Reference no: EM132506475

Case Method:

• Cases provide a context for application of analytic concepts, and illustrate the issues that arise in the complex decision-making situations that typically face top-management. As in real business problems, there are no "right'' answer for case studies that we will examine in the course, although there are correct and incorrect ways to analyze or approach them. The challenge for the student is to (1) examine the facts and the data contained in the case, (2) employ the analytical frameworks learned in earlier classes (and concurrently), (3) reach conclusions, and (4) make specific recommendations that will resolve the issues presented by the case.

• To prepare for a case discussion, you should read each case and analyze the data that it presents. Texts and readings from earlier courses should be used to the extent that they assist in your preparation. A thorough preparation for discussions includes systematically (1) outlining the major issues presented by the case, (2) identifying the analytical techniques or frameworks appropriate for resolving the problem, and (very important) (3) outlining steps to implement a specific course of action that is supported by the analysis. I would strongly recommend you to review the "Note to the Student: How to Study and Discuss Cases".

Questions to think about while reading cases:

Question 1: What are the basic facts? What are the characteristics of the company and the market?

Question 2: Who are the key players? What are their objectives?

Question 3: Is there an organization in distress? Is there an undeveloped market opportunity?

Question 4: If so, what are the symptoms? What are the measures or evidence? Are they biased?

Question 5: Are there underlying problems or trends? What are they? How do we know?

Question 6: Is there one transcendent problem or opportunity? What is it? How do we know?

Question 7: What decisions need to be made? What are the alternatives for action?

Question 8: What are the pros and cons of each alternative? How do we evaluate them?

Question 9: Which alternative do you recommend? Why?

Question 10: What should we learn from this case?

Question 11: How does this case relate to the course topic? To other cases? To the reading?