Is the purpose of the memo clear?
The purpose of the memo is clearly presented in the direct, concise introduction, which states the topic, the purpose, and the overall benefits of the proposal.
Does the memo connect with the audience? Can the audience see how this would be beneficial to everyone involved?
The writer presents examples that would be meaningful to an administrator, i.e. time-saving, cost-cutting, and a general improvement in efficiency. The memo also refers directly to the most recent budget report, in which the president called for cost-cutting measures to keep the university afloat. Furthermore, the writer shows how the implementation would benefit students (by encouraging more to vote), elected officials (by bringing them to office more swiftly), and the environment (by reducing paper usage).
Does the memo predict audience reaction by addressing certain issues?
The writer predicts that the president may wonder why something that isn’t broken needs to be fixed, but immediately answers by showing the benefits of the proposed change.
Does the writer support his/her claim with research?
The research presented is quite vague. The writer could have strengthened the arguments by using direct quotes from students who complained about time wasted in long lineups. As well, a quick survey could have been conducted to gather students’ views on electronic vs. paper-pencil voting, and the results summarized in the memo. Other details, such as how many years it would take for the implementation to pay for itself, would have been relevant for the administration.
Does the memo address counterargument/opposing views?
Yes, it mentions extra costs of equipment and retraining for election officials, as well as the issue of malfunction due to power failures. In each case, it predicts that challenges can be overcome.
Does the writer recognize constraints (organizational, legal, ethical, financial, etc?
This angle is dealt with competently.
Is the memo written clearly and with correct grammar, with a minimum number of errors?
Some sentences tend to be too lengthy and would benefit from a few commas. In some instances, semicolons are used incorrectly. The word “exponentially” is used incorrectly. There are a few typos. However, the writer’s meaning is seldom affected by these minor errors.
Is the memo formatted the correct way?
Section headings should be set off in boldface, underlining or larger typeface.
