, evaluating, and disseminating of information
from the external and internal environments to key people within the organization. Its
purpose is to identify strategic factors – those external and internal elements that will
determine the future of the organization.
According to Web Finance Inc. an Environmental Analysis is an examination of the

possible effects on a company’s potential, capacity and operational abilities from
external or internal forces in the business environment.
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Another view from the United Kingdom defines Environmental Analysis as a method
to assist in the development and awareness of potential threats in to the future, and it
is an essential tool used in planning and forecasting by examining the micro and macro
environmental influences that may directly or indirectly affect a firm.
According to the Society for Human Resources Management, Environmental

Scanning is a technique used by organizations to systematically collect information of
the environment It operates in order to identify opportunities and threats. An
organization assesses its capabilities in order to respond to the information gathered
by changing its strategies and plans whenever there is a need for change.
Analysis of the case does not mean that you need to utilize one of the several tools
available for analysis, as often the review of the in formation provided and the content of
the course can provide you with the basis of analyzing the issues at hand as presented
in the case or “live client”.
Analysis Tools to consider
There are several tools that can be used in the analysis of a business (case study) the
most common are – Strength, Weakness, Opportunity & Threat Analysis also referred
as a SWOT Analysis and the other popular tool is the – Political, Economic, Social,
Technological, Legal and Environmental Analysis, commonly referred to as a PESTEL
Analysis. These two common and popular analysis tools are explained in greater detail
below.
There are several other tools available to you to use in your analysis, if you choose
additional analysis tools that is fine, however whether it is SWOT, PESTEL or another it
is important that you provide a short description of the tool and its purpose in using as it
relates to your analysis, so that the reader understands why it is being used.
• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats (SWOT)
After the title, a brief explanation of the tool and why you have selected it for this analysis
should be included prior to discussing the components of the tool being used.
o SWOT Analysis is applicable to both internal and external factors in all

four components, they may not be present, but they should be considered
o SWOT is an analytical framework that allows you to review the company
or situation to determine the challenges that may be faced in your
analysis.
▪ It is often used by organizations when deciding new policies,
initiatives, planning or to improve business operations
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The simplest way to conduct environmental scanning is through SWOT analysis. “SWOT”
is an acronym used to describe those particular S = Strengths, W = Weaknesses, O =
Opportunities and T = Threats that are strategic factors for a specific company. Concepts
in Strategic Management, Canadian. Ed. by Thomas Wheelen, J. David Hunger and David Wicks. Pearson
Prentice Hall, Toronto, 2005. pg. 13.
EXTERNAL - The external environment consists of variables (O & T) that are outside the
organization and not typically within the short-run control of top management. Here,
external market factors/trends are considered from two perspectives: It is common for
students to apply the P.E.S.T. Assessment (Political-legal; Economic; Socio-cultural and
Technological) when considering general external market factors currently affecting both
the organization and the industries in which it competes. Which of these present current
or future threats? Opportunities?
The second scanning perspective directed towards the external environmental focuses
on the industry. What forces drive industry competition? Are these forces the same
globally or do they vary from country to country? Here is a list of task factors to consider:
• Threat of new entrants

• Bargaining power of buyers
• Threat of substitute products or services
• Bargaining power of suppliers
• Rivalry among competing firms
• Relative power of unions, governments, special interest groups, etc.
What key factors in the immediate environment (that is, customers, competitors, suppliers,
creditors, labour unions, governments, trade associations, interest groups, local
communities, and shareholders) are currently affecting the organization? Which are
current or future threats? Opportunities?
Summarizing your O & T statements: Once a complete list of Opportunities and Strengths
has been drafted and analyzed, then they must be prioritized as to which are most
important to the organization now and in need of consideration currently vs. future. This
can be done by reorganizing your listing from #1 being the ‘most important’ to #_
representing the ‘least important’ factor.
INTERNAL - The internal environment of an organization consists of variables (S & W)

that are within the organization itself. These variables form the context in which work is
done. They include the organization’s structure, culture and resources. Key strengths
form a set of core competencies that the organization can use to gain competitive
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advantage. Always keep in mind as you identify weaknesses - that out of weaknesses
come opportunities. Here is a list of various internal factors to consider:
• Organizational Structure: How is the organization currently structured? Is

decision making centralized? Are business units (dept.’s) empowered? Is
structure clearly understood by everyone in organization? Is structure assisting in
achieving corporate objectives or does it compete with current mission, vision and
values of firm? How are other similar corporations structured?
• Organizational Culture: Is there a well-defined or emerging culture composed of
shared beliefs, expectations and values? Is the culture consistent with the current
objectives of firm?
• Organizational Resources Marketing: What is the organization’s current
marketing objectives, strategies, policies? Are they clearly stated and consistent
with organization’s vision, mission and values? How well is the organization
performing in terms of analysis of market position and marketing mix?
• Finance: What are the organization’s current financial objectives? Are they
clearly stated? How well is the organization performing in terms of financial
analysis? (Consider ratios, common size statements, and capitalization structure).
How balanced, in terms of cash flow is the company’s portfolio of products and
business? How does this firm compare with similar companies in terms of financial
performance? Are financial managers using accepted financial concepts and
techniques to evaluate and improve current corporate and divisional performance?
(Consider financial leverage and capital budgeting)
• Research and Development: What are the organization’s current R & D
objectives, strategies? Are they clearly stated and understood? Are they
consistent with the firms’ mission, vision and values? What sort of ROI does the
firm receive from the R & D?
• Operations & Logistics: What is the organization’s current
manufacturing/service objectives, strategies? Are they clearly stated and
understood? Are they consistent with the firms’ mission, vision and values? What
is the type and extent of operations capabilities of the organization? How much is
done domestically versus internationally? Is the amount of outsourcing
appropriate to be competitive? Are manufacturing or service facilities vulnerable
to natural disasters, local or national strikes, cost increases or
nationalization/control by government? Is there an appropriate mix of capital to
labour in this firm?
• Human Resource Management: What are the organization’s current HR
objectives and strategies? Are they clearly stated and understood? Are they
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consistent with the firms’ mission, vision and values? How well the organization’s
HR is performing in terms of improving the fit between the individual and the job?
How well is diversity being managed in the firm? What is the company’s position
and record on human rights? Is the HR department recruiting, selecting and hiring
appropriate applicants for jobs? Are they assisting the management in motivating,
training and evaluating employees? What is the relationship with the union? Are
Federal employment laws being upheld by the HR dept.?
• Information Systems: What is the organization’s current IS objectives and
strategies? Are they clearly stated and understood? Are they consistent with the
firms’ mission, vision and values? How well is the organization’s IS performing
in terms of providing a useful database, offering internet access and websites,
automating routine clerical operations, assisting managers in making routine
decisions, and provide information necessary for strategic decisions? What
trends are emerging from this analysis? Does IS provide the company with a
competitive advantage? How does the IS of this firm compare with similar
organizations?
• Corporate Governance, Top Management and Social Responsibility: What
is contained in a code of ethics that will guide organizational strategy? Is there a
history of ethical behaviour or the presence of a culture of ethics? How does the
organization articulate its broader social responsibility? What are the relevant
organizational stakeholders and how does the organization view their claims?
What person or group constitutes top management? What are top management’s
chief characteristics in terms of knowledge, skills, background, and style? What is
its level of involvement in the strategic management process? How well does top
management interact with lower level managers and with the board of directors?
What role do stock options play in executive compensation? Is top management
sufficiently skilled to cope with likely future challenges? How much influence does
the board have with management? Is the board comprised of a variety of people
with expertise from various areas that can assist the organization? Is ownership
concentrated or dispersed?
Summarizing your S & W statements: Once a complete list of Strengths and Weaknesses
has been drafted and analyzed, then they must be prioritized as to which are most
important to the organization now and in need of consideration currently vs. future. This
can be done by reorganizing your listing from #1 being the ‘most important’ to # -
representing the ‘least important’ factor. Remember that weaknesses can lead to
opportunities.
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EXTERNAL:
The external environment consists of variables (O & T) that are outside the organization
and not typically within control of top management. Some of the things that should/could
be considered in a SWOT external Analysis are
▪ Social
▪ Demographic
▪ Economic
▪ Technological
▪ Political/Legal
▪ Competitive
At Fanshawe, there are two different approaches of how this section should be written:
• Approach #1 – Some professors will encourage and allow students to write

opportunities that an organization may want to explore from inside and/or outside the firm.
Experience has shown us that all four components of the SWOT Analysis can be
applicable to the internal operations of an organization, remembering that weakness
identified can become opportunities. Plus possible threats that may exist inside and/or
outside the firm. Students will have to seek clarification on which approach the
professor wishes to use.
• Approach #2 – Other professors will want to keep students focused strictly on

outside factors. No internal focus will be allowed at all, so ask to keep consistent thought.
Note: the above two approaches were added in 2013 after consultation with faculty within
LKSB
SCORE ANALYSIS
Another tool that is available and reasonably popular amongst students is known as the
SCORE Analysis, which stands for
It is similar to a SWOT Analysis, but goes farther
After the title, a brief explanation of the tool and why you have selected it for this
analysis should be included prior to discussing the components of the tool being used.
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POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL, LEGAL, ENVIRONMENTAL

