How to develop Technical Reports and Discussion Papers

Printed Information

Technical reports give detailed information on complex or technical issues.

Technical reports provide background information that can be used in making decisions about complex issues, or that allows good quality, accurate information to be provided to those members of the community who are interested or affected by a proposal or issue.

Method:

1. Consider the target audience, the agency or group budget, and production costs to determine the appropriate media via which to distribute the report (e.g. web, print or CD-Rom).
2. Prepare mailing list, in accordance with access to addresses and the scope of the mail-out.
3. Prepare the reports and discussion papers using simple language with an emphasis on visual communication.
4. Publicise the availability of the reports and/or discussion papers. If options are available, ask in what form (email, print, web address or CD-Rom) the person would like to receive the material.
5. Provide opportunities for submission of responses, that is, allow sufficient time for detailed consideration and development of responses, and provide a variety of ways for the responses to be delivered (post, drop off points, or email.).
6. Provide contact details for people with queries.
7. Advise on the opportunities for participation.
8. Collate and monitor responses.

Uses/strengths:

• Can provide a large number of people and organizations with information.
• Can be well thought out and prepared by those with considerable knowledge, interest and expertise in the issue.
• Provides for a thorough explanation of project issues.

Special considerations/weaknesses:

• Some participants may find the reports too detailed.
• Can be costly to produce.
• Unless clearly written, can cause confusion.
• Generic nature may not make it relevant to local issues.
• Cannot ensure people have received, read or understood the information.
• Some people are not comfortable responding in writing.
• Time consuming to develop.
• Time allowances for people to prepare responses.
• Follow up consultation activities are generally required.