CASE ANALYSIS: In analyzing the case study, use the following format:

Step 1 - What are the facts?

This step involves listing the major "facts" presented by the case The purpose is 10 systematically summarize the facts.

Note. This step should not constitute the majority of the paper. List only the facts that are most relevant to your analysis.

Step 2 - What problem exists, and why?

Determine what you believe to be the one root problem and state it clearly, in one sentence.

The obvious problem or the problem stated by the characters in the case is often not a real problem or not the most basic problem.

The second part of this step is to attempt to analyze why the problem exists. This can often lead you to the recogni¬tion of more basic problems. For example: the direct problem of insufficient output, when analyzed. might be due to a lack of coordination between two departments. thus suggesting that a poor departmental relation is a more basic problem.

Also note the importance of seeking multiple causes for the problem and not just a single cause

Step 3 - What additional information is needed to analyze this case adequately? The case may not give all the information needed to make a sound decision. Often we can get needed additional data from common refer¬ences Sometimes. however. a decision may have to be made without such data But. a thorough analysis at least includes recognizing what one would do in a real situation and explicitly stating any assumptions you are making about such data.

Step 4 - What are possible solutions to the problem?

It is easy to settle for one or two solutions. Rather, you should adopt a 'brain-storming" approach, which focuses on thinking up a number of possibilities, with little concern if some are -far out.' The next step will focus on evaluating your alternatives, but first seek to be creative in thinking up a number of different possible solutions

Step 5 - What are the consequences of each alternative?

The word 'consequences" is intended to be neutral and includes both positive as well as negative results Too of¬ten we settle for just one or the other whereas most decisions have both "costs and benefits " Identifying "costs" can also suggest ways to modify an alternative so as to reduce the costs

Also seek more than one consequence. Too often we settle for only the one or two obvious consequences

Step 6 - What decision should be made or what solution should be chosen and what is the rationale for it?

Here we come to the point of choice. Which alternative do you choose. and why2 The "why" part is important be¬cause it involves putting together a systematic rationale for your choice and should often include anticipating and rebutting counter arguments. It should also explicitly state assumptions you are making

Step 7 - What general ideas can be drawn from this case that might have application with your customer you and your group are consulting?

A case may often give emphasis to a theoretical concept, and this would be worth noting It may add a further in¬sight to the meaning or limitation of some theoretical concept It may raise issues that warrant further thought. It may directly suggest new concepts or hypotheses worth applying in the future.