In case analysis (and activities), please include outside research beyond the textbook, i.e. 4 or more references.
In some case/activities, there are questions to answer. Please answer them. Also, UPDATE the cases, even if it changes the problem(s).
One form of case analysis includes these steps:
1. Cast of Characters (CC); 2.Goals of CC; 3.Facts; 4.Problems (prioritize!)*; 5.Causes; 6.Alternatives; 7.Solution from alternatives (of each problem); and, 8. Action/Implementation.
*If you have more than one problem, each problem should then have causes, 3 or more alternatives, a solution and implementation. Alternately, you might identify the most critical problem (or problems) and solve that one (or ones).
Or, in general, please engage in: 1. a critical review; 2. research; 3. analysis; 4. insight; 5. choice; and 6. implementation.
Problem Areas in Case Analysis
Please identify the particular number associated with the problem and make your corrections for a better grade.
1. Note the source of the information or note as an assumption (A).
2. Use outline format versus extensive prose as much as possible.
3. Use headings and sub-headings.
4. Change the wording to be more grammatically correct.
5. Support your analysis with research.
6. Use Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) or Standard International Trade Classification (SITC) codes.
7. Decrease the amount of personal opinion, especially, in the form of ethnocentrism.
8. Increase your research of the economic, political/legal, technological, social/cultural, ethical, and ecological environment.
9. If appropriate, a) include a functional review, e.g. marketing, human resources, financial, operations, research and development, and etc. during the past 5-10 years. b) separate strengths and weaknesses.
10. Use industry standards. Research is necessary to establish the standard.
11. Increase the use of quantitative (vs. qualitative) measures.
12. Increase the detail for your implementation. Assign responsibilities to each division, i.e. identify corporate, business, and functional responsibilities. Remember to use measures for monitoring (problem #11).
13. Increase the amount and diversity of sources.
14. The format for the references in the text and/or in the bibliography is not appropriate.
STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS MODEL (SPPM) by David Flynn, Ph.D.
The following model is the actual outline to be used in writing up both individual and group cases. Any deviation from this format will result in less than full credit! Please also use outline form versus prose.
(Please see for research information at Hofstra and other sources.) http://www.hofstra.edu/Libraries/Axinn/axinn_instructions_busres_bzhmpage.cfm), http://www.datamonitor.com/ , http://www.marketguide.com/ , etc.
Please note the SPPM is a complex process. In the future part of the analysis (Part II), a shortened version may be undertaken to reduce the complexity. However, the SPPM, as a robust process, should include all steps.
Please update the information in the financial, competitive, and environmental information.
I. Historical Analysis (t (-10) -> t (0))
Reference all material in the Historical Analysis or note as an assumption (A). A. Business(es) In
Identification of businesses the organization is involved. Total sales and net income are noted first. Next, list the % of sales and net income for each business division. "Pie charts" are most effective in presenting this step. Identify the NAICS/SITC code for each industry.
e.g. http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/naics.html http://www.tradeport.org/ts/planning/sitc/
B. Goal Clarification
The essential character of the organization is established in an historical perspective. Values and priorities of the owners and stakeholders define the culture of the organization that reflect goals. Goals tend to be open ended without specific