investigate a business problem examine the alternative solutions and propose the most effective solution using supporting evidence.

A case study analysis requires you to investigate a business problem, examine the alternative solutions, and propose the most effective solution using supporting evidence.

Case Study – Management Principles and the Washington, DC Public Schools: Choosing a Chancellor

Preparing the Case

Before you begin writing, follow these guidelines to help you prepare and understand the case study:

• Read and Examine the Case Thoroughly
  • Take notes, highlight relevant facts, underline key problems.
• Focus Your Analysis
  • Identify two to five key problems.
  • Why do they exist?
  • Who is impacted?
  • Who is responsible for them?
• Uncover Possible Solutions/Changes Needed
  • Review course readings, discussions, outside research, and your experience.
• Select the Best Solution
  • Consider strong supporting evidence, pros, and cons. Is this solution realistic?

Writing the Case Study Analysis

Once you have gathered the necessary information, a draft of your analysis should include these general sections, but these may differ depending on your assignment directions or your specific case study:

• Introduction
  • Identify the key problems and issues in the case study.
  • Formulate and include a thesis statement, summarizing the outcome of your analysis.
• Background
  • Set the scene: background information, relevant facts, and the most important issues.
  • Demonstrate that you have researched the problems in this case study.
• Evaluation of the Case
  • Outline the various pieces of the case study that you are focusing on.
  • Evaluate these pieces by discussing what is working and what is not working.
  • State why these parts of the case study are or are not working well.
• Proposed Solution/Changes
  • Provide specific and realistic solution(s) or changes needed.
  • Explain why this solution was chosen.
  • Support this solution with solid evidence, such as:
    • Concepts from class (text readings, discussions, etc.)
    • Outside research
    • Personal experience (anecdotes)
• Recommendations
  • Determine and discuss specific strategies for accomplishing the proposed solution.
  • If applicable, recommend further action to resolve some of the issues.
  • What should be done and who should do it?