BLUF (communication)

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This article is about the communication principle. For other BLUF acronyms, see BLUF (disambiguation).

Contents

B.L.U.F. is an acronym (alternatively, initialism) for "Bottom Line Up Front".[1] The term is common in military writing.[2][3] The concept is not exclusive to writing; it can also refer to conversations and interviews.[4]

[edit] Writing

The BLUF model can be routinely seen in executive summaries in reports, subject lines in e-mails, and abstracts in scholarly articles.[5] It applies directly to the format of a résumé to prevent it being too long or wordy.[6] In technical writing, BLUF is considered an essential skill.[7]

[edit] Conversation

In conversation, the BLUF model can be used to keep conversation or answers to questions concise and focused on the immediate topic, in order to help a person talk less (such as in an interview).[4]

[edit] Planning

The BLUF model can also be used in planning and management to insure the purpose of plans are kept in mind, decision-maker support is more readibly attainable, and measurement of impact may more easily and accurately be assessed.[8]

[edit] Medical assessment

BLUF is also key in medical assessment to determine quickly the most pressing problem facing a patient.[9]

[edit] References

  1. ^ Acronym Dictionary: BLUF
  2. ^ Baltimore Sun weblogs (see comments)
  3. ^ Iraqi Schools: Letter from a US Army Major (demonstrates BLUF and indicates its use)
  4. ^ a b Leaders Inc. Interview Preparation Guide
  5. ^ eWrite Online
  6. ^ GI Jobs
  7. ^ "Ten Essential Writing Skills for Help Desk Techies" (slide six)
  8. ^ Keys to Effective Health Promotion (based around a BLUF model)
  9. ^ American Psychological Association's publication Monitor on Psychology, Volume 38, No. 1 January 2007 page 42 "Supplying therapy where it’s needed most" by Christopher Munsey

[edit] External links