The term report is used to denote any required written communication that goes beyond a simple recording of facts (such as completion of a pro forma shift production schedule) and which is based on a level of analysis and/or research.

Where reports include technical information or details, then the writer would have the required technical knowledge/capability.

Conclusions and/or recommendations where required are based on prior research or analysis of data. The analysis and conclusions should be consistent with the level of skill and knowledge of an employee working at that level. Simple analysis and research would be required.

If data research and analysis is necessary to produce information for the report, Unit MEM16009A (Research and analyse engineering information should also be selected).

For preparation of simple technical reports, see unit MEM16014A (Report technical information).

Band: B

Unit Weight: 2

Path 1

MEM14005A

Plan a complete activity

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Identify report requirements

1.1. Requirements for a written report are identified and confirmed with appropriate persons.

1.2. Information for the report is accessed according to workplace procedures.

1.3. Information is assessed for currency, accuracy and relevance for inclusion in the report.

2. Prepare and produce report

2.1. A structure and outline of the report are developed according to identified report requirements.

2.2. The report is written using terminology appropriate to the reader and established principles of report writing.

2.3. Findings and conclusions are based on factual analysis.

2.4. Recommendations, alternatives/suggestions are given, and supporting evidence supplied, where required.

2.5. Protocols, conventions and legal requirements related to acknowledgements and intellectual property are applied where necessary.

3. Finalise and distribute report

3.1. The report is checked for accuracy and edited as required.

3.2. The completed report is consistent with objectives and requirements.

3.3. The report is copied, distributed and stored according to instructions and workplace procedures.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

reading, interpreting and following information on written job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures, charts, lists, drawings and other applicable reference documents

following instructions

checking and clarifying information

sorting information/data

assessing information/data for relevance

using terminology and language appropriate to the target audience

structuring and writing reports

applying principles of report writing

presenting findings and conclusions based on factual analysis

making recommendations

managing own time

planning and sequencing information

reviewing and editing

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

principles of report writing

report types and purposes

structure, style and parts of a report

use of language and expression in reports

common pitfalls, such as ambiguity, truisms, tautology, verbosity, circumlocution etc.

report numbering systems

techniques for reviewing and editing

importance and benefits of preparing reports appropriate for the intended audience

referencing and the importance of acknowledging sources

safe work practices and procedures

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to write reports. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with writing reports or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Requirements

Purpose, expected outcomes, scope and nature, timeframe, required resources

Report

Reports types:

accident/injury

equipment report

memo and letter reports

information report

analytical report

Report structure:

title page

table of contents

summary

introduction

body (findings and conclusions)

recommendations

references

appendices

glossary

Report content:

text

graphs

charts

tables

diagrams

Principles of report writing

Use of headings, subheadings, sectioning and numbering

Objectivity

Expression

Language and grammar

Sentence and paragraph structure

Logical ordering and sequencing

Summarising and editing

Layout and spacing

Content relevancy

Use of graphics, charts, tables, illustrations etc.

Unit sector

Communication

This unit contains employability skills.