Business Case Analysis
Developments in Business Simulation and Experiential Learning, Volume 31, 2004
THE CASE BRIEF A Model for Case Analysis, Writing and Discussion
John Washbush University of Wisconsin-Whitewater washbusj@uww.edu
ABSTRACT
The session addresses a common problem in undergraduate case discussion and writing—the tendency for students to reiterate lengthy lists and discussions of facts of the case without effectively identifying key facts while failing to adequately addressing their implications. The case brief, using the basic problemsolving model, provides a carefully structured approach for the student to more precisely define key facts, identify valid strategic problems, and more pointedly define, discuss and recommend relevant courses of action. In addition to describing the model used in the brief, the session will interactively demonstrate an exploration of a short case using the case brief format. Each of you will write a case brief. It should not exceed five pages (typed, singlespaced). The brief is to conform to this format: Diagnosis (key facts) Bullets Statement of the problem Sentence Identification of alternatives Bullets Recommendation and rationale Paragraph Diagnosis is defined as a process of defining and using key case data. Analogous to the process of medical diagnosis, the objective is to determine what essential concerns are suggested by stating and analyzing these data. The Statement of the Problem requires the student to define, not what is wrong, but what is or are the significant strategic concern(s) that management must resolve. Please CAREFULLY observe these points in preparing case briefs: I. Discuss the following points in the Diagnosis section consistent with the information provided in the case: a. Type of business b. Divisions (if applicable) c. Markets and products d. Current mission and strategy e. Industry analysis Market share data on companies in the industry (1) Competitive dynamics 5 Forces Model of Competition analysis
THE CASE BRIEF A Model for Case Analysis, Writing and Discussion
John Washbush University of Wisconsin-Whitewater washbusj@uww.edu
ABSTRACT
The session addresses a common problem in undergraduate case discussion and writing—the tendency for students to reiterate lengthy lists and discussions of facts of the case without effectively identifying key facts while failing to adequately addressing their implications. The case brief, using the basic problemsolving model, provides a carefully structured approach for the student to more precisely define key facts, identify valid strategic problems, and more pointedly define, discuss and recommend relevant courses of action. In addition to describing the model used in the brief, the session will interactively demonstrate an exploration of a short case using the case brief format. Each of you will write a case brief. It should not exceed five pages (typed, singlespaced). The brief is to conform to this format: Diagnosis (key facts) Bullets Statement of the problem Sentence Identification of alternatives Bullets Recommendation and rationale Paragraph Diagnosis is defined as a process of defining and using key case data. Analogous to the process of medical diagnosis, the objective is to determine what essential concerns are suggested by stating and analyzing these data. The Statement of the Problem requires the student to define, not what is wrong, but what is or are the significant strategic concern(s) that management must resolve. Please CAREFULLY observe these points in preparing case briefs: I. Discuss the following points in the Diagnosis section consistent with the information provided in the case: a. Type of business b. Divisions (if applicable) c. Markets and products d. Current mission and strategy e. Industry analysis Market share data on companies in the industry (1) Competitive dynamics 5 Forces Model of Competition analysis