Pocatello Case Study

Background

Provide a very brief background description of the situation that is being examined. The purpose of this section is to frame the main theme of the case study.

Example:

This case study examines the response and recovery efforts of various agencies after Hurricane Katrina…

Key Issues

Identify and briefly discuss the key issues and how they relate to the key stakeholders.

Example:

· Inter-agency Coordination….

· Communication…

· Jurisdictional issues…

Analysis

Provide your analysis of each of the key issues described above. Consider the likely root causes. Also, it is important to state the starting point of your analysis. This disclaimer statement includes your values, biases, preconceptions, and prejudices at the onset of your analysis. Not only does this help the reader know where you are coming from (“where you stand is where you sit”), but it also helps you to understand where you are coming from. It will make your analysis more transparent, objective, and robust.

Example:

This case study is being analyzed as part of a class assignment. I have no direct stake in the results or conclusions of this analysis; however, as a victim of Hurricane Katrina, I have formed certain conclusions and opinions about the role of FEMA prior to this analysis. Prior to this analysis, it was my opinion that FEMA….

Issue 1: Initially, emergency response was hampered by the lack of coordination among the first responders. Many of the coordination issues may be attributed to misinformation….

Lessons Learned, Recommendations, and Practical Applications

Identify any lessons learned that can be applied by your agency or organization, or by you as an individual.

Identify any organizational weaknesses or threats that came to light from the readings.

Identify any strengths or opportunities that came to light from the readings.

Consider the costs relative to the benefits of your recommendations.

Discuss any potential barriers to implementation of your recommendations.

Discuss the ramifications that may be associated with your recommendations.

Identify any potential unintended consequences that may result from the implementation of the ideas.

Each one of these areas can be under a separate sub-heading.