Responding to Activists’ Threats

Responding to Activists’ Threats

Your analysis should clearly and concisely state the business problem, identify relevant case issues, state a measurable goal for any solution, analyze the advantages and disadvantages of two possible solutions to the problem, and finally recommend the solution that will best meet the business objectives.

You will demonstrate insight into a multi-faceted, complex issue, recognizing underlying issues in addition to surface problems. You are also expected to use the basic elements of communication in a sophisticated manner.

5-Step Case Analysis Process

(Condensed Shred Process)

Here’s the condensed version of the shred case analysis process, which you will use as a roadmap to writing the communication deliverable:  a memo, report, performance appraisal, news release or other piece.  In class we will analyze case problems with a process known as “The Problem Solving Sequence,” developed by John Dewey and discussed in O’Rourke, Appendix A, “Analyzing A Case Study,” pp 248-253.

In short:

1. Determine the problem,
2. Identify and analyze key facts and underlying assumptions
3. List 2 possible solutions, with pros and cons for each solution
4. Select and defend the best solution
5. Detail implementation of the solution

Step 1:  Define the case problem.

WHO is the decision maker (include title and company), WHAT is the underlying problem and a little background about the case (context) and the decision maker’s goal in solving the problem (what does he/she need to do solve the problem), WHY does he/she need to address this now (what would happen if he/she doesn’t address the problem), and WHEN does he/she need to address it (urgency).

Write the problem statement in 3 to 5 sentences.

Step 2:  Consider facts & underlying assumptions.

             List significant facts and events; disregard irrelevant information.

             Include all information you need to understand the problem.

             Are the underlying assumptions about the facts realistic and reasonable?

             Distinguish between fact, inference and opinion.

Step 3:  List the possible solutions to the problem. (Limit list to 2)

             Do nothing is always one of the options.

             Consider two good viable solutions.

             What are the criteria that must be met in order to accomplish the solutions?

             List the advantages and disadvantages of each solution.

Step 4: Select the best solution and prepare to defend it.

             Show how the solution will solve the problem.

             Use logic and reasoning from the case to support your recommendation.

             Support your position with evidence and opinions from the case.

             Match the selected solution against the criteria.

Step 5:  Decide how to implement the solution through a plan of action.

             What specific actions are needed?

             What is the timeline and resources?

             Who are the people involved?

             What is the impact of the solution on the organization?

             How will you measure the expected results?

Communicate findings through a memo or report.

             There is no one correct format to prepare a written case analysis.

             Select a format that is appropriate for purpose, audience, and situation.

Five Steps to Case Analysis Method

1. Define and state the business problem specifically. (Problem Statement)
2. State your purpose (short term and long term goals) and measurable objective. (Purpose/Objective)
3. Write two or three alternative solutions to the problem, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each. (Alternative Solutions)
4. Recommend the best one solution that will best meet your measurable objective. (Recommended Solution)
5. State the immediate action steps the reader can take to get the ball rolling. (Action Steps)

You will write each Case Analysis in Memo Format utilizing the correct Section Headings.

Name

Class

Problem Statement

Purpose/Objective

Alternative Solutions

Solution #1: (Include Pros and Cons)

Solution #2: (Include Pros and Cons)

Recommended Solution

Action Steps