What is the recommended practice for reporting to clients?

• A. Adopt standard format for each report and agree with client on number and type of reports to provide
• B. Submit reports periodically without client input
• C. Only provide oral updates
• D. Use different formats for every report

Answer: (A)

Clear, consistent reporting that aligns with the client’s needs. The best practice is to adopt a standard format for every report and agree with the client on how many reports will be provided and what type of information they’ll include. This sets upfront expectations, keeps communication predictable, and makes it easy for the client to review progress over time.

A standard report helps everyone stay on the same page. It typically covers progress against the plan, milestones reached, current issues and risks, upcoming work, decisions needed, and next steps. With a consistent structure, the client can quickly find the same information in every report, compare status across periods, and hold the engagement to the agreed scope and timeline.

Reports without client input can miss what’s important to them, oral updates alone neglect a formal, reviewable record, and changing formats each time creates confusion and reduces clarity.