11.1 Report Functions, Strategies, and Formats (Obj. 1) Your Task. For the following reports, (1) name the report’s primary function (informational or analytical), (2) recommend a direct or
indirect strategy of development, and (3) select a report format
(memo or e-mail, letter, or manuscript).
a. A proposal from a group of citizens to their county government asking for funds to silence the train whistles and create a “quiet zone” around private residences near above-ground railroad tracks.
b. A yardstick report in the leisure industry put together by consul- tants who compare the potential of a future theme park at three different sites.
c. A report submitted by a sales rep to her manager describing her attendance at a marathon pre-race exhibition, including the reac- tions of runners to a new low-carbohydrate energy drink.
d. A feasibility report from an administrative assistant to his boss exploring the savings from buying aftermarket ink-jet cartridges as opposed to the original refills recommended by the manufacturer.
e. A progress report from a location manager to a Hollywood produc- tion company describing safety, fire, and environmental precautions taken for the shooting of a stunt involving blowing up a power boat in the Downtown Long Beach marina.
f. A report from a national shipping company telling state authorities how it has improved its safety program so that its trucks now com- ply with state regulations. The report describes but doesn’t interpret the program.
g. A report prepared by an outside consultant examining whether a sports franchise should refurbish its stadium or look to relocate to another city.