Sample Answer
Business Communications Report
Introduction
This report reviews the current management and operational systems at Elite Education Institute and recommends improvements across teaching, communication, student care, and staff management. The purpose is to identify weaknesses, propose realistic solutions, and convince management that adopting these recommendations will enhance institutional performance, student satisfaction, and staff productivity. The analysis draws on communication and management theories such as the ACE communication model, high- vs. low-context communication, and conflict resolution frameworks.
Systems and Processes
Elite Education Institute operates efficiently but faces challenges in communication flow and administrative coordination. Currently, the use of email as the primary internal communication tool results in message overload and delays. Student record systems are partially automated but not integrated across departments, causing duplication and slower service delivery.
Recommendations:
Implement a centralised management information system (MIS) that connects admissions, academics, and finance. This will ensure real-time data sharing and better decision-making. Additionally, adopting project management tools such as Trello or Asana can streamline staff collaboration and accountability. These systems support the ACE model (Accuracy, Clarity, Efficiency) by improving information accuracy and promoting transparent communication.
Teaching
Elite’s teaching approach is strong in content but inconsistent in delivery. Some lecturers rely heavily on theory without applying interactive learning techniques. This limits student engagement and critical thinking.
Recommendations:
Introduce blended learning combining online and in-person teaching to accommodate diverse learning styles. Training lecturers in constructive alignment will help ensure learning outcomes match assessments and teaching activities. Encouraging teachers to use digital platforms such as Moodle or Canvas can also promote consistency and feedback transparency.
By adopting these changes, Elite will move closer to student-centred learning, aligning with contemporary higher education standards and boosting overall satisfaction.
Student Pastoral Care
Currently, Elite offers limited pastoral support, focusing mainly on academic assistance. However, students—especially international ones—often require help with well-being, adjustment, and motivation.
Recommendations:
Create a Student Support Centre with trained counsellors and peer mentors to handle both academic and emotional needs. Regular well-being check-ins, cultural integration events, and workshops on study skills and stress management will promote holistic support.
This approach aligns with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, recognising that students must feel secure and supported before they can perform academically. Improved pastoral care will also enhance retention and institutional reputation.
Workplace Communication
Internal communication at Elite can be improved for efficiency and tone. Staff feedback suggests occasional misunderstandings between academic and administrative teams, partly due to cultural diversity and differing communication styles.
Recommendations:
Provide intercultural communication training to raise awareness of high- and low-context communication (Hall, 1976). For instance, in high-context cultures, meaning is implied and indirect, whereas in low-context cultures, communication is explicit. Understanding these differences reduces friction in a multicultural workplace.
Elite should also adopt weekly team briefings to share updates openly and ensure alignment between departments. Transparent communication strengthens trust and organisational culture.
Staff Management
Elite’s staff structure is competent but could benefit from clearer performance management systems and professional growth opportunities. Currently, appraisals are infrequent and not always linked to development plans.
Recommendations:
Implement a Performance Management Framework (PMF) that combines annual reviews with continuous feedback. Managers should use the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Way Forward) for performance coaching. In addition, professional development workshops in leadership, emotional intelligence, and technology will boost morale and skill retention.
Creating mentorship programs between senior and junior lecturers can also promote institutional learning and cohesion.
