Steps for Analyzing a Problem-Based Case Study

Lecture: Analysis of a PROBLEM-BASED case study (Source: Ch 5 Ellet Text)

STEPS FOR ANALYZING A PROBLEM-BASED

CASE STUDY    -     Source: Chapter 5 in Ellet Textbook

Definition of a Problem:

Business problems are outcomes or results of actions, processes, activities, or of forces that impede a company or a person to achieve goals or stable financial results.

Examples:

A company is facing stronger competition from new companies.

The CEO cannot gain the respect of his/her employees.

The manufacturing and sales departments fail to set common goals.

Analysis of a Problem-Based Case

We will use the “general steps for analyzing a case study" but apply them to a case involving a problem of something.

Recall that the “general steps” are:

STEP 1: SITUATION

STEP 2: QUESTIONS

STEP 3: HYPOTHESIS, EVIDENCE, AND ANALYSIS

STEP 4: ACTION PLAN

STEP 5: RISK & ALTERNATIVES

For an analysis a problem-based case study, we will modify the steps mentioned above in the following way:

STEP 1: PROBLEM DEFINITION

The very first step, before you begin reading and analyzing a case study of this type, is to identify the main problem that you will be analyzing and solving. You do this by first reading the title, subtitle, graphs, charts, first paragraph, middle paragraphs, and the conclusion part.

Write down your understanding about:

(a) the main characters of the case

(b) where and when does it take place?

(c) the problem that you will be analyzing. Choose one or two problems…KEEP IT SIMPLE!

STEP 2: PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS

As you begin reading the case, but briefly, ask yourself questions about the main causes of the problem and write them in a list.

STEP 3: CAUSE-EFFECT ANALYSIS

After you have a list of causes of the problem, analyze them using business theories and concepts (finance, accounting, strategic management, marketing, economics, human resources, etc).