Management Report & Briefing (MRB)

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WHAT IS THE MRB?
Does the job require the ability to analyze information related to program operations and write clear, concise reports with sound recommendations? The MRB places candidates in a scenario that is realistic and appropriate for any job that requires analysis and report writing skills. Candidates must evaluate the information given, which includes memos and letters, program goals and methods used to evaluate results, data that reflects on program operations and goal attainment, as well as information pertaining to management methods and practices. The ability to analyze information and write effective reports is often in short supply in jobs where it is of paramount importance. Having a good vocabulary, being effective in oral expression, and similar abilities are no guarantee that the individual has an analytical bent coupled with effective written communication skills. Effective reports reflect the ability to:

>>>>• Identify problems and possible causes of problems
>>>>• Develop alternative solutions to problems and make logical decisions
>>>>• Express ideas in good grammatical form with smooth transitions
>>>>• Present ideas and facts in a clear, organized manner
>>>>• Present ideas in a way that captures the attention of the listener

POSITIONS USED FOR?
The MRB is appropriate for a variety of jobs, ranging from entry professional staff positions to supervisory or management jobs. It may be used for any position that requires the ability to analyze program goals in relation to program data and operational results. Some job examples are given below. There are private and public sector forms of the test.

MRB USED FOR:
>>>• Any Supervisory or management positions
>>>• Administrative Analyst
>>>• Human Resources Specialist
>>>• Program Analyst
>>>• Equal Employment Opportunity Analyst
>>>• Executive or Administrative Assistant

TEST FORMAT
The MRB provides information on the management and goal attainment of a hypothetical program (or department). Assessees are given two hours to evaluate the information and write a report with recommendations. Assessees must be able to evaluate a variety of information, including "before and after" data, budget allocations, and statements contained in various memos and letters to identify problems and reach sound conclusions. The exercise may include an optional oral report component. If used, assessees must provide a 6-8 minute oral briefing for a three member panel of role players, who assume the role of a management committee that must evaluate the assessee's recommendations. If this optional exercise feature is selected, the role players are given complete instructions on their responsibilities as well as questions to ask at the end of the assessee's briefing.

SCORING & REPORTING OF RESULTS
MPS does all of the scoring for you. Results are reported in the form of a rank-ordered list of the candidates. In addition, MPS uses a behavioral checklist approach to provide performance feedback for candidates on each of the factors measured. Behavioral checklists include both positive and negative behavioral descriptors, and are designed to assist assessees in identifying strengths, weaknesses, and developmental needs.

VIDEOTAPING THE ORAL REPORT
All necessary instructions and diagrams to properly set up and videotape the optional oral component are supplied. All that is needed is a standard video camera and 1/2" VHS videotaping system. No camera work is required.

SOME MRB ISSUES
>>>• Analytical Ability: Evaluation of data and claims by others
>>>• Inter-relationships: Identifying related issues
>>>• Data Analysis: Noting trends and implications
>>>• Goal Attainment: Logical analysis of results relative to goals
>>>• Developing Alternatives: Supporting conclusions with facts.