Page 126 - SREENARAYANAGURU OPEN UNIVERSITY

While longer forms have their place, the judiciously crafted
executive summary will always have an important role in
human affairs.

2.1.3.1 Guidelines to Write an Executive Sum-
mary

To write an effective executive summary, follow this
template with four main parts:

1. Start by explaining the problem or need the project
Project need addresses. Include relevant research and customer feedback
to emphasise the importance of solving the problem.

Example: In response to customer feedback, 52% of our
customers demanded a simpler and more affordable watch.
Additionally, competitor watch selections often hinge on
price, as mentioned by 87% of surveyed customers. To meet
the needs of our existing customers and enter new markets,
we aim to develop a series of watches that cater to this
specific market segment.

2. Clearly outline the recommended solution or project
Recommended objectives. Be persuasive in presenting the solution, even
solution if the presenter does not have all details mapped out at this
stage.

Continuing the example: Our proposed new watch series
will start at 20% lower cost than our current cheapest option,
with the potential for even greater savings of 40% or more
based on material and movement choices. To achieve this,
we plan to:

◊ Introduce watches made from new materials like
silicone or wood.

◊ Use high-quality quartz movement instead of in-house
automatic movement.

◊ Offer customizable band options, focusing on
providing flexibility and choice in contrast to
traditional luxury watches.

◊ Maintain rigorous quality control to ensure our new
watches maintain the same world-class precision as
our current offerings.

Solution value 3. Explain the value of the solution. This section checks
how the proposed solution will address and improve the initial
problem. Include expected results, financial information,

120 SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing