in-basket
Where memos land
An in-basket is a tray or container on a desk where incoming documents, mail, and tasks awaiting attention are placed.
The term extends to exercises used in hiring and training, where candidates process a simulated pile of memos, messages, and problems: The assessment center included an in-basket exercise.
Also spelled in-box or inbox in digital contexts.
Message receiving folder
- pendingAwaiting resolution or decision
- trayShallow portable platform
- prioritiesMost important things
- tasksUnits of work
paperwork · documents · memos · correspondence · assignments · to-do · sorting · processing
Imitation of real processes
- trainingDeveloping abilities through practice
- assessmentFormal evaluation of worth
- decision-makingProcess of choosing actions
- scenariosImagined sequences of events
role-play · management · evaluation · prioritization · judgment · problem-solving · hiring · leadership
inbox
Message receiving folder
- pendingAwaiting resolution or decision
- trayShallow portable platform
- prioritiesMost important things
tasks · paperwork · documents · memos · correspondence · assignments · to-do · sorting · processing · delegation
simulation
Imitation of real processes
- trainingDeveloping abilities through practice
- assessmentFormal evaluation of worth
- decision-makingProcess of choosing actions
scenarios · role-play · management · evaluation · prioritization · judgment · problem-solving · hiring · leadership · competency
inbound
Traveling toward a destination
play · throw-in · possession · turnover · outlet · court · referee · whistle · violation
in-basketout-basket
Tray for finished paperwork
outbox · out-tray · outgoing mail · sent folder · archive
basket, baskets, basketful, basketry, basketwork, out-basket