How Do I Solve a Business Case Study?

A case study is a compilation of fact based data extracted from hypothetical or real business situations. A general requirement in solving all case studies is analyzing the information provided and concluding what strategies can help resolve the issues discussed. The strategies put forward should be relevant to the case provided.

Certain chronological steps are required in solving a case study. The extraction and arrangement of facts pertaining to the case is the first basic step required. One way to go about it is to re-read the case in order to comprehend facts and come up with potential strategies. Any statement or argument not supported by facts in the case should be considered doubtful and analyzed accordingly. The underlining of important facts and interpretation of charts and statistics aids in solving the case with supportive facts.

Once you are comfortable with the information, you should move on to the second step, that is, recognition of all the key issues revolving around the case. Some key issues might be in the form of obvious facts such as increasing competition or changing business environment, while other key issues might not be obvious to every reader and thus, require deep study. You need to identify the consequences these key issues inflict on the firm and come up with relevant questions, answers to which might be useful in solving the key issues.

After the identification of issues, you need to jot down the alternative actions relevant to the key issues. The course of action suggested should be suitable to the firm's environment. Not all strategies can be generalized as effective for any given business scenario. The strategies put forward should therefore be in accordance with the overall strategy of the firm, legal restrictions, competitive environment, sources of supply etc. This requires you to move on to the next step of evaluating the courses of action.

The evaluation needs to be undertaken in a way that every probable option is analyzed according to the data provided in the case and the strategic concepts highlighted in the text. Certain set criteria of evaluation should be followed and every suggestion should be based on that. The risks linked with each alternative should be noted and analyzed as to whether the risk is worth taking or not. You should mention any vital data not quoted in the case as it shows your understanding of the actual situation.

Lastly, the solving of the case requires a recommendation regarding the best course of action. Usually students confuse this recommendation part with a general preparation of case summary. Reaching realistic conclusions after identification of key issues and effective examination is what is required of you.

In short, you need to portray a deep understanding of the doctrines of strategic retail management, as well as, the case itself. Bear in mind that lengthy summaries and quotations of irrelevant business content should be avoided. Instead, precise and meaningful conclusions will aid you solve the case effectively.