Nasa technical memorandum template – A business memo is a document used to communicate an idea or project to a group. A memo is an effective communication tool in modern times. This is a great way of capturing information that might otherwise go unnoticed in an email. It can be used to communicate important information to the entire team, or just to the person who needs to know. You can use business memos to describe a business plan, introduce a new product, share an idea, or announce a change of direction.
Most business messages are informational and written with a clear and direct opening explaining the main purpose and point of the messages. Front-loading is a term used to describe this. The middle paragraphs or sentences, give more concrete details, developing the message, and finally, the close winds the message down, ends on a note of goodwill and requests any follow-up.
In business writing, the memorandum is also used for routine requests. These memorandums are formatted with the direct question in the opening of the memo. That can be uncomfortable to those who prefer to beat around the bush in the opening and are unaccustomed to asking for anything directly up front. Be direct and don’t be shy. The request isn’t meant to be controversial or persuasive. It is expected that the reader will be open to it. The memo’s body provides context details and closes with a deadline for the request. If necessary, it asks for further follow-up.
Memos can also respond to requests, describe a new procedure, or announce some major news. They can be fairly short, such as the invitation to the company picnic. Or they could take up about a screen full of type. Anything longer should be sent as an attachment, since the reader’s on-screen attention is fairly limited, and typically, he or she is usually busy. Use plain English and simple words, and keep the tone fairly conversational, using the active voice. Be sure, too, to avoid using any type of Instant Messaging abbreviations. Also, as with any written document, don’t forget to edit and proofread your work.
A well-written memo does not have to be complex. It serves its purpose by being simple and straight to the point. Interestingly enough, the memo concept has its hidden benefits such as those of keeping the writer off the phone and preventing him or her from getting off the point of the intended message. This time-saving strategy allows for more productivity time for everyone.