What is a Top Line Report?

Top Line Report, as explained by DJS Research Ltd.

The top line report is usually around two to three pages long and provides a summary of the research undertaken that is specifically target at the more senior members of the organization for which the research was carried out. As such, it uses language that executives will be comfortable with and typically avoids the use of market research jargon. It is a key document within the whole research report as it will be read far more widely then the complete report – to this end it is often bulleted to maintain a concise and succinct analysis of the research.Often clients will also request that the top line report be delivered in both hardcopy and PowerPoint (or other presentation software) formats so as to include it in their presentation to the senior staff. 

If the brief for the project mentioned analysis a key part of the top line report must consider the implications of the report and suggest actions to be taken. The top line report can be seen as similar to an “executive summary” that is often used in management circles.