Actual From Abstract

A colleague’s daughter drew this. 

At first glance, I wasn’t sure what I was looking at. 

Do you see what it is?

At first, I was thinking something a little alien perhaps. 

But there it is right in front of you.

It’s the head, ears, nose, and tusks of an elephant. 

I really like the abstractness of this art. 

All from simple circles, and voila you have an elephant. 

Look carefully at what you think you see, and let your mind put the whole picture together. 

That’s how you come to the actual from the abstract! 😉

(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)

When You Need To BLUF

Most professional (and even personal) communications should start with…

________________________

BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front).

This means that you start with the ending–in mind, on paper, verbally, and in digital format. 

You provide the conclusion and/or recommendations right up front.

Rather than first wadding through all the details–context, analysis, considerations, assumptions, risks, etc. 

Let the reader know right away what it is you want. 

Generally, this is different than an abstract or summary that provides a synopsis and leading evidence for the argument put forward. 

Tell me what I need to know and get right to the point! 😉

(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)