ANALYSIS (PESTEL)
After the title, a brief explanation of the tool and why you have selected it for this
analysis should be included prior to discussing the components of the tool being used.
o PESTEL Analysis, like the SWOT Analysis is applicable to both internal

and external factors in all six components, and like the SWOT Analysis
they may not all be present, but they should be considered.
o A discussion on the “pro’s and con’s” can be utilized as well
▪ A better title for these would be “advantages” and “disadvantages”
o Assumption should be identified at the beginning of this section
o You do not need to include all the factors in your analysis, only those
that have relevance to the case you are analysing.
o Do not include generic explanations of each category
Other Analysis Tools
There a wide variety of analytical tools available to students, and utilizing them is fine.
Remember however that they must be applicable to the analysis and report that you are
working on. If you are unsure, check with your professor to see if it is applicable for the
course and analysis. Some of the other applicable tools may applicable include:
▪ Root Cause Analysis
▪ Ishikawa Diagram (Fishbone Diagram)
o Often also referred to as the Root Cause Analysis
▪ SIPOC Analysis
o Supplier/Input/Process/Output/Customer
▪ 5 Why Analysis
▪ RACI
o Responsible/Accountable/Consulting/Informed
▪ Decision Trees
▪ Eisenhower Analysis
▪ McKinsey 7-5 Model
▪ Porter’s Five Forces
After the title of the tool being used, a brief explanation of the tool and why you have
selected it for this analysis should be included prior to discussing the components of the
tool being used.
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Advantages & Disadvantages

During the analysis phase of the project, many people like to identify the advantages
(pros) and disadvantages (cons) of the information developed. This is a good thing to
do, however it is very unprofessional to identify them as “pros & cons”. The professional
terminology for these is Advantages and Disadvantages.
Advantages are defines as:

Ad·van·tage - /ədˈvan(t)ij/ - noun
Plural noun: advantages
1. A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position.
"Companies with a computerized database are at an advantage"
Synonyms: upper hand, edge, lead, whip hand, trump card; superiority,
dominance, ascendancy, supremacy, power, mastery;
Informal - inside track, catbird seat
"They appeared to be gaining the advantage over their opponents"
•the opportunity to gain something; benefit or profit.
"You could learn something to your advantage"
Synonyms: benefit, profit, gain, good;
Informal - mileage
"There is no advantage to be gained from delaying the process"
Antonyms: detriment
•a favorable or desirable circumstance or feature; a benefit.
"The village's proximity to the town is an advantage"
Synonyms: benefit, value, good point, strong point, asset, plus, bonus,
boon, blessing, virtue;
Attraction, beauty, usefulness, helpfulness, convenience,
advantageousness, profit
"The advantages of belonging to a union"
Antonyms: disadvantage, drawback
•Tennis
A player's score in a game when they have won the first point after deuce
(and will win the game if they win the next point).
Verb
3rd person present: advantages
1. Put in a favorable or more favorable position.
https://www.google.ca/?gws_rd=ssl#q=Definition+-+Advanatages&spf=73
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Disadvantages are defined as:

Dis·ad·van·tage - /ˌdisədˈvan (t)ij/ - Noun
Plural noun: disadvantages
1. An unfavorable circumstance or condition that reduces the chances of success
or effectiveness.
"A major disadvantage is the limited nature of the data"
Synonyms: drawback, snag, downside, stumbling block, fly in the ointment,
catch, hindrance, obstacle, impediment; flaw, defect, weakness, fault, handicap,
con, trouble, difficulty, problem, complication, nuisance;
Informal - minus
"The long commute is a big disadvantage of this job"
Antonyms: benefit
Verb
3rd person present: disadvantages
1. Place in an unfavorable position in relation to someone or something else.
"We are disadvantaging the next generation"
Synonyms: drawback, snag, downside, stumbling block, fly in the ointment,
catch, hindrance, obstacle, impediment
https://www.google.ca/?gws_rd=ssl#q=disadvantages+definition&spf=399
Recommendations
In your report there will be two types or categories of Recommendations and these
should be identified as Alternatives/ Potential Recommendations and Final
Recommendation
Potential Recommendations
• Also referred to as Alternatives or Potential Recommendations for Consideration
• Can be considered as the alternatives you wish to consider
• Discuss in here the possible opportunities for improvements
o May not use all the ideas, but should list as many as you discover/create
• Consider this section as the” brainstorming” area where you determine possible
ways to improve or correct the issue(s)
o This brainstorming can be based on the facts from the case, knowledge
gained in courses, work experience and overall life skills
• Assumptions can also be identified at the beginning of this section
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• Some professors will tell you only three alternatives are necessary, this is incorrect
as you need to identify as many potential alternatives as possible that you feel may
be available.
o Sometimes there are only three or less, but most often there are more than
three
o All Alternatives/Potential Recommendations must be justified and
explained for the reader
Final Recommendation
• Can be a recommendation discussed in previous section (Potential
Recommendations)
• Can be a combination of recommendations into a single recommendation
o Can also be a single recommendation with several sub points
o Each recommendation or sub-point needs to be explained and justified
• Can be a new recommendation that was created by group discussion
• Final recommendation is generally a single comprehensive recommendation
• Final recommendations are to be in formal paragraph form, not bullet points.
• Final Recommendations must be definitive, that is this recommendation will
resolve the Main Issue identified
o Think of the Main Issue as a Question, and the Final Recommendation as
the answer to the question
• Final Recommendations include the actions required to complete the resolution of
the recommendation
o Action Items are those points in your Implementation Timeline/Schedule
that will have timing attached to them
• All Recommendations must be justified and explained for the reader
• Implementation Timeline
o The final recommendation should always include an implementation
timeline (implementation schedule)
▪ Always on one page
▪ Number the action plan items
▪ Centre the headings and marks
▪ Use a common denominator in your timeframe
o Do not mix days/weeks/months/years
▪ Be realistic in your implementation schedule
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o There are several formats than can be used for timelines, the two most
common are the chart and the Gantt Chart
o Either are acceptable, but ensure that you include all the information
o Implementation Timeline Charts require a Title
Recommendation Implementation Timeline

1 2 3 4 5 Six 1
No Action Plan Item Month Months Months Months Months Months Year
1
2
3
4
5
1 2 3 4 5 Six 1
No Action Plan Item Month Months Months Months Months Months Year
1
2
3
4
5
Whatever format is utilized for the Implementation Timeline, it needs to be realistic, and
as an example if you recommend the implementation of a large computer system, like
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), it cannot be implemented in weeks, more likely it is
to take 12 to 18 months or perhaps longer.
Conclusion – Case Analysis Report Writing
Conclusions in business reports are generally an opportunity for you to provide final
comments on your report and research. It is used as an opportunity to summarize the
major issues or problems you discovered. It is also where you can summarize your final
recommendation, relating it to the issues and problems discovered and then highlights
the action plan required, and should attempt to be a positive set of statements that will
want the reader to put your plans into action.
As you write your conclusion, keep these things in mind, people do not like negativity, so
ending on a positive note inspires individuals to seriously consider the action plan put
forth.
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What to Cite
Citations are references to materials researched and thoughts taken from this research,
it may also include direct quotations from your research. These all need to be identified
in the body of your report following the above mentioned APA guidelines.
It is important to understand that you will (should) be researching materials relevant to

the case analysis, things like
• Company information if available (remember sometimes company names are

disguised)
• Industry information
• Potential competition information
• Research on a specific topic mentioned in report
o Perhaps Six Sigma
o Software Applications
How to Cite
Citations must be included in the body of your report under APA guidelines. Other
guidelines will use footnotes and numbers to identify cited points, these are more common
in scientific reports, so are not to be used for the report being written by you.
It is suggested for type size for citations that you use a smaller type size than the report,
and that it be italicized (9 point italicized)
Bibliography
A bibliography is where you list all the sources considered in your analysis. Remember
however, that the sources listed in the bibliography need to be cited within the body of your
report.
Microsoft Word has the capability of creating Bibliographies for you, as well providing a template
which can be used for creating bibliographies. To access this function, go to the References
Section on the upper toolbar and in the middles of the toolbar is a heading “Bibliographies”, click
on this and follow the instruction.
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Research
Reports
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This section will detail the requirements, expectations, and format of your final
report. It is important to understand and remember that Research Reports are
specific to a requirement, where you are investigating and providing information
collected from a variety of sources as well as your understanding and
interpretation of the materials presented in your courses in the program of study
Introduction
Research Reports are different than Case Analysis Reports. At any given time in your
studying in the programs associated with this guideline document, you may be required
to complete a research report. This is becoming more applicable as the various courses
within the programs are utilizing the “live client” or exponential learning experience within
each program. Often, the reports written by the individual or group are shared with the
client, therefore it is important and necessary that the writing of professional reports be
addressed. This section will discuss the relative points related to the writing Research
Usually the “live client” experience is completed using groups, and even though you are
submitting your final report to the professor and the number of groups will dictate whether
the actual reports are provided to the client (like submitting a proposal to a client) or a
consolidated report will be created by the professor which summarizes the information
contained in the reports that is then submitted to the client.
The Role you Play in a Research Report
When you are involved in a Research Report, it will be based on an exponential learning
experience. The purpose of this learning experience is to improve your research, analysis
and report writing skills. As most of these experiences will completed in a group setting,
it is important to understand that you have been selected by the “live client” to conduct on
their behalf research into a specific topic or issue they are having but may not have the
time or people to complete the task/research in a timely manner.
Your role therefore is to provide this preliminary examination of the marketplace (usually)
to provide the client with an in-depth synopsis of what products and services are available
to them. You are not required to provide a recommendation to the client, they will decide
what product or service to select after the completion of their due diligence and evaluation
of the vendors identified in your report.
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Differences between Research Reports and Case Analysis Reports
There is a difference, the prime difference being that in a Research Report you are not
solving an issue (problem) you are providing the results of your investigation into a
specific topic.
As mentioned in the section predicting this one “Writing Case Analysis Reports” the focus
was un the requirements to show how the student or group is going to definitely provide
a solution for the issue provided in the Case Study Document provided. However, there
will be occasions where the exponential learning experience will actually be a request for
a solution, therefore you would write it as a Case Analysis Report.
Even if the exponential learning experience is to provide a solution to an specific problem,

