Publisher's Synopsis
The preparation and presentation of the annual report is a major challenge facing many companies. Over the years the purpose, nature and content of annual reports have dramatically changed. Increasing numbers of companies are realising that the annual report is not just concerned with producing legal and accounting information. More significantly, companies can use their annual report to communicate corporate messages and to promote influential images and themes to a wide range of leading stakeholders such as shareholders, employees, bankers, customers and the general public. - - This book concentrates on ensuring that the 'corporate message' is communicated to stakeholders in a way that maximises the value of the annual report and outlines how this might best be achieved. It explains the importance not only of the quantitative (accounting) information but also the qualitative content such as the chairman's statement, directors' report, operating and financial review, explanatory notes and so on. Particular recognition is given to the legal, stock exchange and professional accounting requirements as well as to the increasingly important but more discretionary areas of content such as social, environmental and ethical reporting issues. Crucially, the book discusses the importance of electronic communication now that legislation allows companies to deliver information over the internet. - - On a practical level, the book takes the reader through the procedures and processes in actually managing the preparation and production of the report. Both the practical and theoretical aspects of the book are placed in context by the use of relevant extracts taken from 'real-life' annual reports of major organisations. By using these authentic examples the book clearly highlights what works and what doesn't. - - The book will be of interest not just to the wide range of company stakeholders but also of value to financial, media, design and public relation specialists, corporate communication experts, analysts and other managers involved in company secretarial, investor relations and general management functions. - - Ensure that your company's annual reports conform to the highest standards of best practice. Don't waste the opportunity to deliver your message.
