What type of reports are exceptionally useful for preparing impact studies?

Ad hoc reports are particularly valuable for preparing impact studies because they are tailored to address specific questions or needs arising from unique situations or events. These reports allow for in-depth analysis of data that is relevant to the study’s focus, enabling researchers and decision-makers to uncover insights that may not be apparent in routine reporting. By compiling information on demand, ad hoc reports facilitate the examination of various scenarios, trends, and outcomes, which are essential for measuring the impact of decisions or changes within an organization.

Utilization reports and exception reports, while beneficial in their respective areas, do not provide the same level of flexibility or specificity that ad hoc reports do. Utilization reports typically summarize how resources are used, which may not directly contribute to understanding the broader impacts of particular decisions. Exception reports focus on deviations from expected norms or standards, meaning they are primarily reactive and may not cover the comprehensive data necessary for an impact study. Data summary reports condense information into a general overview, which could lack the detailed analysis or customized focus needed for specific impact inquiries. Thus, ad hoc reports stand out as the most suitable option for this purpose.