General Guidelines for Case Analysis

Students will be expected to prepare an analysis that will identify the critical challenge or problem in the organization, discuss the underlying root causes of the problem, prepare criteria against which to weigh alternative solutions, and present the recommendations and implementation plan. It is expected that students will communicate any relevant conceptual links in this analysis. An executive summary will also be submitted $($this page is not numbered$).$ The various components of the case format, as well as the weight given to each section are below. The paper is to be about $15$ pages maximum $($double spaced, $12-$point font, $1$ margins$).$

Written Case Format

REQUIRED SECTIONS GUIDELINES

I.

$10\%$ Case Summary

$($maximum $1$ page double spaced. Does not count as part of $-$page limit$)$ one page in length, no typos

$$ briefly identify major problem$($s$)$ facing the key person$($s$)$

$$ summarise recommended plan of action

Your case summary is the key $$selling feature$$ for your report $$busy executives may not read any further than the summary. Write it last. Emphasise clarity, brevity and persuasiveness.

II$.$

$10\%$ Statement of the Problem

$(3-5$ sentences$)$ state the problem$($s$)$ facing the key person$($s$)$

$$ conclude with the decision facing the key person$($s$)$

Imagine you have the undivided attention of the decision$-$maker as you wait for an elevator. You have only one minute to convince him or her you have a handle on this situation. Phrase the problem in the most succinct and compelling way possible.

III.

$25\%$ Analysis of the causes of the problem

$(4-5$ pages$)$

$$ provide a detailed analysis of the causes of the problems above, using theories and models from the text and readings

$$ do not summarise or repeat the case. Assume the reader is completely familiar with the case

$$ support conclusions and$/$or assumptions with reference to the text, readings or key points in the case

Theoretical material should link theory to case issues and should convince the decision$-$maker of the validity of your analysis.

IV$.$

$10\%$ Decision criteria and alternative solutions

$(3-4$ pages$)$

$$ identify criteria against which you will evaluate solutions

$$ include two or three alternate solutions

$$ evaluate all solutions against identified criteria

Decision criteria should reflect the top priorities of the organisation in this particular case $($e$.$g$,$ improve quality, boost productivity, cost less than $x; can be implemented in y months$).$

V$.$

$35\%$ Recommended solution, implementation and justification

$($approximately $3$ pages$)$

$$ solution and implementation should fit with problems and criteria identified above

$$ identify what should be done, when, how and by whom, to implement your recommended solution

$$ include a statement of downside risk and a contingency plan to address potential difficulties

Implementation should be detailed and realistic. Then, close on a strong note. State briefly and convincingly the best justification for your recommended course of action.

VI$.$

$10\%$ Format $$ type double$-$spaced, in $12-$point font, with $1$ margins all around

$$ use headings and bullet points to maximise clarity

$$ use additional $3$ pages for exhibits

A business report like a resum$$ should contain NO mistakes of grammar, spelling or punctuation. Anything less than professional quality demonstrates lack of attention to detail.