STUDENT INFO

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A SUGGESTED METHODOLOGY FOR CASE ANALYSIS  Raj Kumar Singh
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The process of analyzing and discussing actual/hypothetical cases is a valuable adjunct to traditional methods of Management education. Case analysis tests the ability of the students to apply the principles, theories and practices studied in the various Management Courses.

It should be noted that no single methodology for handling cases is ideal. Following is a suggested methodology.

Your first effort should be to read the assigned carefully enough to remember many of the details presented in it. You may have to read the case twice or more. After reading the case with great care it is important to identify the major problem/s or question/s involved.


Step 1 : Isolate the Salient Problem

Identifying exactly what problem you want to attack is one of the most demanding tasks in case analysis. The problem should be significant in terms of achieving the organization’s objectives. Problems are not easily identified. Distinguish between a problem and symptoms of the problem.

If you see multiple problems in the case situation, this is not at all unusual. Generally, it is recommended that you rank the problems in order and solve the most critical one first. Presumably, the other problems will be solved in order, but this suggested model considers one problem at a time.

If you have chosen your major problem properly, you will be able to state it succinctly-probably in three to five sentences at the most.


Step 2 : Accumulate and Organize Relevant Facts

Whether you are preparing a written analysis or just getting ready for class discussion of the case, facts and assumptions relevant to the problem you propose to solve should be accumulated gradually. This process may involve re-classifying information, searching for data outside the case, and analyzing data by both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The validity of information in the case, especially opinions, should always be questioned. Here, an in real-life, not all information is equally reliable ore equally relevant.

Your assumptions are bound t enter the analysis of complex cases. Decisions are made with less than perfect information. In fact, real executives have much less complete information than most students realize. So make your assumptions. But, be sure that you recognize them as mere assumptions and not facts and that they are reasonable under the case circumstances.

While doing a written case analysis, include company assessment-a short section which recognizes the most critical facts and assumptions to show the organization’s existing position with respect to finances, management capabilities, market position, or other variables. Such a section should not merely restate the facts; rather it should iterpret case material and show its implications. The section then becomes a logical transition between the problem statement and the listing of alternatives.


Step 3 : Consider Alternative Solutions

If you have chosen your major problems properly, there should be at least two viable alternative solutions. Each alternative should be conceivably possible. Another important qualification for the alternatives is that they be mutually  exclusive.

For most cases, a very effective way to start a list of alternatives is to select one at each extreme of viability. These extreme alternatives then become the limits for a spectrum, with one to five alternatives arrayed between them. The spectrum may be based on cost, risk, size, time, markets, or some variable critical to the case. Obviously, a considerable amount of judgement is involved in listing alternatives. The process also involves creativity; selecting alternatives to the problems that arise is one of the most creative of all management activities.

Once the alternatives have been listed, begin enumerating the advantages and the disadvantages of each. These pro and cons will form the basis for choosing one of your alternatives over the others. If possible, assign weights, probabilities and/or monetary values to each alternative.


Step 4 : Recommend A Solution to the Problem

Choose one alternative over all of your others and explain the basis for your choice. If the analysis is written, there is little reason to repeat all of the advantages of the alternative chosen or all of the disadvantages of the alternatives rejected, but it is helpful to inform/state which variables you weighted most heavily in making the choice and why.


Step 5 : Implement Your Decision

Finally, you are expected to explain the steps, the resources that will be employed, and other details of carrying out your recommended solution to the problem. A sound decision, badly executed, may be worse than a well-implemented mediocre decision. In effect, the implementation plan proves that your solution is both possible and practical.

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