Category Archives: Corporate reporting

Monster annual reports: Frankenstein’s still alive

By Richard Ketchen | Published: October 26, 2010
When the 2006 annual report from Hong Kong banking giant HSBC thudded onto the doorsteps of shareholders, the 458-page beast weighed in at 1.47 kilos or 3.2 pounds. The monster report was so heavy that the UK’s Royal Mail limited the number its workers were allowed to carry, to prevent back injuries. Pundits, meanwhile, claimed [...]
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4 narrative elements for effective annual reports

By Richard Ketchen | Published: April 1, 2010
A good annual report has all the elements of a good story. It offers powerful images, plenty of detail and a story line that interests, captivates and engages the reader. Producing an effective annual report doesn’t require you to write like Hemingway or Grisham, although that wouldn’t hurt. The effectiveness of your report depends more [...]
Also posted in Financial writing, Narrative structure, Stakeholder communication, Sustainability reporting | 1 Comment

The slow transition to online reporting

By Richard Ketchen | Published: February 15, 2010
Contrary to the most pessimistic predictions, the annual report isn’t endangered. It’s simply evolving. Whether it’s published online or in print, the annual report remains one of the best opportunities to speak directly with stakeholders and to tell a company’s story.
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10 ideas for improving your next corporate report

By Richard Ketchen | Published: January 10, 2010
Producing an effective annual report, or any other corporate report for that matter, requires more than attractive images and good graphics. You also need compelling copy.  These 10 ideas will help improve the effectiveness of your writing.
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