Compare and Evaluate the Alternatives

A yardstick report looks at multiple alternatives, or solutions, to a problem or need. The parameters are defined with which an alternative is chosen, each possible alternative is then reviewed against an established set of criteria (the “yardstick” measure), and a recommendation is made. Organizations use the yardstick approach to make a decision about a product, program, or service based on an analysis of viable alternatives against an established set of criteria. For example, the yardstick approach is effective for companies that must establish specifications for equipment purchases and then compare each manufacturer’s product with the established specs. Instructions Write a yardstick report for one of the options below. Option 1: You work for an organization that wants to encourage long-term wellness and is considering offering employees discounted fitness club memberships, on-site yoga classes, or ergonomic workstations. Write a yardstick report that describes and compares the three alternatives in terms of 1) costs, 2) long-term benefits, and 3) expected participation level. Research companies that offer similar benefits, compare the alternatives, and make a workable recommendation. You are writing this report at the request of your CEO (Corrinna Burdek).

 

The organization is staffed by members of the Business Communications II A01 class (this information is helpful for criteria 3). Option 2: Write a yardstick report to your instructor and peers suggesting how users can protect themselves from cybercrime on social networking sites. Choose a specific site (e.g., Facebook, Indeed, etc.) and research specific examples (fraud, identity theft, scams, etc.). Using primary and secondary sources (your own observations and experiences as well as expert advice), identify three possible solutions. Establish specific criteria by which to measure the solutions. Evaluate each solution based on your criteria. Conclude your report by identifying the best way users can protect themselves. Option 3: Write a yardstick report identifying alternative actions your organization could take, evaluating each solution and recommending the best choice. Address your report to the person who has the power to approve your recommendation. Possibilities include (select one): Making your organization more eco-friendly Finding an additional worker for your department Making your organization more employee-friendly Making a change to improve efficiency Making changes to improve accessibility for customers or employees with disabilities Option 4. Write a yardstick report that examines two or more alternatives for a product, service, or program of your choice. Establish specific criteria by which to compare and evaluate the alternatives.

 

Evaluate each alternative based on your criteria. Conclude your report with a viable recommendation. Structure your yardstick report as follows: Introduction. Open with the purpose for the report and explain how the report is organized. Problem statement. Describe the background, problem, or need. Solutions and alternatives. Explain possible solutions and alternatives. Established criteria. Establish criteria for comparing the alternatives; explain how the criteria were selected or developed. Compare alternatives. Discuss and evaluate each alternative in terms of the criteria. Use a table for comparison. Conclusions and recommendations. Draw conclusions and make recommendations. References. Include the sources you used in a references section at the end of the report. Refer to the sample Yardstick Report (below) for guidance.