Definition

• The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English defines "mock-up" as "a model or replica of a machine or structure, used for instructional or experimental purposes." In the case of a report, this means a mock-up is a model of the report's structure for presentation and discussion purposes. In a way, a mock-up report is a prototype of the final product.
  
  

Elements

• A mock-up report is composed of the same organizational elements as the draft or final report, but it does not contain any real data. It should have the same structure, titles and subtitles, sections as well as layout of images, logos and other design elements. Only when the mock-up report is approved are the correct information and real data included. Mock-up reports should also indicate the length for each section to give the client a view of the product that is as close as possible to the final result.
  
  

Uses

• A mock-up report is most often used to receive feedback and get approval from your client. It can also allow for testing with the primary user of the final product. Consultants, designers, art directors, engineers or technical specialists can give their clients a clear picture of the final report with a mock-up. It also serves as a tool to reaffirm that the information contained will be correct, and that your client agrees with the proposed layout. Creating mock-up reports lets you focus on mastering the report format rather than dwell on the data.
  
  

Benefits

• A mock-up report gives your clients a clear picture of the final product, so you know before presenting the results that it will be done in a format agreed to and expected by your clients. This can help you manage your client's expectations and improve your chance for rapid approval of the final report.