Use and Advantage of the Case Study Method

CASE  STUDY  GUIDE

Researched and adapted by Prof Teo C. Macabiog

Use and Advantage of the Case Study Method

        This method is most effectively used to develop analytical and decision - making skills. The case study method narrows the gap between theory and practice. It make learning more meaningful and relative through active and direct involvement of the learner. It encourages a multi-dimensional or holistic approach to problem situations. It entertains as it instructs.

Case Study

         Case study is the study of a particular situation or case or a problem in a given scenario thoroughly after weighing the pros and cons, taking a practically feasible decision in the best interests for effective implementation. Case study is a simulation of a management situation that helps the management graduates to react in a real situation and helps them by providing right direction towards right decision making and problem solving.

What is a case?

        A case is the description of a specific incident or a group of related events focused on a precise problem or situation. It is a "close-up" portrayal of how people who were concerned acted under the situation. It can be a real situation that actually happened just as described, or portions have been disguised for reasons of privacy. Usually the case can be brief or extensive running from 1 to 30 pages. As such there is no specific rule that the content should be limited or extended up to certain levels. The events reported in a case are distinguishable from other events to such a degree that the problem has relatively clear terminal points and can be analyzed apart from other activities of the people concerned. The attention of the readers is focused on a significant decision or a series of related decisions.

Case Analysis

        A case analysis is the process of breaking down a case into rational, easily understood parts which can be examined separately. It may be done in solitude, in small groups or in a plenary session of the class. The method of analysis outlined below is intended as a guide.

Case analysis steps:

1. List and classify the facts of the case.

        Understand the context of the case. Understanding the background issues helps to understand the context of the case. Comprehend the meanings of the facts both in themselves and in their relationships. Ask and answer the following questions as you read the case: What background facts influence the current problem/problems? What are the constraints or obstacles of the situation?

2. Identify and state the critical management problem of the organization. State the problem area. State the case analysis objective which is logically related to the problem.

        What and where is the problem? Attend to the primary problem. Sort the major problem from the minor problems. Identify the evidence from the case which relates to each problem. Identify underlying causes of the problems. What is your objective in the case study.

3. Generate at least three (3) alternative courses of action to solve the problem. Evaluate each alternative.

        List appropriate courses of action to attain the objective and solve the problem. The alternative should NOT CREATE ANOTHER PROBLEM. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative.

        Screen and short list alternatives. Using the SFA screening criteria is suggested.

a) Suitability – is a criterion used to test if the said ACA would actually solve the problem.

b) Feasibility – is a criterion used to determine a particular ACA that can be implemented with the available resources.

c) Acceptability – is a criterion used to establish a relation if the said ACA would be worth the cost or risk involved in its implementation.

        Evaluate further the strengths of the shortlisted ACAs in terms of quality, responsiveness, timeliness, ethics, risk in relation to gain, availability of organizational resources or repercussion on the human factor and environment. Generally, a good course of action contributes to attainment of organizational goals.

4. Select the best course of action (from the 3 alternatives).