Department of Finance
Date of this Version
2002
Document Type
Article
Citation
Journal of Actuarial Practice 10 (2002), pp. 5-62
Abstract
In this paper, we discuss techniques for developing effective communication skills, focusing in particular on technical writing, the use of graphics, and presentation. The key principles of effective communication that we propose to actuaries are as follows:
• Identify your audience and consider their needs and abilities;
• Focus on substantive content;
• Choose appropriate communication tools;
• Use language that is simple, concrete, and familiar;
• Integrate text, numbers, and graphics;
• Respond to information complexity creatively.
We focus in particular on the use of graphics as a communications tool as they are an efficient and potentially highly effective means of conveying information. We also describe several common errors in graphic construction-and how to correct them-using examples from the business world.
Included in
Accounting Commons, Business Administration, Management, and Operations Commons, Corporate Finance Commons, Finance and Financial Management Commons, Insurance Commons, Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Commons
Comments
Copyright 2002 Absalom Press