Types & Evaluation of Data
What are the two main types of data used in business decisions?
What are quantitative and qualitative data?
What type of survey question lets respondents write their own answers?
What is an open-ended question?
What is the purpose of a business report?
To present information that helps make decisions or solve problems.
Why should you document your sources in a report?
To avoid plagiarism and support credibility.
What’s one way a company could use email marketing to connect with customers during Halloween season?
By sending a spooky-themed newsletter with limited-time offers, festive visuals, or fun subject lines that grab attention.
When should you use secondary data instead of primary data?
When collecting new data isn’t possible or practical.
Name one advantage and one disadvantage of using surveys.
Advantage: anonymity; Disadvantage: low response rate.
What are the three main sections of a report’s body?
What are findings, conclusions, and recommendations?
What is “cherry-picking” in data presentation?
Selecting only data that supports your argument while ignoring opposing evidence.
What is the name of GCC’s student-run store that will be debuting this November that offers Cougar-branded merchandise and products?
What is the Cougar Co-op?
What is data integrity and why is it important?
It means data remains accurate and consistent over time, supporting credible decisions.
What are two rules for writing effective survey questions?
Be neutral and ask one idea per question.
Which type of report format uses short bullet points and visuals for a progressive audience?
What is a presentation deck?
Name one difference between written reports and slide decks.
Written reports are text-based; slide decks use visual summaries.
How has the rise of remote and hybrid work changed business communication in the past few years?
It’s increased the use of digital tools like Teams and Zoom, emphasized clear written communication, and made virtual collaboration skills more important.
Name two criteria to evaluate the reliability of an internet source.
Check the author’s credentials and publication date (also accuracy, bias, and purpose).
Which type of chart is best for showing parts of a whole?
What is a pie chart (or donut/stacked bar)?
Name two ways to make report headings effective.
Keep them parallel and consistent in style.
What does it mean to “revise for content” when refining a report?
Ensuring information is complete, accurate, and relevant.
What is the biggest advantage — and one risk — of businesses using AI tools like ChatGPT for communication?
Advantage: faster drafting and idea generation. Risk: inaccuracy or loss of authenticity.
What type of bias occurs when people favor information that supports their existing beliefs?
What is confirmation bias?
What are two ways to make an infographic effective?
Ensure clarity and accuracy and storyboard the content before designing.
When should you use criteria-based organization for a report?
When analyzing data, drawing conclusions, or making recommendations.
What are three elements to check when proofreading a final report?
Formatting consistency, grammar/punctuation, and visual clarity.
Many companies now practice “radical transparency” in communication. What does that mean?
It means openly sharing company decisions, challenges, and data to build trust with audiences.