What is a Memorandum?

Memoranda, or "memos," are brief notes -- usually circulated within (internal to) an organization, and having one or more of the following purposes:

• announce events
• give instructions
• explain procedures
• make requests
• confirm agreements
• remind people
• promote projects

Tone is often more controversial in memos than in other kinds of documents, because in some cases you may have an unanticipated audience or a wide range of readers. The heading usually includes "Date; To; From; and Subject" sub-heads, and content usually does not exceed half a page in length. Memos make the writer visible in an organization, and help create and maintain business relationships within the company.

To reinforce the message, writers use page layout elements:

• ample white space
• clear paragraphing
• bulleted lists
• heads and sub-heads
• format

Directions:

• * Write a memo to your instructor informing him/her about the controversial subject you've chosen for your oral presentation and issue paper.
• Briefly list the different sides in the controversy.
• Explain how the subject can be made relevant to your SOM 491 peers.
• Provide contact information in the event the instructor needs to set up a conference, or wants to alert you quickly about any problems related to the project.

** You may be asked to send this memo via eĞmail. If so, use the same format, even though some mail systems put headers at the top (giving sender information).

Tips for Proceeding:

• Strive for a professional tone.
• Keep your memo as concise as possible.

Objectives: Memo-writing; page layout; conciseness of thought and presentation.