there is often a need to do additional research as you look for alternatives and possibilities
that may be available to resolve the issue presented, in which case this section will also
be of value to you.
What is a Research Report?
As was mentioned in the previous paragraph, Research Reports are different. Research
Reports are a compilation of the information you gather from a wide variety of sources
such as:
• Product Websites
o Which provide details on specific products including specifications and
operating suggestions
• Search Engine Searches (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc.)
• Corporate Websites
o Which provide information on the company, their services and products
o May also provide dealers/agents in the geographic area serviced
• Library Searches
o College or University libraries have access to large databases of information
that are specific to the programs offered at the college, but also can provide
access to a larger set of databases as well
• Interviews with Company Representatives
o Can be the company that is the “live client”
o Can possibly be with representatives of providers of the product or service
▪ This needs to be approved and arranged through the professor or
Program Coordinator
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• Literature Searches
o Includes such things as
▪ Trade Publications
▪ Academic Journals
▪ Product Brochures
▪ Etc.
• Personal Experience and Knowledge
o Includes such things as
▪ Previous Educational Training
▪ Information from educational materials
• Textbooks/e-books
• PowerPoint Slides
• Professor Lecture Information
o Knowledge gained in an employment setting
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Format and Style – Research Reports
As has been shown above, Research Reports are different than Case Analysis Reports.
There are some similarities however, these are identified below. (NOTE: Some of what
you will read here is the same as used in the format of Case Analysis Format and style)
Pages should have a header and footer (page numbers can be in the footer). These can
be easily setup using Microsoft Word. In the upper ribbon on your page, under INSERT
there are tabs to set up Header and Footer templates for your report.
As you write your report, there is not generally considered a limitation on the number of
pages, other than in the Executive Summary, however you need to word the analysis in
your own words, not by copying complete sections from the research sources you utilized.
Generally, Research Reports and reports are written in the third person (we rather than
I) and are not the place to provide your opinion, rather you need to stick to the facts, as
reports are meant to be objective, providing the facts. It cannot be emphasized enough
the need for your report to be professional in appearance, but also in the language used
to convey the information you wish to leave the reader with. This means the use of
abbreviations and acronyms without proper introduction, slang, “text style words” etc., will
not be tolerated.
Professional reports also do not have spelling and grammatical errors in them.
Microsoft Word software has excellent correction features highlight the potential concern
by using a series of coloured wavy (squiggly) lines
▪ Red for spelling errors

▪ Blue for spacing errors
▪ Green for grammar errors.
As you write the report you should be asking yourself does it flow in a way that should
make sense to the reader, in other words are all the thoughts and ideas in a logical order
that allows the report, report sentences and statements to make sense while building on
the previous statements or information.
Spelling is easily corrected when using Microsoft Word, as the software has several
dictionary options available to you. For the courses in the Supply Chain & Operations
programs, we use the ENGLISH (CANADA) dictionary. The dictionary can be easily
changed from the default ENGLISH (UNITED STATES) by highlight the dictionary which
appears in the lower left of your screen, left clicking on it and changing the dictionary
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which appears in the drop-box that appears – always remember to also make this the
default language for your report by clicking on the box in the lower left of the drop-box.
Have you proofread your report, and have you asked the members of the group to also
proofread it for you? Many marks have been lost because this was not done, remember
you cannot rely on the auto-correct feature of your computer to fix all the problems. When
you are employed and submit a report with errors it reflects very badly on your work habits
and ability to perform tasks.
The same requirement for proofreading applies to typefaces, many times groups work
individually on sections of the report and submit an electronic copy to the person
assembling the report. This has often results in several typefaces and type sizes
appearing in the same report. Like the proofreading check this, and have the other
members of the group check this.
Several of the typefaces available to you in the Microsoft Word software can be used for
your report. The only requirement is that is it easy to read and the letters are all the same
type size. A personal preference is the Arial typeface, but Times Roman is acceptable,
as are Calibri and Century Gothic as examples. NOTE: the APA articles earlier in this
guideline document state that reports should be written in Times Roman typefaces, or
something similar, but you can use any easy-to-read typeface, such as Arial, Garamond
etc.
Format of Report
Like the Case Analysis Report, Research Reports also have a professional format that
should be followed. Remember, your report may be provided to the client and is a
reflection of your “professionalism” (as a note, often the client may interview and
possibly hire students, so the report is an opportunity to show your value and strength)
The format that should be used is as follows:
• Cover Page
• Leader Page
• Executive Summary
• Introduction/Background
• Research Methodology
• Research Detail/Information
• Conclusion
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We shall now provide detail on what each section/component should look like
Cover Page
The beginning of every report is the cover page. This is the first thing that a supervisor
or management is going to see (your professor will see this first also), so it is important
that it has the look and feel of a professional report.
The first thing you need to do, is to create a file for the report, as you need the file to be
able to create a cover page.
Creating a cover page is/or can be very simple. In Microsoft Word, there are a number
of pre-designed templates that you can use. These are located in Microsoft Word under
the Insert drop-down menu. Look in the upper left-hand corner where there are three
possibilities – Cover Page – Blank Page – Page Break. Select Cover Page and
number of templates will be shown (17 in Office 2016), click on the template you wish to
use and it will automatically be inserted at the front of your document.
You do not need to use one of the templates, you can create your own, just remember it
is not an academic cover sheet you are creating it is a professional cover sheet.
Example – Academic
Report Name Report Name

Usually Centered on Page
Student Name
Student Name Student Names and Numbers
Student Name Usually centered on sheet,
Student Name below case name
Student Name
Professor Name, Course Number,

Professor Name and date are usually in lower
Course Number right corner or centered on
Date page at bottom
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Example – Professional
The cover page for these guidelines is an example of a professional report, created by a
Microsoft Word Template, but if you wish to create your own, on the following page is an
example of professional looking cover sheet created without using a template.
A simple design, aligned to the right of the page
The Report Title is bold and larger than the other type sizes
Research
on the page
Report
On The Title of the report should include the topic that was
XXYYXX researched
Prepared for Even though you are presenting this report your professor,
Client Name you should use the client’s name
Presented on
January 6, 2014
Always use the same type font for all words
A simple design, aligned to the right of the page
The Report Title is bold and larger than the other type
Research
sizes on the page
Report
For The Title of the report should include the topic that was
Company/Client Name
researched and often includes the company or client
On
name as well
XXYYXX
Presented on
January 6, 2014 Always use the same type font for all words
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Whichever design you use, a template or your own design, remember the following
when you are creating a Cover page:
• It should be professional in appearance

• The typefaces should all be the same
• It should be easy to read
• It should be minimalistic
Graphics on the Cover Page
You can add graphics to the cover page, as long as they are relevant to the overall content of
the report. Pictures and graphics can be loaded from your own pictures or designs, or from
websites that offer graphics.
In some instances, if the company name provided in the case is real, you can use their logo, but
remember to cite the location in your bibliography
The graphic example provide here is based on a Research

Report for Barcoding Equipment and Providers for a client.
Research The graphic chosen represents a traditional barcode,
Report which relates to the subject matter within the report.
For
Microsoft Word has access to many images
Company/Client Name
On
Barcoding Providers
Presented on
January 6, 2014
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Leader Page
A Leader Page is a page that repeats the title of the report, but not necessarily in the
same format as a cover sheet, it is generally more minimalistic and includes the author’s
names (student names) and for our purposes in the program the student numbers of the
group
Research Report Title can be Centred or offset to left or right

Title should be a minimum of 14pt type size and bold
Prepared by
Student Name and Number Author names should match the title placement, and be
in a smaller type size, usually the same size and
Student Name and Numbers typeface as the report
Date Submitted Always include the submission date (due date)
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Table of Contents
Not everyone agrees that a professional report requires a Table of Contents, a practice
the author disagrees with, as he feels that a Table of Contents acts as a reference for the
reader and allows future readers to go to specific sections of the report, s o for reports
submitted in the Supply Chain Programs you are required to include a table of contents,
unless otherwise directed by the individual professor.
Tables of Contents can be done in a chart format, with or without the lines
Example of Table of Contents with Lines
NOTE: The column headed “Section” is only applicable if you are breaking your report
into sections

Executive Summary 1
Immediate Issue 3
Analysis 8
Example of Table of Contents without Lines

