This document provides a framework for communicating bad news by first stating the situation clearly, then explaining how it happened and alternatives considered, recommending a course of action, reaffirming goals for the future, and summarizing key points to improve confidence or morale.

1. Communicating Bad News

2. Our Situation
• State the bad news
• Be clear, don’t try to obscure the situation

3. How did this Happen?
• Any relevant history, facts, or strategies
• Original assumptions that are no longer valid

4. Alternatives Considered
• Present alternative courses of action
• Discuss pros/cons of each

5. Recommendation or Decision
• State the recommended course of action or decision
• Discuss how recommendation addresses the problem
• Discuss how plan will address hardships resulting
from action

6. Our Vision for the Future
• Reaffirm your goals
• Set expectations for the future
• Set a time for expected results

7. Summary
• Key Points to remember that will give audience
confidence or improve morale