HOW TO ANALYZE A 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