1. Introduction (typically 1 paragraph no longer than half-page)
Set the scene: background information, relevant facts, and the most important issues.
Formulate and include a thesis statement for your analysis in 12 sentences.
2. Background Analysis
Identify the key problems/issues in the case study and explain why they are the major
problems based on evidence/data. What is your analysis of the current situation? What
decisions need to be made and why? Can you recognize and analyze the key strengths
and weaknesses? Can you recognize and analyze the key opportunities and threats?
3. Alternatives
Outline possible/reasonable alternatives (at least 1 for each problem you identified)
How would you analyze the pros and cons of the alternatives?
o How would you recognize and handle risks?
o Explain why an alternative(s) should be rejected by providing possible
constraints/reasons as to why the alternative(s) would not be possible
o Internal/external environmental impacts of each alternative
4. Proposed Solution
Provide 1 to 2 specific and realistic solution(s) and explain why you chose the solution(s)
How does the solution(s) address the key issues from the background analysis?
Support this solution with solid evidence including:
o Concepts from class (text readings, discussions, lectures)
o Outside research
o Personal experience(s)
What resources will be required to make the solution(s) possible?
5. Recommendations
Determine and discuss specific strategies for accomplishing/implementing the proposed
solution(s).
What should be done and who should do it?
Identify possible opposing views or obstacles to the recommended solution(s) and rebuttal