Executive Summary 1
Immediate Issue 3
Analysis 8
You can also utilize the Table of Contents creation tool within Microsoft Word which is
located under the Reference Tab in the Upper Task Bar.
In the top taskbar in a Microsoft Word document is a tab “references”, click on this to
open where you will see six (6) squares as follows:
• Insert Footnote
• Insert Citation
• Insert Caption
• Mark Entry
• Mark Citation
Select the first square and follow the instructions to create the table.
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Executive Summary
Executive Summaries are exactly that, a summary of your report. It is designed to pique
the interest of the reader and give them a much-summarized review of the report. The
Executive Summary is the first formal page of the report, and you can repeat portions of
your report in the Executive Summary. Many a report has been discarded due to a poorly
written Executive Summary. Generally, no longer than two pages, preferably a single
page, it gives the reader the following information:
• A challenge Statement
o Should be client focused
• Little background of organization
o Type of organization
o What the business does
o Length of time in business (if known)
• The goal
• A quick overview of the research methodology
o Techniques
o Sources referenced/used
o Possibly research questions
• Conclusions and Recommendations
o Include all but in summary format (McCombs, n.d.)
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format
By Justin Buck, eHow Contributor
How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format thumbnail many reviewers will weed
out proposals based on a poor executive summary.
The American Psychological Association (APA) standards for writing are applied to most
written pieces. Form and style go hand in hand, and a well-written paper could be
overlooked if not completed in proper form. When writing for executive summaries, this
can be particularly important. Because the executive summary is written to articulate the
main points of the work as a whole, it is considered the most important portion of its paper
or report. While not always required, the executive summary is mostly required in lengthy
research dissertations or in government and private sector reports and requests.
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Instructions - Writing the Executive Summary

By Justin Buck, eHow Contributor,
Format your summary to fit general APA writing standards. This will mean 10-to-12-point
Times New Roman (or similar) font double-spaced on standard (8.5"x11") paper with 1"
margins. Type "Executive Summary" centered at the top of the page with no boldface or
italicizing (and no quotes).
NOTE: For Business Reports, the titles do not need to be centred, but if you prefer this
format then it is acceptable to centre the headings.
NOTE: For the reports written for this program, they do not need to be double-spaced.
Business Reports usually are not double-spaced
Type the body of your summary directly below.
• Write a brief summary, not exceeding one page, which gives an overview of
your report's contents as well as its conclusion or recommendations. Include
all your most important points for those who may read only the summary and
not the report in its entirety.
• Insert your summary just after the report's title page and just before the body
of the paper.
• Your executive summary should make a lasting impression in one page or less.
Proof your Executive Summary. Remove extraneous words, slicing the summary down
to the most powerful points of the report and the concluding recommendations. Butler
University suggests an Executive Summary no longer than 120 words, but business
standards allow for one full page of text. If you can write short without sacrificing content,
do it.
Tips & Warnings
• When writing for a grant proposal, highlight the big three: who you serve,
how you serve them, and why it matters. Don't forget to include the amount
of the request and what it will do for the program.
• When writing for business, highlight cost savings, profit maximization, and
other potentialities without getting bogged down in complexities like
methodology and justification.
• When writing academically, ask yourself if an executive summary is even
necessary. Executive Summaries make recommendations, and with
most short academic papers (1 to 40 pages), the abstract is sufficient to
describe the report.
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▪ For the purpose of your report, you need to include a synopsis of your
Final Recommendation.
• Be careful not to load your executive summary with technical jargon. Your
executive summary should read easily and pique the interest of the reader.
http://www.ehow.com/how_7931940_write-executive-summary-apa-format.html#ixzz2ozLf36vo
Another article on Executive Summaries, found in an old file, citation unknown.
Writing a Good Executive Summary - Guidelines for Students
Writing an Executive Summary is very similar to writing any other sort of Summary, in
that its main purpose is to condense, simplify and highlight a larger document. An
Executive Summary, however, is usually written intended for an audience that does
not have time to read the entire document. It is usually read by key decision maker/s,
such as Executives or policy makers, regarding whatever the proposal or report
addresses, and the Summary aims to convince or persuade the audience to take
certain actions.
An Executive Summary is sometimes referred to synonymously with a scholarly

Abstract, although an Abstract differs slightly in its purpose and function. An Abstract
in a scholarly report is simply a shorter version or overview of the entire document. It
is like an extraction of the whole document and retains the general sense of unity as
the original. The Executive Summary, on the other hand, does more than give a
Summary or overview. It lends more insight into the significant messages in the
proposal or report, and the conclusion and justification of that proposal. The Executive
Summary informs the reader what is being proposed in the report, makes
recommendations, and tells the reader what response is instigated by the report.
The Executive Summary is usually no longer than 10% of the main document, which
can be anywhere from 1-10 pages, depending on the length of the entire report. It will
most often follow a cover page, and will include several elements. The elements used
in or omitted from any given Executive Summary will vary according to each proposal
or report's intended audience and purpose. Elements commonly included in Executive
summaries include purpose and scope of document, methods, results, conclusion,
recommendations and any other supportive information. Again, the Summary will
highlight the proposal recommendations for action by listing or outlining various goals
and objectives, and making justifications for the recommendations. The conclusion
will summarize research findings and analysis of the research that then led to the
reasoning for specific recommendations mentioned in the proposal or report.
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In order to write a good Executive Summary, you must understand the function of
the Executive Summary. To reiterate the guidelines above, the Executive
Summary's function is to give readers essential contents of the main document in
1-10 pages. The Summary will preview the main points of the document and
enable readers to build a mental framework for organizing and comprehending the
details of the document. It will help readers determine key results and
recommendations in the document, and hopefully induce an initial response.
Writing a strong Executive Summary is quite feasible if a student is careful about

preserving its traditional purpose and function to aid readers in comprehension and
cause initial persuasion. Executive summaries should not be written until after
research is complete. Before writing an Executive Summary, scan research to
determine what the content, length and structure of the report will be. Highlight key
points or main ideas, and determine the central theme or purpose of the report.
Review research and determine what the major concepts and ideas are. Group
ideas in a logical and coherent way by constructing a point form outline of the
Summary before proceeding to the actual Summary.
Edit the outline several times before going on to the actual Summary, eliminating any
secondary, irrelevant or inconsequential points or ideas. Decide when bullets, subtitles
and bolding or some other form or organizational structure will help "clean up" the
Summary or make it easier to read. Remember to make the Summary clear, and use
personal judgment upon reading it. Write it in your own words but use a professional style,
as Executives and policy makers will be reading it.
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Introduction/Background (also identified as an Environmental Scan)
You may think that the Introduction is the same as an Executive Summary – it is not! An
introduction is the heading under which you provide the reader/client with an overview of
the requirements of the project (your understanding of what is required). It can also
provide some information on the client – basic information, not a completed company
history – which shows the reader/client that you/your group understands the requirement
and understands the company that this exponential learning experience is being
conducted for.
Research Methodology
There are many methods of conducting research, so in this section you/your group are
describing to the reader the actual method(s) utilized to obtain information that meets the
criteria of the project you/group is undertaking.
One of the main components of methodology in research is the determination of a

weighting for the criteria provided in the presentation for the client and the
instructions/requirements provided to you in the document created and posted on the
course site by tour professor. The weighting scale (similar to the weighting scale
discussed [and an assignment] in several of the course you take in the program. This
scale allows you/your group to prioritize the criteria provided based on your/your group
understanding of the requirements and which shows the client that you have listened to
their needs. A weighting Scale also provides the client with an overview of the criteria
factors being utilized.
When you create the weighted scale, it is important hat you also provide to the
reader/client the reason for the selection of the criteria and their weights, which
means that you need to explain this to the reader/client – you cannot just create
this scale, expecting the reader/client to understand why these points were
selected and the weights assigned
Weighted Scale Charts needs to be professional looking, so use the proper

spacing and type fonts/size in your chart. Also, charts should never exceed a single
page, so do not let them cross over pages. If necessary, then start the chart on a
new page to ensure it fits.
Charts should not be included in the Appendix, as the reader/client may not bother
to look there – they want the information in front of them when the are reading the
report submitted.
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In this section you also describe how you determined what sources were utilized as well
as providing a listing of the sources. Like everything else, this information needs to be
explained to the reader/client. Remember, there will be several groups working on this
project so the reports with greater detail and explanations will be ranked higher, but will
also show the reader/client that you/your group understands research methodology and
its importance to the business world.
As was stated earlier in this section, there are many places where information can be
gathered from, the selection of sources of information should be related to the project
requirements, and there is definitely more than just “Google” or “Yahoo” that need to be
considered.
As you will have time to complete this project, plan your time wisely, remember time
management is an important factor in the success of the supply chain, as is paying
attention to detail.
Research Detail/Information
This section is where you locate in an organized manner the details of the research that
has been conducted. It will provide the reader/client the information specific to the topic
being researched as well as a comparison between the information/providers.
This section is not an opinion space for you to provide what you feel is the best provider
or product, that is the responsibility of the reader/client to determine, you report in this
section the facts.
You can and it is advised to do so, provide a graphic (chart) of comparison of features as
applicable (works very well for product feature comparisons) but it is not the only
information you are providing as the chart is a consolidation of the information you have
gathered during the research phase of the project.
In terms of research information provided, it is recommended that you use a logical order
of presentation, by this it can be meant that you provide the information on the company
or product in alphabetical order based on the mane of the product or company. The
information for each of the products/companies would come under a heading of the
company of product name. As an example
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Company A/Product A
Provide the information gathered in your research for this company/product,

