Case Study Analysis

Introduction

The case method is an effective avenue for sensitizing students and faculty to the complexities and structures of entrepreneurial business organizations and leadership situations. Business cases are one of the most effective and convenient ways to introduce practice into the classroom, to tap a wide variety of experiences, and involve students actively in analysis and decision-making.

The case approach to strategic analysis is, first and foremost, an exercise in learning by doing. Cases help substitute for on-the-job experience by-

(1) Giving you broader exposure to a variety of industries, organizations, and strategic problems;

(2) Providing a test of how to apply the tools and techniques;

(3) Asking you to come up with practical managerial action plans to deal with the issues at hand

(4) Learn Different Perspectives - Group discussion can help you understand how others might view an issue and what the valid points are.

(5) Real-life Scenarios - Cases allow students to apply classroom principles to real situations.

(6) Solve Ambiguous Problems - Few problems in the real world are as clean cut as those in a textbook. Cases can help you develop skills to analyze the more complex problems you may encounter later.

(7) Sort and Analyze Ambiguous Data - Case studies can help you learn strategies for sorting out seemingly unconnected bits of data and organizing them to understand the problem.

(8) Identify Your Own Assumptions - Learning what your core assumptions in life are can help you understand what emotional reactions you may have to certain issues and help consider whether they are valid or not

Benefits of Case Studies

Many courses use case studies in their curriculum to teach content, involve students with real life data or provide opportunities for students to put themselves in the decision maker's shoes. Some of the primary benefits include:

1. Real World Context - Not only do students see how...