Guidelines are offered to institutional researchers and planning analysts for presenting research results in formats and levels of sophistication that are accessible to top management. Fundamental principles include: (1) know what is needed; (2) know when the information is needed; (3) match format to analytical sophistication and learning preferences of recipients; (4) focus on one or two research questions or conclusions; (5) include a brief summary; (6) eschew obfuscation; (7) use graphics sparingly and correctly; (8) integrate tables and graphics into text or presentation; (9) consider infrequent use of analogies, mnemonics, or other verbal aids; and (10) repeat major findings in subsequent communications when opportune. Also discussed are the use of tables versus graphs; principles of tabular design; principles of graphic design; graph purposes, types, and effectiveness; written reports; and oral presentations. Contains 19 references. (DB)