FIVE ELEMENTS IN A PROBLEM-BASED CASE STUDY ANALYSIS

1. Problem definition
Recognizing problems can be tricky simply because they are rarely defined in a case. You can’t
begin a causal explanation until you know the problem that needs to be explained. A problem
definition organizes, concentrates, and describes the critical effects that the main character in
the case should be most concerned about.
A problem requires a diagnosis based on cause-and-effect analysis.
2. Diagnosis
To diagnose a problem-based case, it is useful to answer these specific questions
- Who or what is the subject of the problem (a manager, a company, a country)?
- What is the problem? Am I trying to account for a failure, a success, or something more
ambiguous?
- What’s the significance of the problem to the subject?
- Who is responsible for the problem and what might he need to know to do something
about it?
A diagnosis is a summary statement of the important causes.
3. Cause-effect analysis
The problem situation in a case presents effects as well as information and data that make
possible the diagnosis and a causal explanation. The actions or activities that caused the effects
of interest have been completed. You need to reason backward to understand causes that bring
about the problems described in the case. In a problem analysis, you first need to separate
effects from causes. Then work backward to identify underlying causes of the effects. Complex
effects imply multiple causes.
4. Concepts and frameworks
Cause-effect analysis relies on causal frameworks appropriate to the problem. Such frameworks
allow us to make statements like “firm linking capability encourages the firm adoption of wholly
owned subsidiary as an entry mode choice.” Specialized methods – business frameworks,
theories, and formulas- fill this role. One of the first things you need to consider when you
recognize a problem is what causal frameworks are relevant to it.
5. Actions
You should reflect on your analysis and formulate actions that will improve the current state as
it is described in the problem definition. For example, an action plan for a case where a
manager has experienced failed change effort can be as follows:
The manager needs to build allies and networks in the field so that people get to know
and trust her. She should use the networks to obtain feedback on her proposal so that it reflects
conditions and needs of the centers.”

Adopted from Ellet (2007) Case Study Handbook: How to Read, Discuss, and Write Persuasivelly About
Cases. Harvard Business Review Press.