Recommended Format

1.  Statement of Problem(s)

This section should contain a statement of the problem(s) which the case will attempt to solve.  Although there may be more than one problem, there is usually one primary problem which is the underlying cause of the other secondary problems.  Determine this primary problem and be fairly specific. 

2.  Relevant Facts of the Case

This section should include facts of the case which are pertinent to the problem or to the solution offered.  In other words, the identification of facts relevant to the problem(s) within the case so as to make an intelligence solution. 

3.  Additional Data

Sometimes additional data may be desirable, especially in real-life cases.  Use of secondary sources in the library is

acceptable and encouraged. 

4.  Assumptions

In order to avoid a dead-end, you may occasionally need to make certain assumptions about the situation.  These should be clear, logical and consistent with the known facts of the case.

5.  Identification of Alternative Courses of Action

As you analyze the relevant facts of the case, alternative courses of action or possible solutions to the problems will come to mind.  These alternatives must actually be alternative course of action; in other words, each alternative presented must be a different course of actions.

6.  Evaluation of These Alternative Courses of Action

Analysis of the alternatives consists in part of attempting to predict the probable effects upon, or reaction of, the many variables which influence the success or failure of a course of action.  Each alternative must be examined in much the same way as the initial problem.

7.  Recommended Solution

The next step in preparing a case analysis is to arrive at a decision as to the proper course of action to be taken in order to solve the problems facing the company; in other words, the selection of the course of action that provides the best answer to the problem.

8.  Implementation of Your Decision

You are required to develop detailed or precise answers on how to implement your selected alternative