Case Study Method: Understanding the Case Study Process

Case Study Method: Understanding the Case Study ProcessThe Case Study Method is a self-directed learning method, an assessment and evaluation system designed to take the hassle out of creating and implementing a management practice plan. By simplifying the complexity of effective management plans and planning processes, it enables practitioners to create formal plans that meet client needs and expectations and achieve long-term results. One of the keys to the success of a Case Study Method is in its sequential approach - all processes and events are studied and evaluated, and then decisions are made, modified, or replaced.What is really required for effective management is the ability to implement changing decisions quickly and precisely. However, in an organization that experiences high turnover, an individual who is required to make quick and complex decisions cannot usually be trusted with this type of responsibility. That is why case studies are developed, to help identify and ad dress the problem before it becomes unmanageable. The results of such a study to provide a fresh perspective on the way forward, and enable the individual to achieve significant short-term improvements.Case Study Method takes the pain out of creating management plans. Instead of using many hours per week, case studies allow practitioners to do so from the comfort of their own home, which is usually outside of the normal working hours. A few simple guidelines have been developed for the case study procedures, which can be incorporated into any management plan:Start with a solution: what do your clients need? If you're an insurance agency, you may want to start by looking at the four stages of the life cycle. Then consider how you can take advantage of what these stages have to offer. In the end, it's all about answering the question 'how can we do this more efficiently?'Provide your clients with realistic expectations: Once you've determined the current requirements and problems, sta rt by defining how much help will be required. Choose a manageable level of staff and resources, but avoid reaching for the maximum, because you don't want to end up in a situation where you feel that you're already overworked.Create an outline of the process: Draw up a program that outlines the programmatic features and implementation schedule, as well as the interactions between the organization and the stakeholders. You may want to divide the project into modules that include core functions, business integration, marketing strategy, and general support. Add in quality assurance, data management, and documentation systems and you'll soon see the benefits of an organised and more streamlined case study program.Implement the program: Assemble your brief outline of program features and deliverables, and then begin to implement them. Being careful to follow each of the steps outlined above will enable you to produce a professional case study, which will serve as a reference point for future client management initiatives.Once you understand the Case Study Method, you'll know that the implementation of your management program is much easier, and the solutions and results much more reliable. A strong case study will help prevent future difficulties, and if implemented correctly, it will provide your clients with exactly what they need.