remembering to cite the sources and provide only information that is relevant to
the research parameters that have been provided to you by your professor.
Take as much space as is required to provide details on the product/company that

will allow the reader/client to understand why this particular company/product was
chosen
Repeat this for every company you research, remember that you need to complete
a thorough research of the market. Not just a few you think would fit the
requirements
In this section you also need to provide the reader
Conclusion
The Conclusion is a wrap up of the report, which provides a synopsis of the activity and
results, the conclusion in a Research Report the conclusion is very similar to the
conclusion written in a Case Analysis Report as it provides the reader with a synopsis of
the research, the highlights of how the research was completed, what the basic findings
were and as always, a statement of thanks to the reader/client.
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Formatting and Styles in Reports
As has been identified in other sections, there are specific formats and styles that should
be used. These allow you the writer to present the information in a logical manner, that
flows in a cohesive manner to allow the reader to comprehend what it is you are trying to
explain to them.
There are other considerations when it comes to formatting reports, mainly the use of
graphics in the report. We are all (whether we believe it or not) visual learners, we utilize
pictures (graphics) to comprehend and display information as well as providing a visual
portrayal of the information being provided.
Graphics are not just pictures, they can also be charts and graphs that summarize
information in the paragraphs above the chart/graphic, or can be used as a summary for
information that is being explained below the chart.
Graphics or Charts also a nice way to break up a lengthy report verbiage.
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Graphics
Tables and Charts
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Using Graphics in your Report(s)
Whether you are writing a Case Analysis Report or a Research Report, graphics can be
utilized to highlight specific information or provide a visual representation of a concept as
graphics are a visual representation of your written word. They can be used to highlight
the written section into an easy to identify graphic. However, as great as they are, it is
important they fit into the report in a professional way, which means they should not be
overpowering.
Graphics should not be full page affairs, unless the graphic is that large that only a full
page to fit it is required. Graphics should be in the document wording, and it is very easy
to accomplish this using the tools available within the Microsoft Word formatting tools.
As an example, the above puzzle graphic. Taken from the On-line Picture in “Insert” from
the toolbar at the top of the screen. This graphic immediately fills have the page and looks
out of place in the document.
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We can take the same graphic and make the size proportionate to the document which
still gives the opportunity to show a graphic but also shows that we are being considerate
and professional in our report. To accomplish this, we insert the picture, whether from an
On-line site (properly cited of course) or from our own pictures/word-art/smart-art/chart
creation by using the tools in the tool bar of the top of the screen.
The steps to do this are as follows:
• Select “Insert” (third tab from left)

• Select – the type of item to be created/inserted
• Create/Select the item you wish
o in this case we shall use “Online Pictures”, which
Graphic – Tight with Text
gives us a “Bing Image Search” pop-up box
asking for the specific image looking for (I chose
Graphics, but you can chose puzzles) press enter
o You will be provided with a series of graphics, from which you select the
one you wish
o In the bottom right of the box with all the graphics is a button that says
“insert”, select this and your graphic appears in your document at the last
place your cursor is/was.
I have re-sized the puzzle graphic to fit in line with the wording, which is easy to do.
Highlight the graphic (you should see buttons around the exterior of the graphic), select
a corner (left or right, top or bottom) and start moving your cursor toward the middle of
the graphic. Stop when you feel that the size is appropriate for the document you are
writing. Graphic – In line with Text
When you click on the graphic to get the buttons, you will also see on the upper right
corner a square with a rainbow design in a series of lines (Layout Options). If you click on
this it will show a number of possibilities for how you can place your graphic, primarily “in-
line with the text” or “with text wrapping” With the text wrapping option, there are several
choices you can select, this is your choice and depends how you want the graphic to
appear. The selections are
• Square
• Tight
• Through
• Top & Bottom
• Behind Text
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• In Front of Text
On the previous page the graphic is just inserted into the report, not adjusted or re-sized.
The second depiction of the graphic at the top of this page is shown how the graphic looks
re-sized and tight in the text. The third depiction of the puzzle graphic just above is shown
as “in-line with text” and we can see how it distorts the overall flow of the text.
All three graphics work, but look at them and see which one makes a more professional
look to your report. Keep this in mind as you consider graphics in your report – do not shy
away from using graphics, just use them appropriately.
Throughout this document there are graphics, see how they look more professional when
they are the appropriate size.
Using Charts and Tables in Reports (Case Analysis or Research)
Charts are different than tables, yet they are commonly referred to as if they are the same
thing. Charts provide summarizations of information, and can be a very powerful tool
when used properly. One of the big mistakes made by students writing reports and
wishing to insert a chart is the utilization of a tool within Microsoft Word found in the
INSERT tab, under the sub-heading of table. Often the author (you) will select a table
based on the number of columns and lines they wish to use and then let Microsoft Word
insert the blank chart (table). While this is a wonderful simplistic tool it is often used
incorrectly.
Some basic considerations when using charts/tables in reports are:
• Centre Headings in the appropriate place

• Make the column width compatible with the page
• NEVER split tables over several pages unless totally necessary
o When this happens, it is often due to the size of the table
o You can reduce the type font size to reduce the overall size of the table
o Adjust the column widths – manually or using the adjust tool available
• If a table needs to be split over multiple pages, ensure that a “header column” is
included on each new page
o A “header column” is the headings used in the first line of the table
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Examples of Tables:
The first table shown has been created using the INSERT – Tables tab in the Upper
Control Bar of Microsoft Word
Information Reference Reference Reference Reference Reference

1 2 3 4 5
You can use two lines within the header to provide information/titles for the reader
If you use the same format, but need to split the table (put on more than one page). Then
you would show it as follows

1 2 3 4 5
This is the page break. So, when the reader starts reading the information in the table on
the second page, they would see the following

1 2 3 4 5
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Charts
Charts are different than tables. You can create charts in Microsoft Excel and import them
to your report or you can use the Chart function found in the Upper Control Bar in
Microsoft Word to create a chart. To use the Chart function, go to the INSERT Tab and
select Charts, which is located in the third section (next to the “Pictures”), charts is the
third drop down in the menu.
Select the chart type you wish to use and insert it into the report. The charts will need
modification based on the information you are looking to include/display in the chart.
There are 15 categories of charts in this tab, each category having several possible charts
you can select.
Examples of a chart from the Microsoft Word Chart Function
In this example a Histogram (Also referred to as a bar chart) has been selected. The
modifications required in this example include:
• Chart Title – give the chart a meaningful title, usually one that relates to the
information being displayed
• The levels on both the X and Y Axis
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After you have selected the chart, if you “click” anywhere on it on the right hand side of
the chart you will see three emblems that allow you to make the necessary modifications
References/Citations/Bibliography
This is always an area of contention for students, and it does not need to be. In any report
you will produce, whether here at the college or in the workplace, you need to be able to
reference information, otherwise it can be considered as opinion, which is not acceptable.
For the purposes of the Lawrence Kinlin School of Business, we have selected as our
report writing standard, what is referred to as the APA Standard. This was developed by
the American Psychological Association (APA) as a common format for written reports
and has been adapted by many as their standard. There are several formats available to
be used, but the APA standard is widely recognized as an acceptable and professional
format for report writing in many situations. One of the features of the APA format is that
it has a standardized format for References/Citations and Bibliographies, which within
Microsoft word allow you to set up the details of the reference and the formatting is done
automatically for you.
References come from a variety of sources, case studies, textbooks, newspapers,

magazines, journals, internet websites, videos, personal experience, etc. Each source
needs to be accounted for which in Microsoft Word this is extremely easy to accomplish.
In the top taskbar in a Microsoft Word document is a tab “references”, click on this to open
where you will see six (6) squares as follows:
• Insert Footnote
• Insert Citation
• Insert Caption
• Mark Entry
• Mark Citation
Select the third square – Insert Citation which also provides you with three additional
options:
• Manage Sources
o This is where you create a new reference sources
• Style
o This provides you with all the styles supported by Microsoft Word
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o Ensure it reads APA – should be the default style
What to Cite
Citations are references to materials researched and thoughts taken from this research,
it may also include direct quotations from your research. These all need to be identified
in the body of your report following the above mentioned APA guidelines.
It is important to understand that you will (should) be researching materials relevant to

the case analysis, things like
• Company information if available (remember sometimes company names are

