How To Write The Case Study: There Are Two Different ✓ Solved

How to write the case study There are two different

There are two different approaches to case studies: Type 1: The Analytical Approach examines the case study to understand what has happened and why without identifying problems or suggesting solutions. Type 2: The Problem-Oriented Method analyzes the case to identify major problems and suggest solutions. This Quickref focuses on Type 2: The Problem-Oriented Method.

A successful case study analyzes a real-life situation where existing problems need to be solved.

It should:

  • Relate theory to a practical situation, applying ideas and knowledge discussed in coursework to 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.

The case is the “real life” situation; the case study is the analysis of this situation.

There are usually eight sections in a case study:

1. Synopsis/Executive Summary

  • Outline the purpose of the case study.
  • Describe the field of research, usually an overview of the company.
  • Outline the issues and findings of the case study without specific details.
  • Identify the theory that will be used.
  • The reader should get a clear picture of the essential contents of the study.
  • Note any assumptions made.

2. Findings

Identify the problems found in the case, supported by facts and relevant theory. Look for underlying problems, such as cross-cultural conflict being a symptom of inadequate policies.

3. Discussion

Summarize major problems and identify alternative solutions, evaluating their advantages and disadvantages.

4. Conclusion

Sum up the main points from findings and discussion.

5. Recommendations

Choose which alternative solutions should be adopted and justify your choice, integrating theory and coursework.

6. Implementation

Explain what should be done, by whom, and by when, including an estimate of costs if appropriate.

7. References

Ensure all references are cited correctly.

8. Appendices (if any)

Note any original data relevant to the study.

Paper For Above Instructions

This case study will analyze a hypothetical company, ABC Corp, which has been facing significant operational challenges due to rapid growth and lack of defined processes. The purpose of this case study is to identify the major problems that ABC Corp is facing, evaluate possible solutions, and recommend the most effective course of action to address these issues while integrating relevant theories.

Synopsis/Executive Summary

ABC Corp operates in the technology sector and has seen exponential growth in the past two years. However, this rapid expansion has resulted in operational inefficiencies, employee dissatisfaction, and communication breakdowns among departments. This case study aims to examine these challenges, grounding the analysis in organizational behavior theories that relate to change management. Assumptions made include the belief that communication failures stem from poor leadership and inadequate training programs.

Findings

The first major issue identified at ABC Corp is the lack of effective communication channels. Employees reported feeling unheard and uninformed about company changes, which adversely affected morale. This phenomenon aligns with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, particularly the need for belongingness and esteem, which are crucial for employee satisfaction (Maslow, 1943).

The second issue is the inefficiency in project management, leading to delays and missed deadlines. A review of project timelines indicated a correlation between the absence of standardized operating procedures and the increased frequency of project overruns (Kerzner, 2017).

Discussion

The major issues facing ABC Corp are categorized into communication breakdowns and ineffective project management. Possible solutions for enhancing communication could include implementing a structured feedback loop through regular meetings and the use of collaborative software tools. For project management, adopting Agile methodologies may provide flexibility and improve project turnaround times.

The advantages of improving communication might lead to a more cohesive workplace environment, fostering teamwork. However, it could require initial investments in training and technology. On the other hand, adopting Agile practices could streamline operations but requires a cultural shift that may face resistance from traditional team members.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that ABC Corp's organizational structure contributes significantly to its operational challenges. Addressing communication and project management issues is essential for fostering a conducive work environment and enhancing overall efficiency.

Recommendations

It is recommended that ABC Corp adopt a dual approach: first, enhance communication through regular team training sessions focused on effective dialogue and feedback mechanisms; second, implement Agile project management practices. This combined strategy is expected to resolve the issues identified while promoting a culture of collaboration.

Implementation

The communication strategy should be executed by the HR department within the next quarter, focusing on training sessions and policy formulation. Simultaneously, the project management team should pilot Agile methods in one department, assessing the results after six months, with cost implications estimated to be minimal as these adaptations utilize existing resources.

References

  • Kerzner, H. (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. Wiley.
  • Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human Motivation. Psychological Review.
  • Robinson, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2018). Organizational Behavior. Pearson.
  • Kotter, J. P. (1996). Leading Change. Harvard Business Review Press.
  • Grant, R. M. (2019). Contemporary Strategy Analysis. Wiley.
  • Daft, R. L. (2016). Organization Theory and Design. Cengage Learning.
  • Schermerhorn, J. R. (2013). Management. Wiley.
  • Mintzberg, H. (2009). Managing. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
  • Hayes, J. (2018). The Theory and Practice of Change Management. Palgrave.
  • Barney, J. B. (2019). Gaining and Sustaining Competitive Advantage. Pearson.

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