A briefing note is a concise document designed to inform decision-makers about a specific issue or topic. Typically, it is 1-2 pages long and includes key pieces of information, often presented in bullet points1. Here are the main components of a briefing note:

Briefing note

Subject: What is this note about
Prepared by: Who this note from?
Date:
Submitted to:

Issue

Enter a brief statment describing the key issue being brought forward for decision.

Background

Provide a history of the issue, an overview of potential decisions that could be made, and potential outcomes of each of the options.

Options

Final options(s) of the person/group preparing the briefing note with supporting statement for the option(s) i.e. why this option is optimal over others.

Recommendations

List all members who participated in the decision making including their roles. Identify the Chairperson and Recorder.