disguised)
• Industry information
• Potential competition information
• Research on a specific topic mentioned in report
o Perhaps Six Sigma
o Software Applications
How to Cite
Citations must be included in the body of your report under APA guidelines. Other
guidelines will use footnotes and numbers to identify cited points, these are more common
in scientific reports, so are not to be used for the report being written by you.
It is suggested for type size for citations that you use a smaller type size than the report,
and that it be italicized (9 point italicized)
Bibliography (Also referred to as References)
o Will automatically create a bibliography or citation list for you, based on the
sources you created in “Manage Sources”
o You reference a source inside your document – when you use
• A quote or statement from a text etc.
• A website or video etc.
It is important to identify the source within the document, some people prefer the use of
footnotes, which is also acceptable, however footnotes are used heavily in academic
reports, and not as often in business related reports. Utilizing the APA format for citations
also allows for greater detail regarding the source.
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Citations and the Bibliography as important to the reader as they can verify the information
being provided, and give your report creditability, as well as showing that you researched
your ideas and plans – this shows professionalism.
Remember, citations are important in your report, it allows the reader to verify
information presented and also show how you have researched the topic/situation.
In your research, you may examine many sources, this is a good thing to do, however it
is also important that you only use in your bibliography those sources that you actually
use, not the entire list of sources you reviewed/examined.
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Conclusion – Report Writing
Conclusions in business reports are generally an opportunity for you to provide final
comments on your report and research. It is used as an opportunity to summarize the
major issues or problems you discovered. It is also where you can summarize your final
recommendation, relating it to the issues and problems discovered and then highlights
the action plan required, and should attempt to be a positive set of statements that will
want the reader to put your plans into action.
As you write your conclusion, keep these things in mind, people do not like negativity, so
ending on a positive note inspires individuals to seriously consider the action plan put
forth.
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Presentations
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‘Introduction
PowerPoint presentation are almost expected in business today, and as such it is

important that we understand the benefits and downfall of this tool. Presentations are an
integral component of the overall business report experience. The purpose of a
presentation is highlight the important parts of your previously submitted report and give
you the opportunity to explain/defend your position to an audienc e of Executives, Board
of Directors or members of a department/team that may not have been involved in your
research, but it may have an impact on them.
Presentations are meant to be shortened versions of reports, and there are several tips
that can be implemented to ensure you have success. Remember, presentations, or
PowerPoints are usually presented in a larger area than an office, like a boardroom or
amphitheatre and as such need to be readable.
Background
After many years of receiving and reviewing presentations from groups in the Supply
Chain Programs within the Lawrence Kinlin School Business, it was determined that
groups need to have a better understanding of what the purpose and intent of a slide
presentation is. Unlike the slides used within the lecture format of a classroom, which are
attempting to condense the chapter in the textbook, presentations for business need to
be more concise. To facilitate this desire to have concise presentations, many attempts
have been made by the author to control the slide presentations by dictating the number
of slides to be used, dictating the content and dictating the colours. These attempts while
moderately successful, are not enough to make the presentations done by students more
professional.
Presentations are stressful enough for many people, as many people do not like to speak
in front of an audience, and in many cases presenters over react by making slides that
they just read, many times not facing their audience fully. This only angers the audience
and the presenter loses credibility.
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Points to Remember
There are many things that we can do to have excellent presentations that are very basic
and easy to implement. These can be categorized in five sections:
Word Count
Your audience can read as fast as you can, it has been said that a person looking at a
slide can read the content in ten seconds, which in some instances is less time than it
takes the presenter to check that it is the right slide and turn to the audience.
A good rule to keep in mind when making slides is what is referred to as 6x6, or 6 x 8.
This is defined as
Six lines per slide, six words per line

Six Lines per slide, eight words per line
What the 6 x 6 indicates is that you have considered your audience and that you are only
presenting points that you will discuss.
There is also another group of presenters that feel the 6 x 6 is not sufficient, so they
propose the following 8 x 8. This is defined as
Eight Lines per slide, eight words per line
What the 8 x 8 indicates is that you have considered your audience and that you are
only presenting points that you will discuss.
Bullet Points
The purpose of bullet-points is to separate the points you are going to discuss, it also
shows the audience that these are the important points to be discussed further.
Colours
When we discuss colour in PowerPoint Slides we need to break it down into two
categories – Background and Fonts/Typeface
Background
This is an interesting area, people think that dark backgrounds or bright backgrounds are
better, they are not always. There are people who promote a black background for slides
– they say it is more powerful, and yes it is for a slide of very few words, however a wordy
slide with a dark background is very difficult to read.
Page 77 of 105
Remember, what looks good on a computer screen as you create may not portray your
message or professionalism properly when it is enlarge and projected to the bigger screen.
Font Style & Size (Typeface Style and Size)
Typefaces used in a presentation are often referred to by the older printing/typesetting

term “font”, they are the same. If we follow the 6 x6 rule, then the size of the typeface
used can be larger.
A good rule of thumb is to use a typeface size of

18 – 36 depending on what you are showing. Many
people feel they need to put their entire report on
the slides, and present some very difficult to read
slides. The slide shown on the left is actually using
20 point type size, but as you can see it is very
wordy. It did project reasonably well however.
This slide used a 24 point type size, easier to read

but still very busy
Animation
Animation is a useful tool if used properly, when we over use it becomes annoying and
very confusing
Here is a link to a humorous approach to “Death by PowerPoint” which is a four minute

overview of things not to do in a presentation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjcO2ExtHso
The above YouTube video is not only humorous, but it is very pointed. I wanted to
provide you with more details and a more serious approach to creating PowerPoint
presentations. My search revealed this following from Garr Reynolds.
Page 78 of 105
Top Ten Slide Tips
1. Keep it Simple
PowerPoint uses slides with a horizontal or “Landscape” orientation.

The software was designed as a convenient way to display graphical
information that would support the speaker and supplement the
presentation. The slides themselves were never meant to be the “star
of the show” (the star, of course, is your audience). People came to
hear you and be moved or informed (or both) by you and your
message. Don’t let your message and your ability to tell a story get
derailed by slides that are unnecessarily complicated, busy, or full of
what Edward Tufte calls “chart junk.” Nothing in your slide should be
superfluous, ever.
Your slides should have plenty of “white space” or “negative space.”

Do not feel compelled to fill empty areas on your slide with your logo
or other unnecessary graphics or text boxes that do not contribute to better understanding. The
less clutter you have on your slide, the more powerful your visual message will become.
2. Limit bullet points & text
Your presentation is for the benefit of the audience. But boring an audience with bullet point after
bullet point is of little benefit to them. Which brings us to the issue of text. The best slides may
have no text at all. This may sound insane given the dependency of text slides today, but the best
PowerPoint slides will be virtually meaningless without the narration (that is you). Remember, the
slides are meant to support the narration of the speaker, not make the speaker superfluous. Many
people often say something like this: “Sorry I missed your presentation. I hear it was great. Can
you just send me your PowerPoint slides?” But if they are good slides, they will be of little use
without you. Instead of a copy of your PowerPoint slides, it is far better to prepare a written
document which highlights your content from the presentation and expands on that content.
Audiences are much better served receiving a detailed, written handout as a takeaway from the
presentation, rather than a mere copy of your PowerPoint slides. If you have a detailed handout
or publication for the audience to be passed out after your talk, you need not feel compelled to
fill your PowerPoint slides with a great deal of text.
We’ll talk more about this in the delivery section below, but as long as we are talking about text,
please remember to never, ever turn your back on the audience and read text from the slide word
for word.
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This slide is not unusual, but it is not a visual aid, it is more like an
“eye chart.”
Try to avoid text-heavy (and sleep inducing) slides like this one.
Aim for something like this simple slide above.
And this is even better…
3. Limit transitions & builds (animation)
Use object builds and slide transitions judiciously. Object builds (also called animations), such as
bullet points, should not be animated on every slide. Some animation is a good thing, but stick to
the most subtle and professional (similar to what you might see on the evening TV news
broadcast). A simple “Wipe Left-to-Right” (from the “Animations” menu) is good for a bullet point,
but a “Move” or “Fly” for example is too tedious and slow (and yet, is used in many presentations
today). Listeners will get bored very quickly if they are asked to endure slide after slide of
animation. For transitions between slides, use no more than two-three different types of transition
effects and do not place transition effects between all slides.
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4. Use high-quality graphics
Use high-quality graphics including photographs. You can take your own high-quality photographs
with your digital camera, purchase professional stock photography, or use the plethora of high-
quality images available on line (be cautious of copyright issues, however). Never simply stretch
a small, low-resolution photo to make it fit your layout – doing so will degrade the resolution even
further. Avoid using PowerPoint Clip Art or other cartoonish line art. Again, if it is included in the
software, your audience has seen it a million times before. It may have been interesting in 1993,
but today the inclusion of such clip art often undermines the professionalism of the presenter.
There are exceptions, of course, and not all PowerPoint art is dreadful, but use carefully and
judiciously.
Try to avoid cheesy clip art like this.
This edited stock photograph is more effective and

professional.
I often use images of people in my slides, as photography of people tends to help the audience
connect with the slide on a more emotional level. If the photographic image is secondary in
importance, then I decrease the opacity and add a Gaussian Blur or motion filter in Photoshop. If
the photographic image is the primary area I want the audience to notice (such as a picture of a
product), then the image can be more pronounced and little (or no) text is needed.
In this title slide, the image is primary.
Page 81 of 105
In this slide of the same presentation, the image is secondary

and “pushed” to the back by editing it first in Photoshop.
5. Have a visual theme, but avoid using PowerPoint templates
You clearly need a consistent visual theme throughout your presentation, but most templates
included in PowerPoint have been seen by your audience countless times (and besides, the
templates are not all that great to begin with). Your audience expects a unique presentation with
new (at least to them) content, otherwise why would they be attending your talk? No audience will
be excited about a cookie-cutter presentation, and we must therefore shy away from any
supporting visuals, such as the ubiquitous PowerPoint Design Template, that suggests your
presentation is formulaic or pre-packaged. You can make your own background templates which
will be more tailored to your needs. You can then save the PowerPoint file as a Design Template
(.pot) and the new template will appear among your standard Microsoft templates for your future
use. You can also purchase professional templates on-line (for example:
www.powerpointtemplatespro.com).
6. Use appropriate charts
Always be asking yourself, “How much detail do I need?” Presenters are usually guilty of including
too much data in their on-screen charts. There are several ways to display your data in graphic
form; here are a few things to keep in mind:
Pie Charts.
Used to show percentages. Limit the slices to 4-6 and contrast

