– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
UKZN Extended Learning recently hosted members from the Department of Health on our Business Communication course. Organisations and businesses, regardless of industry, can benefit from using practical business communication tools. In addition to providing an opportunity to track and analyse the organisation’s progress, these tools can also identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth. All organisations have to comply with regulations that impose requirements for business reporting. Many organisations also need to maintain regular business reporting and monitoring to ensure that members of the organisation and the relevant stakeholders are aware of organisational performance.
A business report provides an overview of all aspects of the organisation’s performance. Equipping business management with the skills required to produce business reports is essential for leaders to make informed decisions. After gathering and evaluating information, resolutions and recommendations can only be reached by leaders if detailed reports are available. Reports can provide information regarding business issues and may bring about the appropriate course of action.
Delegates from the Department of Health listened attentively and participated throughout the programme. They provided positive feedback on the programme’s value that they can use on their return to the workplace. Ms Mthokozisi Khumalo (Acting District Director, Department of Health) highlighted that:
“The style and approach of the facilitators were excellent, reaching to every one of us in a way that we understood. And the content, annunciations, and emphasis made it clear. I feel like the report writing format, presentation skills and overcoming barriers of communication during a presentation are elements of the course that I can apply in my working environment going forward. The manner of assessment has helped me with achieving a flow for report writing. This helps in reaching the audience and making sure they receive the information accordingly using the format. Previously, we would just write a report, but it wouldn’t have a clear flow of information.”
Sharing her experience with us, Ms Narissa Moodley (Director for Strategic Planning, Department of Health) stated:
“The facilitators were well prepared, and the programme clearly outlined what needed to be done. The presentations were also clear, and the style was compatible with what we are used to in the working environment. The reinforcement of report writing and having an acceptable standard that we can comply with within the department. We also learnt to be consistent with how we produce documents and presentations. The manner of assessments was interactive and engaging, which prompted our critical thinking skills. The practical session allowed for me to analyse how information is received by the audience, and I was able to recognise the things that I could be doing that may be useful and eradicating what is not helpful.”
An organisation’s business reports and business communication tools offer valuable insights and details about the progress, growth and potential setbacks. Communicating effectively in business will provide critical information that will assist in forecasting and decision-making. Managers also use business reports to find oddities that need further investigation. Transparency is a key component of business communication. By regularly reporting throughout the year, businesses can measure and compare their performance and reference the areas of improvement that require attention.
If you would like to equip yourself with the necessary business skills required by employers to meet organisational needs, please get in touch with us or click here for more information on this programme.
Nokwanda Mokoena
T: +27 31 260 3796