Business case studies describe invented or real life events faced by an organization. A good case study demonstrates the process a company goes through to solve one or more problems. By reading a case study you get an insider's view of one way a solution was found for a problem by one company. Some criticisms of case studies, according to an article in the Financial Times, notes that women leaders aren't represented in case studies, and "some themes, sectors and perspectives — including those of labour unions — are played down."
Also white male leaders in businesses are overrepresented in published case studies. According to Steven Rogers less than 1 percent of the 10,000 case studies published by Harvard Business School feature black business leaders.
This guide helps you find case studies and resources that can help you analyze and write cases. It can also help you prepare for case competitions.
Your instructor may assign a variety of case studies for your analysis, either individually or in groups. This section can help you learn how to effectively analyze and write a case study. It provides a checklist and explanation of areas to consider, suggested research tools, and tips on financial analysis. One word of warning: be sure these guidelines do not conflict with any directions your instructor gives you.
Search for case studies in articles and ebooks using OneSearch to search for stuff Cal Poly buys for you.
Sample searches:
case study AND (company name)
case study AND (industry name)
case study AND (topic, like diversity, human resources, management, salaries, talent)
Once you do your search take a look at the results. There are likely ebooks and articles. On the left of the screen you can narrow your search to items we have at Cal Poly.
Search EconLit for case studies.
Sample searches:
case study AND (company name)
case study AND (industry name)
case study AND (topic, like diversity, human resources, management, salaries, talent)
Always go through your Cal Poly portal to access Google Scholar, that way you'll get 'free' content that Cal Poly buys.
Sample searches:
case study AND (company name)
case study AND (industry name)
case study AND (topic, like diversity, human resources, management, salaries, talent)