the most important slice either with color or by exploding the
slice.
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Vertical Bar Charts.
Used to show changes in quantity over time. Best if you limit

the bars to 4-8.
Horizontal Bar Charts.
Used to compare quantities. For example, comparing sales

figures among the four regions of the company.
Line Charts.
Used to demonstrate trends. For example, here is a simple line

chart showing that our sales have gone up every year. The
trend is good. The arrow comes in later to underscore the point:
Our future looks good!
In general, tables are good for side-by-side comparisons of quantitative data. However, tables
can lack impact on a visceral level. If you want to show how your contributions are significantly
higher than two other parties, for example, it would be best to show that in the form of a bar chart
(below, right). If you’re trying to downplay the fact that your contributions are lower than others,
however, a table will display that information in a less dramatic or emotional way.
Page 83 of 105
7. Use colour well
Colour evokes feelings. Colour is emotional. The right colour can help
persuade and motivate. Studies show that color usage can increase interest
and improve learning comprehension and retention.
You do not need to be an expert in color theory, but it’s good for business
professionals to know at least a bit on the subject. Colours can be divided into
two general categories: Cool (such as blue and green) and Warm (such as
orange and red). Cool colors work best for backgrounds as they appear to
recede away from us into the background. Warm colors generally work best
for objects in the foreground (such as text) because they appear to be coming
at us. It is no surprise, then, that the most ubiquitous PowerPoint slide color scheme includes a
blue background with yellow text. You do not need to feel compelled to use this color scheme,
though you may choose to use a variation of those colors.
If you will be presenting in a dark room (such as a large hall), then a dark background (dark blue,
grey, etc.) with white or light text will work fine. But if you plan to keep most of the lights on (which
is highly advisable) then a white background with black or dark text works much better. In rooms
with a good deal of ambient light, a screen image with a dark background and light text tends to
washout, but dark text on a light background will maintain its visual intensity a bit better.
Learn more:
• PresentationPro.com has some great Flash tutorials including one on color.

• Go to the CreativePro.com to learn more about color.
• Dummies.com has a good short article on how to create a Color Scheme in PowerPoint.
8. Choose your fonts well
Fonts communicate subtle messages in and of themselves, which is why you should choose fonts
deliberately. Use the same font set throughout your entire slide presentation, and use no more
than two complementary fonts (e.g., Arial and Arial Bold). Make sure you know the difference
between a Serif font (e.g., Times New Roman) and a Sans-Serif font (Helvetica or Arial). Serif
fonts were designed to be used in documents filled with lots of text. Serif fonts are said to be
easier to read at small point sizes, but for on screen presentations the serifs tend to get lost due
to the relatively low resolution of projectors. San-serif fonts are generally best for PowerPoint
presentations, but try to avoid the ubiquitous Helvetica. I often choose to use Gill Sans as it is
somewhere in between a serif and a sans-serif font and is professional yet friendly and
“conversational.” Regardless of what font you choose, make sure the text can be read from the
back of the room.
Times
Arial Black
and Arial
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9. Use video or audio
Use video and audio when appropriate. Using video clips to show
concrete examples promotes active cognitive processing, which
is the natural way people learn. You can use video clips within
PowerPoint without ever leaving the application or tuning on a
VCR. Using a video clip not only will illustrate your point better, it
will also serve as a change of pace thereby increasing the interest
of your audience. You can use audio clips (such as interviews)
as well. Something to avoid, however, is cheesy sound effects
that are included in PowerPoint (such as the sound of a horn or
applause when transitioning slides). The use of superfluous
sound effects attached to animations is a sure way to lose
credibility with your audience.
10. Spend time in the slide sorter
According to the Segmentation Principle of multimedia learning theory, people comprehend

better when information is presented in small chunks or segments. By getting out of the Slide
View and into the Slide Sorter view, you can see how the logical flow of your presentation is
progressing. In this view you may decide to break up one slide into, say, two-three slides so that
your presentation has a more natural and logical flow or process. In this view you will be able to
capture more of the gestalt of your entire presentation from the point of view of your audience.
You will be able to notice more extraneous pieces of visual data that can be removed to
increase visual clarity and improve communication.
Page 85 of 105
Conclusion
This document was produced to assist, not dictate how reports could be written in a
professional manner. As students are enrolled in business programs, it is important that
they understand the need to write in a business format/mindset. After years of reviewing
proposals and reports when the author was in a management role, and for several years
while in an academic role it was felt that a guideline needed to be published to assist
students, most of whom are being exposed to this writing concept for the first time.
The author is not suggesting that he has created a perfect document, but rather the goal
was to create guidelines for students to consider as they write reports, case analysis and
proposals.
Remember as you consider these guidelines that your document, whether it is a proposal,
situational analysis or formal report that it reflects on you as an individual, your
professionalism and your ability to communicate. These reports are like a sales tool, the
flashy submission get the attention, what is they say – 90% of the sale in in the sizzle” –
this is the sizzle.
From a Procurement perspective, you expect that the organization submitting a proposal
to have an impressive document, why then can you not prepare an impressive document
to “sell your ideas” to your management, team or organization. The concept is the same,
the audience and content may be slightly different.
When creating documents, try to relax and think you would like to have a document
submitted to you, then create such a document.
Page 86 of 105
Page 87 of 105
APPENDICES
&
CHARTS
Page 88 of 105
Page 89 of 105
Appendix A
Mapping – MGMT-3041 Guidelines to these Guidelines
SUPPLY CHAIN & OPERATIONS

MGMT-3041 (Diploma Program)
PROGRAMS
Section
1 Overview Overview & Purpose 8
2 Purpose Overview & Purpose 8
3 Your Role Overview & Purpose – the Role you play 8
Comments of Cases Introduction 5
4
Format & Structure 13
The Consultative Framework Introduction 4
4.1
Overview & Purpose - The Role you Play 8
5 Structure Format and Structure 13
Situation Analysis Executive Summary 16
5.1
Analysis 15
5.2 The Problem Statement Executive Summary 12
5.3 Analysis Format & Structure – Analysis 17
5.3.1 Environmental Scanning/Analysis Format & Structure – Analysis 17
15 Alternatives Format & Structure - Recommendations 19
Recommendations/Plan of Action Executive Summary (briefly) 12
5.5
Recommendation/Plan of Action Section 19
Relationship- Final Recommendation 15
5.5.1
Analysis/Recommendations
5.6 Format versus Structure Format & Structure 13
5.7 Concluding Comments Conclusion 23
Report Presentation Format & Structure 13
Headings and Sub-Headings Writing your Report 8
6.0 Standards
Proof-read Report
Correct Language
Page 90 of 105
Appendix B
The two documents shown in this Appendix are available on the individual course
websites, or if they are not available please print them off from this document or ask your
professor to get a copy for you
The Case Analysis Guidelines – Simplified shown here is explained in greater detail on
the next page.
Page 91 of 105
Immediate Issue: Glaring issue(s) of Problem(s)
• Usually provided in first or second paragraph of case

• This is the problem, not the symptom
Basic Issues: Associated underlying issues
• Usually considered as reasons for problem – symptoms that created the problem
• This is a symptom – ask the question why or how the problem got to be a problem
Assumptions: (Things you think are important to be considered)
This is where you put forth your assumptions based on previous courses and personal
knowledge that you think are relevant to the future analysis of the case
Situational Analysis/Background
• Situational analysis is similar to Background information

• It is usually taken directly from the case, but re-worded in your words
• It provides the reader with information on the situation, and how it relates to your
problem statement
Analysis: (Issues Analysis or Information Summary)
• This is where you take information from the case and start the analysis – consider it
similar to background information on the issues and possibly how it became the
issue.
• In your analysis you can include a SWOT Analysis, and may wish to consider a
PEST(LE) Analysis
• (SWOT – Strengths/Weaknesses/Opportunities/Threats)
• (PEST(LE) – Political/Economic/Social/Technological/Legal/Environmental))
• Consider this section your Alternatives Section – the area where you discuss the
“pros” and “cons” of an idea
Recommendation(s)/Moving Forward & Implementation:
• Possible potential ways to improve – not all will be used

• This is where you brainstorm possible ways to improve/correct the problem – it is
based on your own work experiences and life skills, as well as from the analysis you
did in the section prior to this stage
Final Recommendation/Moving Forward and Timeline:
• Can be a combination of Recommendations and Implementations?

