Guidelines for Writing a Case Study Analysis Preparing the Case A “case” is a description of a situation or problem actually faced by a manager requiring analysis, decision, and planning a course of action. Generally, cases have no right answer. Most cases are ambiguous, presenting many viable alternatives, some of which are better than others. Cases present a lot of information, some of which is more useful than other information. You may not have all of the information you need or want. Managers make decisions based on incomplete information and must make assumptions. The future is uncertain. There are no guarantees. Judgment is risky in case analysis as it is in real life. A case study analysis requires you to investigate a business problem, examine the alternative solutions, and propose the most effective solution using supporting evidence. Before you begin writing, follow these guidelines to help you prepare and understand the case study 1. Read and examine the case thoroughly a. Take notes and highlight relevant facts and key problems 2. Focus your analysis a. Identify two to five strategic issues/key problems b. Why do these strategic issues/key problems exist? c. How do they impact the organization? d. Who is responsible for them? e. Who can be involved for finding solutions? 3. Uncover possible solutions a. Review the course readings and discussions, outside research and don’t forget to draw upon your own experience 4. Select the best solution a. Consider strong supporting evidence, pros, cons – ask yourself “is this solution realistic and why?” Drafting the Case Once you have gathered the supporting information, a draft of your analysis should include these sections: Introduction: Provide clear explanation of key strategic issues  The problems, scope, and seriousness was clearly identified in the discussions.  There was a well-focused diagnosis of strategic issues and key problems that demonstrated a good grasp of the company’s present situation and strategic issues.  Effective Introduction  Did not waste space summarizing information already found in the case. Arguments: Details should be valid, relevant and supportive of the key strategic issues  Logically organized, key points, key arguments, and important criteria for evaluating business strategies were easily  identified  Critical issues and key problems that supported the Case Analysis were identified and clearly analyzed and supported. Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis: Present ideas that are appropriate for the specific industry identified  There was complete data on which to base a thorough analysis 2 Guidelines for Writing a Case Study Analysis 2017  Key change drivers underlying the issues were identified.  Synthesis, analysis, and evaluations were clearly presented and supported in a literate and effective manner. Conclusions and Recommendations: Ensure that your ideas are congruent with your strategic analysis  Specific recommendations and/or plans of action provided.  Specific data or facts were referred to when necessary to support the analysis and conclusions.  Recommendations and conclusions were presented and supported in a literate and effective manner. APA Formatting: Proper organization, professional writing, and logical flow of analysis.  Logically organized, key points, key arguments, and important criteria for evaluating the business logic easily identified.  Key points were supported with a well thought out rationale based on applying specific concepts or analytical frameworks to the data provided in the case.  Proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, 3rd person objective view, professional writing, and syntax. Finalizing the Case After you have composed the first draft of your case study analysis, read through it to check for any gaps or inconsistencies in content or structure: Is your thesis statement clear and direct? Have you provided solid evidence? Is any component from the analysis missing? When you make the necessary revisions, proofread and edit your analysis before submitting the final draft.