Direct and Indirect Organization

1. Direct and Indirect Organization Steve Wood TCCC

2. The Direct Pattern • The direct pattern of organization begins with the main idea or point in the beginning (the first paragraph or section … often even in the first sentence) and then elaborates on that point. This technique is called frontloading. • This pattern is used when the writer assumes that the audience will be positively disposed (or at least neutrally disposed) to the message. • This pattern is used for good news.

3. The Direct Pattern • The advantages of the direct pattern are: • It saves the reader’s time. • It sets a proper frame of mind since the reader does not have to wonder about the point of the message. • It prevents frustration for the reader.

4. The Indirect Pattern • The indirect pattern builds to the main point of the communication, instead of beginning with it. If the message is bad news, some sort of buffer or cushion begins the message. If the message is a persuasive one to an indifferent audience, some sort of icebreaker or attention-getter is used. • This pattern is useful when the intended audience may be indifferent, displeased, disappointed, or even hostile to the message. • Often bad news is delivered via this pattern.

5. The Indirect Pattern • The advantages of the indirect pattern are: • It respects the feelings of the audience. • It helps to ensure a fair hearing of the message. • It helps minimize negative reactions.