8 Report Formats for Business (Examples & Templates)

See report types and formats that bring business impact. Get report writing formats, design formats, and file formats including PDF, PPT, & one-page reports.

Hadar Peretz

7 minute read

Short answer

What are the best report formats?

1. Official reports: legally required, no design
2. Formal reports: diving into structure and detail
3. Informal reports: quick and direct communication
4. Memo reports: addressing specific business issues
5. Letter reports: bridging external communication gaps
6. Audit and proposal reports: showcasing financial health
7. Real-time reports: the power of now
8. Augmented and virtual reality reports: immersive reporting experiences

The format of your report is critical for achieving your goal

The format of your report content, design, and delivery are all critical for achieving your goal. While content is king, the design and delivery of your report also significantly influence its impact.

A well-designed, easily accessible report ensures that your audience engages with and understands the information you're presenting.

Because you never get a second chance to make a first impression, a well-designed report will reinforce your message and convey professionalism, but more than that, it will aid in comprehension, and encourage action.

Let's delve into why these aspects are so pivotal.

Report format types in business

In the business world, the way you communicate information is just as crucial as the information itself. Different writing formats cater to various needs, ensuring clarity, precision, and effectiveness.

Let's dive into the primary writing formats and understand their significance.

1) Official reports: legally required reports issued by the government

Public companies are required to submit various reports to ensure transparency and inform investors. These reports are filed with regulatory bodies like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

These official reports use a strict formalized format set by regulators. They apply no design, no storytelling, and no messaging of any kind.

For this reason, we will not delve into this type of report format. Instead, we advise you to look up the format on the regulator’s website.

The most common reports include:

• Annual Reports (10-K): Comprehensive overview of the company's financial health, operations, and risks.
• Quarterly Reports (10-Q): Updated financial data and a condensed version of the company's financial statements, filed three times a year.
• Current Reports (8-K): Discloses specific events like acquisitions, leadership changes, or bankruptcy.
• Proxy Statements (DEF 14A): Provides information about issues to be voted on at annual shareholder meetings.

Example: Apple's Annual Report is a classic example of an official report, Annual Reports (10-K) detailing their risk factors, financial statement, and compensations,

2) Formal reports: diving into structure and detail

Formal reports are the backbone of corporate communication. Picture a comprehensive annual report from a multinational company sent to their stakeholders.

It's detailed, and structured, and provides a deep dive into the company's performance with stories, case studies, and infographics.

These reports often start with an executive summary, giving a snapshot of the content. They're essential when stakeholders need a thorough understanding of a topic.

For instance, when a company is considering a merger, a formal report can provide all the necessary details, from financial health to market positioning.

Tip: Always start with an outline when drafting a formal report. It ensures you cover all essential points.

Example: Apple's Environmental Progress Report is a classic example of an official report, detailing their vision for sustainability, as well as their strategies, initiatives, and impact.

Interactive remake of Apple's sustainability report: