10 ideas and formats for creating a dream annual report

The phrase "annual report" is far from an empty sound for NCOs. Over the last ten years, our sector has been actively popularizing the topic of annual reports. Today we are going to answer an important question - why do we need to create them?

1

Be transparent. Annual reports provide a full overview of the meaningful activities, financial results and social impact achieved over the past year. This helps build trust with stakeholders, including donors, volunteers and the wider community.
2

Fundraising. Annual reports are often used as a fundraising tool, demonstrating the organization's achievements and the need for ongoing support.
3

Engage new audiences. By providing a comprehensive overview of the organization's activities and achievements, annual reports can help engage stakeholders and increase support for the organization.
4

Comply with legal requirements. It is our responsibility to submit annual reports to the relevant authorities. If we prepare a report in one set form, who prevents us from adding material to it and publishing it in another form?
5

Plan ahead. Annual reports can provide valuable information to an organization's leadership to help them make informed decisions about future directions and priorities.
6

Support employees. Annual reports that showcase the accomplishments of the organization and its staff can help boost employee morale and engagement.
7

Promote your brand. Our reports can serve as a platform to promote your brand, communicate your mission and values, and therefore reach a wider audience.

Still think that an annual report is boring and no one will read it? That's not true, today there are different ways to present information. Here are some ideas on how to make this tool work.

1

Digital format. Instead of a traditional printed report, consider creating an interactive format, such as a website or app, that allows users to explore the organization's impact through interactive visualizations of data, video and other multimedia content.
2

Storytelling. Use the annual report as an opportunity to tell the stories of the people and communities impacted by the organization. This can help create a more emotional connection with readers.
3

Social Media Integration. Integrate your annual report with social media by using hashtags, supporting reposts and sharing with others on social media.
4

Infographics and data visualization. Make the most of your organization's data and social impact information by presenting it in a visually appealing way using infographics, charts, and other methods.
5

Collaboration. Consider collaborating with other organizations, companies or individuals to create a collective annual report that demonstrates the impact of multiple organizations working toward a common goal.
6

Video. Create a short film or video that summarizes the organization's impact and achievements over the past year. This can be shared on social media, on the organization's website or at events.
7

Live events. Hold a live event, such as a party or presentation, to showcase the annual report and provide stakeholders with an opportunity to learn more about the organization's work.
8

Augmented Reality. Use augmented reality to bring the annual report to life, allowing readers to explore the organization's impact and achievements in a new and interactive way.
9

Postcards with infographics. Create a set of postcards with infographics that can be shared with your audience and used to promote your annual report.
10

Podcast. Create a series of podcasts detailing the organization's impact and results. This can be used as a supplement to an annual report or as an alternative for those who prefer audio content.

Overall, the key is to think outside the box and find new and engaging ways to present your organization's results and achievements. In this way, the annual report can be a valuable tool to build support and engagement with your donors and wider audiences.