Effective Ways to Case Study Analysis

For maximum effectiveness, it is essential that you do all three components. Here are the subcomponents, in order. We will discuss them in more detail shortly. 1. Before the class discussion: 1. Read the reading assignments (if any) 2. Use the Short Cycle Process to familiarize yourself with the case. 3. Use the Long Cycle Process to analyze the case 4. Usually there will be group meetings to discuss your ideas. 5. Write up the case (if required) 2. In the class discussion: 1. Someone will start the discussion, usually at the prompting of the Instructor. 2. Listen carefully and take notes. Pay close attention to assumptions. Insist that they are clearly stated. 3. Take part in the discussion. Your contribution is important, and is likely a part of your evaluation for the course. 3. After the class discussion: 1. Review ASAP after the class. Note what the key concept was and how the case fits into the course.
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Preparing A Case Study

It helps to have a system when sitting down to prepare a case study as the amount of information and issues to be resolved can initially seem quite overwhelming. The following is a good way to start.

Step 1: The Short Cycle Process 1. Quickly read the case. If it is a long case, at this stage you may want to read only the first few and last paragraphs. You should then be able to 2. Answer the following questions: 1. Who is the decision maker in this case, and what is their position and responsibilities? 2. What appears to be the issue (of concern, problem, challenge, or opportunity) and its significance for the organization? 3. Why has the issue arisen and why is the decision maker involved now? 4. When does the decision maker have to decide, resolve, act or dispose of the issue? What is the urgency to the situation? 3. Take a look at the Exhibits to see what numbers have been