• This is where you take the combination of or a single correction(s) steps and develop
a plan and schedule to fix or analysis the problem in the first section
Implementation Timelines:
Page 92 of 105
• Can be in a chart or Gantt Chat format, but must be included

• Make sure it is realistic
The following Case Study Guideline/Worksheet is another format of the information

provided earlier. This is a three page document which allows you to input information on
the worksheet as you are working on the case, whether individually or in your group.
Page 93 of 105
Appendix C
Case Preparation Charts – Case Analysis Reports
There are several charts that can be used to assist the writer prepare and organize the
information provided in the Case Analysis document as well as the additional
information/thoughts gathered by the writer. Here are two examples of Case Preparation
Charts that can be considered.
Example 1:
This chart was developed by the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University
and has been adapted from the text “Learning with Cases”. It is used with permission.
Each course website should have a copy of this document on it, if it is not there then ask
you professor to post it.
The chart provides two processes that can and should be used, a Short Cycle (next
page) and a Long Cycle. (page after Short Cycle)
NOTE: this chart has been modified from its original by author. The modifications
include lines and splitting the processes.
Page 94 of 105
Case Preparation Chart

Case Title: _______________________________________ Case Assignment: ____________
Short Cycle Process Steps
1. Read opening and closing paragraphs
2. Identify
a. Who_______________________________________
b. What______________________________________
c. Why _______________________________________
d. When______________________________________
e. How_______________________________________
3. Quick look at case exhibits
4. Quick review of Case subtitles
5. Read assignment questions and reflect prior to proceeding with Long Cycle Process
Page 95 of 105
Case Preparation Chart

Long Cycle Process Steps
1. Detailed Reading of the Case
2. Analyze the Case
a. Define the Issue ___________________________________________

Immediate Issue (Specific decision, problem, challenge or opportunity
faced by the decision maker)
Basic Issues (Larger more generic in nature, they relate to content in
course)
b. Analyze the Case data ______________________________________
(Apply the course framework(s) and analytical tools)
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
c. Generate Alternatives _______________________________________

_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
d. Select decision criteria _______________________________________

__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
e. Assess alternatives __________________________________________

___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
(See additional information on next page)
Page 96 of 105
Qualitative + (plus) N (neutral) - (minus)

Quantitative + N - + N - + N -
Decision Go Go ? ? No No ? No No
f. Select Preferred alternative ____________________________________

(Preferred outcome)
g. Develop an action and implement plan
Timing
(Milestones)
Who
What
When
Where
How
Missing Information ___________________________________________

_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Assumptions ________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
Page 97 of 105
Example 2
Individual Case Preparation Chart

(Use bullet points)
Case Title: ______________________________ Your Full Name: ______________________
Main Characters
Name Title
Who
Main Issue (Choose One Main Issue/Problem – not a symptom of the issue)
What
Why
When
Is the Issue of low or high importance and urgency
Importance
I II
Urgency
III IV
Course Concepts (with references)

1
2
3
4
5
(Continued on next page)
Page 98 of 105
Alternatives
1
2
3
4
5
6
Decision Criteria
Alternative Advantages Disadvantages
1
2
3
4
5
6
Assessment of Decision Criteria
Preferred Alternative
Actions and Implementation
Assumptions (if any)
Page 99 of 105
Appendix D
Presentation Planning Chart
This chart has been created by a faculty member of the Lawrence Kinlin School of
Business, it is provided to you as a guideline for presentations as a group or an individual.
Member Names
Non-FOL Contact
1
2
3
4
5
Meeting Information
Meeting Date Meeting Time Meeting Location
Allocation of Job Duties

Job/Section Assigned to PowerPoint Slides
Page 100 of 105

Appendix E
Report and Presentation Criteria Chart
Criteria Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4

Answers go beyond the Answers fully meet the Answers do not Answers do not
assignment to explore the parameters of the address some address the
implications and arguments or assignment but do not aspect/issues of the assignment
evidence in new contexts or in exceed them assignment
particularly thoughtful, insightful AND/OR
Depth of and/or original ways AND/OR AND/OR
Analysis Answers are
Answers show a nuanced Report demonstrates a Answers demonstrate inconsistent with the
grasp of the issues good grasp of the a somewhat shaky issues (fails to address
issues but some grasp of the issues many or all of the key
awkwardness components or issues
explaining them
Evidence used to support the Evidence used to Connection between Evidence does not
central point is rich, detailed support the central argument and clearly support the
and well chosen point is well chosen, evidence is not clearly main argument (Main
though not particularly articulated in all cases Issue)
Evidence sections employ rich or detailed
appropriate illustrations and/or AND/OR AND/OR
quotations The connection
between argument (Where applicable) (Where applicable)
The connection between and evidence is clearly Consideration of Important opposing
Evidence agreement and evidence is articulated opposing evidence is evidence is ignored,
clearly and compellingly cursory or the thereby weakening the
articulated in all cases (Where applicable) evidence in not central argument
Some opposing convincingly refuted
(Where applicable) Important evidence is considered
opposing evidence (i.e., and refuted
evidence that might seem to
contradict your argument) is
considered and convincingly
refuted
Throughout answers, wording Answers are for the Wording is imprecise Throughout the paper,
is precise and unambiguous most part precisely of ambiguous fairly wording is imprecise
worded and often or ambiguous
Sentence structure is unambiguous
consistently clear and lucid AND/OR AND/OR
Sentence structure is
Clarity & Organization of answer as a mostly clear Sentence structure is Sentence structure is
whole is logical and quickly often confusing consistently confusing
Organization apparent Organization of
answers as a whole is Organization of the Organization of the
logical and apparent, answer as a whole can answer as a whole is
but transitions only be discerned with not logical or
between paragraphs effort discernible
are not consistently
smooth
Elegantly synthesizes and Synthesizes and Restates the same Answer are missing
reframes key points from paper brings closure but points as the topic most of the key points,
does not examine new paragraph without and does not
Conclusion Suggests new perspectives or perspectives or reframing them synthesize text
questions relevant to the questions information or is
central answer cursory
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Works Cited
http://www.garrreynolds.com/preso-tips/design/. (n.d.). Retrieved 09 03, 2015, from

GARRY REYNOLDS.COM: http://www.garrreynolds.com
McCombs. (n.d.). Formal Report Components. Retrieved 12 30, 2013, from

mccombs.utexas.edu: www.mccombs.utexas.edu
Unknown, B. N. (Unknown revised 2013 (N. Bishop)). Case Analysis Guidelines - PMAC.
University of Western Ontario, PMAC and Fanshawe College, Richard Ivey School
of Business for PMAC and Lawrence Kinlin School of Business. Toronto and
London ON: PMAC and Fanshawe College.
Unkown, D. S. (2007, revised 2013). Case, Assignment and Project Reports. Michigan
State University & Fanshawe College, Eli Broad Graduate School of Management
& Lawrence Kinlin School of Business. Michigan and London, ON: Michigan State
University & Fanshawe College.
(http://www.garrreynolds.com/preso-tips/design/, n.d.)
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Diploma Program Business – Logistics & Supply Chain

Graduate Certificate Programs Logistics & Supply Chain Management
Operations Management
Page 105 of 105

Writing Reports For Business SCM & OPM Programs - 7th Edition

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Writing Guidelines for

7th Edition N BISHOP

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Guidelines for Students in the

7th Edition - 2021

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Throughout this document, reference will be made to the “Case Study

Overview & Purpose

1. Case Analysis Reports

The Role you play – Case Analysis

What is a Case Study/Analysis?

A c as e will generally provide enough information to give the readers an

Writing the Case Analysis – the Writer’s Perspective

The historic town of XX is located in the mountains of country X. The town

Organizing the Report

This page left blank intentionally

Writing your Report

o (Also referred to as Conclusion)

Project/Case Name Case Name

Case A simple design, aligned to the right of the page

Always use the same type font for all words

• It should be professional in appearance

Graphics on the Cover Page

Case Analysis Report Title can be Centred or offset to left or right

Date Submitted Always include the submission date (due date)

Example of Table of Contents with Lines

Section Content/Topic Page

Example of Table of Contents without Lines

Section Content/Topic Page

How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format

By Justin Buck, eHow Contributor

How to Write an Executive Summary in APA Format thumbnail many reviewers

Instructions - Writing the Executive Summary

Type the body of your summary directly below.

Tips & Warnings

with most short academic papers (1 to 40 pages), the abstract is

Another article on Executive Summaries, found in an old file, citation unknown.

Writing a Good Executive Summary - Guidelines for Students

An Executive Summary is sometimes referred to synonymously with a scholarly Abstract,

Writing a strong Executive Summary is quite feasible if a student is careful about

Format and Style – Case Analysis Reports

Something to always considering writing professional reports (also applicable to

This format, which appears to be uncomplicated, can be considered as a good starting

Situational Analysis/Background Information

• Immediate Issue (Main Issue/Problem Statement)

o The act of laying claim to or taking possession of something

A) An assuming that something is true

As a student writing a case analysis, the concept of assumptions is based on information

• Analysis (Information Summary/Issue Analysis)

This is also referred to as Environmental Scanning, either term is acceptable.

According to Web Finance Inc. an Environmental Analysis is an examination of the

According to the Society for Human Resources Management, Environmental

Analysis Tools to consider

• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats (SWOT)

o SWOT Analysis is applicable to both internal and external factors in all

• Threat of new entrants

INTERNAL - The internal environment of an organization consists of variables (S & W)

• Organizational Structure: How is the organization currently structured? Is

• Approach #1 – Some professors will encourage and allow students to write

• Approach #2 – Other professors will want to keep students focused strictly on

It is similar to a SWOT Analysis, but goes farther

POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL, LEGAL, ENVIRONMENTAL