EXECUTIVE SUMMARY GUIDELINES

SYSTEMS ANALYSIS AND DESIGN REPORTS

WHEN SHOULD IT BE WRITTEN?

After the report body is completed.

FOR WHOM IS IT WRITTEN?

Top level management of firm; CEO and other C-level officers.

WHAT SHOULD IT INCLUDE?

First, briefly mention (each as appropriate):

A. Background

B. Purpose

C. Problem, and

D. Procedures you used

Then, include

E. KEY findings; and

F. Recommendations & Conclusions

Such as:

1. MAIN Systems and subsystems

-- MAIN Functions (Reports, Operations, Procedures, Design Approaches used, etc.)

2. Future Requirements (Good consultants should always leave the customer “wanting more”)

WHAT ARE THE SOURCES FOR THE INFORMATION IN THIS SUMMARY?

Read back over your whole report and summarize what you have done and discovered. Highlight the main points. This is like a report summary, only it should be action-oriented.

RECOMMENDED PAGE LENGTH FOR EXECUTIVE SUMMARY?

Approximately 10% or less of total length of the report body (2-3 pages MAXIMUM).