BLUF (communication)

B.L.U.F. is an acronym (alternatively, initialism) for "Bottom Line Up Front". [http://acronyms.thefreedictionary.com/BLUF Acronym Dictionary: BLUF] ] The term is common in military writing. [http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/mcintyre/blog/2007/08/just_throw_the_ball_already.html Baltimore Sun weblogs (see comments)] ] [http://www.iraqischools.com/letters.asp?ltr=1 Iraqi Schools: Letter from a US Army Major (demonstrates BLUF and indicates its use)] ] The concept is not exclusive to writing; it can also refer to conversations and interviews. [http://www.leadersinc.com/default2.asp?active_page_id=920 Leaders Inc. Interview Preparation Guide] ]

Writing

The BLUF model can be routinely seen in executive summaries in reports, subject lines in e-mails, and abstracts in scholarly articles. [http://www.ewriteonline.com/ht/display/ArticleDetails/i/1439/pid/1016 eWrite Online] ] It applies directly to the format of a résumé to prevent it being too long or wordy. [http://www.gijobs.net/magazine.cfm?issueId=46&id=563 GI Jobs] ] In technical writing, BLUF is considered an essential skill. [http://www.nercomp.org/data/media/E-WRITE%20Presentation%20-%20Writing%20Skills%20for%20Technical%20Support%20Professionals%209-26-05.ppt#330,6 "Ten Essential Writing Skills for Help Desk Techies" (slide six)] ]

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).

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. [http://chppm-www.apgea.army.mil/dhpw/Population/Documents/12BLUF_HealthPromotionKey.pdf Keys to Effective Health Promotion (based around a BLUF model)] ]

Medical assessment

BLUF is also key in medical assessment to determine quickly the most pressing problem facing a patient. [http://www.apa.org/monitor/jan07/therapy.html 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] ]

References

External links

* [http://www.google.com/search?q=BLUF+bottom+line+up+front BLUF at Google.com]