Why Amazon's "Six Page Memo" Is the Optimal Format for Briefing Boards and Leadership Teams

Effective communication is key to success.

Whether you're presenting a new idea, reporting on a project's progress, or seeking approval for a strategic decision, how you convey information matters immensely.

Amazon, one of the world's most successful companies, has a unique and highly efficient method for briefing their Boards and Leadership teams - the "Six Page Memo." In this blog post, I’ll explore why this format has become a gold standard for concise and impactful communication.

1. Clarity and Brevity

Amazon's "Six Page Memo" forces authors to distil their thoughts into a concise format. In a world filled with information overload, a shorter document allows readers to grasp the main points quickly. This format encourages writers to cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters. By limiting the document's length, authors are compelled to communicate only the most critical information, eliminating superfluous details.

2. Narrative Structure

The Memo is designed to tell a compelling story. It starts with a narrative that captures the reader's attention, sets the context, and outlines the problem or opportunity at hand. This storytelling approach engages the audience emotionally and intellectually, making it easier for them to connect with the material and understand its significance.

3. Decision-Centric

Unlike traditional lengthy reports filled with data and analysis, the Amazon memo format is decision-centric. It requires the author to begin with a specific call to action or a clear decision point. This approach streamlines the decision-making process and ensures that the leadership team can swiftly make informed choices based on the presented information.

4. Focused Discussion

Each section of the memo is designed to focus on a specific aspect of the proposal or problem. This structured approach enables readers to dissect the information methodically, understand the nuances, and ask relevant questions. It also promotes discussion around the key issues, ensuring that every aspect of the proposal is thoroughly examined.

5. Encouraging Ownership

The six-page format encourages authors to take ownership of their ideas and recommendations. By presenting a succinct and well-structured argument, authors are more likely to stand behind their proposals and be accountable for their success or failure. This format promotes a culture of responsibility and ownership within the organisation.

6. Efficient Use of Time

Time is precious and lengthy presentations and reports can be inefficient. Amazon's "Six Page Memo" respects the time of its leaders by delivering the essential information efficiently. This allows for more productive meetings and quicker decision-making processes.

CONCLUSION
Amazon's "Six Page Memo" is an optimal format for briefing Boards and Leadership teams due to its clarity, brevity, narrative structure, decision-centric approach, focused discussion, encouragement of ownership, and efficient use of time. Adopting this format in your organisation can lead to more effective communication, streamlined decision-making processes, and ultimately, better outcomes for your business. So, the next time you're preparing a briefing for your leadership team, consider condensing your ideas into a concise and impactful memo, just like Amazon does.