Yardstick report

Definition:
The term yardstick is used in reference to anything which serves as a test or
standard of measurement, comparison or judgement. Therefore, a yardstick
report is one that looks at multiple solutions to a single problem. By defining
the criteria with which a solution is chosen, each possible solution is then
explained and a recommendation is made.
Basically, the yardstick is the way to measure several solutions to see which
is best for a particular problem when there is more than one option. In the
end, one solution is recommended based upon the facts and how it best fits
into the criteria.
Characteristics of a yardstick report
As it is one type of report it has the basic characteristics that a report has. It
also has characteristics which distinguish it from other types of reports.
These include:

It focuses on finding the best solution for a single problem from

different alternatives
It identifies a problem at the beginning of the report
It recommends a solution based on some standard criteria
Format of Yardstick report
Yardstick report has its own conventional format. And it follows the following
trend.
Introduction
o Purpose and overview
Problem statement
o Background
Solutions and alternatives
Established criterias
Compare alternatives
o Tables and grids can be used
Conclusions and recommendations
Basic steps in writing yardstick report include:
1. Clearly identify the problem at the beginning of the report, by clearly
stating the problem at hand.
2. List and explain all possible solutions to the problem.
3. Define or establish criteria for alternatives evaluation. The criteria
must be specific enough to narrow down the solutions.
4. Discuss each alternative in terms of the criteria. It is important that
the analysis of each option be thorough and clearly explained.
5. Decide on a solution and make a recommendation. At this point the
facts should make the recommendation clear.