HOW TO ANALYZEA CASE STUDY

So What is a Case Study analysis?

“separation into parts” “examination of a thing to determine

its parts or elements” “…..with a view toward prescription” Analytical processes used in

medicine, auto repair, business turn around

More than simple description

Case Study Key Phrases

Describes an actual situation in narrative form

Requires a decision of a problem or opportunity

It’s not a problem necessarily with a “unique” solution

There are different alternatives

Case Study Key Phrases Describes an actual situation in

narrative form Requires a decision of a problem or

opportunities It’s not a problem with a “unique”

solution There are different alternatives Critical thinking/Innovation key

Steps in Doing Case Analyses

1. Identify dimension of problem or opportunity

2. What caused problem/opportunity to exist?

3. Possible solutions to the problem

4. What is the “best” solution and why?

Frame prescription options

Diagnose

Describe

Prescribe

How Will Case Analysis Work?

Seven Cases will be Assigned This Semester (plus a trial run with Nest Fresh Eggs)

Encourage multiple readings of each case over a series of days

Take lots of notes Look at other resources where

possible

Preliminary Memo 1-1 ½ pages long Typically in bullet fashion with short comments Follows Five Step Case Study Process

Problem or Opportunity Causes of problem/opportunity/factors-trends Alternative Solutions “Best” Solution and why? Plan of Implementation

Encourage preliminary observations on competition, financial analysis, SWOT, etc. – describe, diagnose, frame and prescribe

Must be your own work for individual memos Grading is based on application of unit concepts

In-Class Discussion Class-led discussion of the case following

the five step order We measure participation plus quality of

participation Preliminary memos are due at the

beginning of class – come prepared with additional notes – solution ideas, pros and cons of various alternatives

Take notes on the discussion – your final memo should reflect the discussion points of the day.

Final Memo (for Unit Cases) A final memo is prepared for the case based on

Your preliminary analysis The in-class discussion from the day of the case

A maximum 5 page final memo – one from each group only - is submitted shortly following the discussion day – see syllabus for due dates

11 pt font, double spaced, 1” margin Follow the 5 step format for evaluating each

case Grading is based on application of unit

concepts