California Southern University

Graduate Case Study Format

Introduction

Case learning is a method of applying theory to sound practical real world applications. Each
selected case provides a description of a problem situation taken from a specific company and
documented into the case to address specific International concepts and constructs. The purpose of
each case is to augment the course content with applications that enable the CalSouthern Learner to
apply text materials to a problem and solve that application problem using Learner selected methods
and procedures.

Guidelines

There are no exact answers or perfect solutions to a case problem. Indeed, each
recommended solution and justification can and is usually different comparatively amongst a group
of respondents. The solution must fit the case and must be vigorously supported. The problem
statement, analysis, selected solution, and especially the justification of the selected solution, are all
critical elements in the case method. There are no short cuts to case presentations but a formalized
methodology that enables the case presenter the optimal way to solve the case problem.

Format

Introduction of the case problem is the essential first step and requires a succinct problem
statement and scope problem definition with a concise summary of the critical decision issues to be
addressed in the case presentation. A paragraph of no more that 100 words is adequate.

Analysis of the case problem requires a thorough review of the critical elements of the case
and provides a clear set of facts that on their own merit offers an in depth review of the essential
issues to solve the problem statement. The analysis section should be approximately 300 words.

Solution section of the case study presents the recommended way to solve the problem
statement and addresses the main points outlined in the analysis. The solution section is a
description of the recommended problem application including details as to application and
references specific to solving the problem definition. The solution section must also cite specific text
materials in support of the recommended course(s) of action. No more that 300 words should be
used for the solution statements.

Justification provides the overall reasons why the selected solution recommended course(s)
of action are correct and fit the case problem.

The justification section of the case sells the solution and offers reasons to implement the course of
action and substantiates the methods of solving the problem statement. Justification should be in a
bullet list format and be no more than 200 words.

Summary is a 100 word final set of key points on the problem analysis, solution and
justification of the problem scope.
Recommended Method

1. Read or view the first few paragraphs or statements, then go through the case almost as
fast as you can turn the pages or view the video. Ask what broadly this case is about and
especially what types of information are being given to analyze.
2. Read or view the case very carefully and outline key facts, notes, commentary, and
sequence of events.
3. Note the key problems and issues and restate them.
4. Sort out the relevant considerations for each problem area.
5. Do appropriate qualitative and quantitative analysis – rely on the text to provide proper
analysis techniques where applicable. Use analytical concepts from the text to frame and
define problem sets.
6. Develop a set of recommendations based on analysis that support your findings and
conclusions of the case data.

Maximum Case Method Payoffs

1. PREPARE – the more work you do in analysis the bigger the reward
2. RELATE – especially to your own experiences
3. APPLY – to your company where it fits
4. CLICKS – pay attention to what ideas really come together for you
5. MIX – change the sequence of facts and try various combinations
6. COMPREHEND – your management style and how it fits the solution
7. IMMERSE – yourself into the case to defend your actions logically
8. OWN – the solution and sell your ideas as to why it will work
9. OBJECTIVITY – let someone else read and asses your position

Case Study Summary

 The case system is problem statement, analysis, solution, justification, and summary in
1,000 words with cited references from the text where needed.
 Use the case study format to organize and populate each section.
 Get consensus from others as to your proposed solution.
 Use your own experiences and your company as a testing place.
 Consult with your company or personal experts on topic application.
 Be practical and creative in driving your solution and justification.
 Sell your ideas with logic, evidence, and application examples.
 Logically write your rationale with clear reasons on your solution.

Updated January 2012