How to Create an Effective Findings and Recommendations Template for Your Reports

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader

Clear communication of findings and recommendations is essential for any report to have impact. Without a well-organized template, important insights can get lost or misunderstood. A strong findings and recommendations template helps readers quickly grasp key points and take action based on the report. This post explains how to build a practical, easy-to-use template that improves clarity and usefulness in your reports.

Structured report page with findings and recommendations

Why a Template Matters

Reports often contain complex data and detailed analysis. When findings and recommendations are buried in dense paragraphs or scattered throughout the document, readers struggle to identify what matters most. A template provides a consistent format that highlights:

• Key findings clearly and concisely

• Actionable recommendations linked to each finding

• Easy navigation for readers scanning the report

  
  

Using a template saves time for both the report writer and reader. Writers can focus on content rather than formatting. Readers can quickly understand results and next steps without rereading sections.

Essential Elements of a Findings and Recommendations Template

To create an effective template, include these core components:

1. Clear Headings and Subheadings

Use distinct headings for Findings and Recommendations. If your report covers multiple topics, break these sections down further with subheadings. This structure helps readers locate information quickly.

2. Numbered or Bulleted Lists

Present findings and recommendations as numbered or bulleted lists. This format improves readability and allows easy reference during discussions or follow-up.

3. Concise and Specific Statements

Each finding should be a brief statement of fact or observation, supported by data or evidence from the report. Avoid vague language. For example:

• Weak: “Sales could improve.”

• Strong: “Sales in the Northeast region declined by 12% in Q2 compared to Q1.”

  
  

Recommendations should directly address the findings with clear actions:

• “Increase marketing budget by 15% in the Northeast region to boost sales.”

  
  

4. Link Findings to Recommendations

Make it easy to see which recommendation corresponds to which finding. You can number findings and match recommendations with the same numbers or use a two-column layout.

5. Space for Additional Notes or Comments

Include a section or space for extra context, limitations, or follow-up steps. This helps clarify nuances without cluttering the main points.

How to Design Your Template Layout

A clean, simple layout improves comprehension. Consider these design tips:

• Use a two-column table with Findings on the left and Recommendations on the right. This side-by-side format visually connects related points.

• Use bold or colored headings to separate sections clearly.

• Leave enough white space around text blocks to avoid overwhelming the reader.

• Use consistent fonts and sizes for a professional look.

• Include page numbers and report title in the header or footer for easy reference.

  
  

Example Template Structure

| Finding Number | Finding Description | Recommendation |

|----------------|---------------------|----------------|

| 1 | Customer satisfaction dropped by 8% in Q3. | Conduct customer feedback surveys to identify pain points. |

| 2 | Website traffic decreased by 15% after redesign. | Review website analytics and optimize user experience. |

This simple table format keeps information organized and easy to scan.

Printed report page with findings and recommendations table

Tips for Writing Effective Findings and Recommendations

• Be objective: Base findings on data and avoid personal opinions.

• Be actionable: Recommendations should be realistic and specific enough to guide decisions.

• Prioritize: Highlight the most critical findings and recommendations first.

• Use plain language: Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse readers.

• Review and revise: Edit for clarity, brevity, and accuracy.

  
  

Using Your Template Across Different Reports

Once you create a solid template, adapt it for various report types such as project evaluations, audits, or research studies. Customize headings or add sections as needed, but keep the core structure consistent. This consistency builds familiarity for your audience and improves overall communication.

Final Thoughts

A well-crafted findings and recommendations template transforms complex reports into clear, actionable documents. It helps readers quickly understand key insights and what steps to take next. By focusing on clarity, structure, and simplicity, you can make your reports more effective and valuable.

Start by drafting your template with the essential elements outlined here. Test it with a sample report and gather feedback from readers. Refine the layout and wording until it supports clear communication every time.