Research Methods in Business Management- 2 questions (300 words or more each)

Description of Case Study Analysis

A case study is a written record of the events that occurred at a particular company. The details of the case vary; however, most cases consist of information about the company or project; goals, strategies, and challenges faced; and results and/or recommendations.

You may ask why this is so important for business courses. When you analyze a case, you are learning about real-life problems that occur in businesses. You will have the opportunity to analyze the steps other managers and leaders have taken and put your managerial problem solving skills to work. This is your opportunity to recommend alternatives that were not mentioned in the case based on your reading and experiences.

How to Analyze a Case Study

1. Read the case thoroughly before you try to analyze. You may have to read the case a few times to understand what has occurred. Know the case backwards and forwards before you begin the analysis.

2. Take notes as you are reading.

3. Do not let personal issues and opinions blur your judgment. Look at the issues from on objective point of view as if you were the manager.

4. Be analytical, not descriptive. What this means is to analyze what is going based on the theories in the text and how it applies to the case; not a description or recap of the case.

5. Give yourself enough time to write and proofread!

Tips on Analyzing from a Business Perspective

(Note: Not all tips will apply to every case. Read the questions that are assigned)

1. Analyze the company’s background (founding, structure, and growth).

2. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the company and situation.

3. Examine the competition within the industry.

4. Analyze the strategy from the corporate, business, and task level. The level of analysis will be based on the readings. You may only be able to analyze on one level; however, at the end of the course, you should be able to analyze on all levels.

5. Evaluate the structure, change, hierarchy, reward systems, conflicts, and other issues important to the company.

6. Make recommendations based on the readings and theories that are discussed in the chapters that are pertinent to the case. Each recommendation must be supported.