Keys for Writing a Case Study

Quick study guide 16

Writing a case study

There are two different approaches to case studies:

This QuickRef focuses on Type 2: The problem-oriented method

(Always check with your lecturer to confirm which type is required.)

A successful case study analyses a real-life situation where existing problems need to be solved. It should:

• Relate the theory to a practical situation; for example, apply the ideas and knowledge discussed in the coursework to the practical situation at hand in the case study.

• Identify the problems.

• Select the major problems in the case.

• Suggest solutions to these major problems.

• Recommend the best solution to be implemented.

• Detail how this solution should be implemented.

Note: The Case is the “real life” situation

The Case Study is the analysis of this situation

Writing a Case Study

There are usually eight sections in a case study:

Synopsis/Executive Summary

• Outline the purpose of the case study.

• Describe the field of research – this is usually an overview of the company.

• Outline the issues and findings of the case study without the specific details.

• Identify the theory that will be used.

• Here, the reader should be able to get a clear picture of the essential contents of the study.

• Note any assumptions made (you may not have all the information you’d like so some assumptions may be necessary eg: “It has been assumed that…”, “Assuming that it takes half an hour to read one document…”).

Findings

• Identify the problems found in the case. Each analysis of a problem should be supported by facts given in the case together with the relevant theory and course concepts. Here, it is important to search for the underlying problems; for example, cross-cultural conflict may be only a symptom of the underlying problem of inadequate policies and practices within the company.

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