Some cases include discussion questions at the end, whereas others will be based on independent research. For example, a Harvard Business Case (used in many business courses) usually consists of a five- or six-page case introduction/study followed by questions. You can read discussion questions before or after delving into the case. An independent assignment differs in that you might be asked you to evaluate XYZ company or ABC widgets entirely on your own. Make sure that you understand the assignment requirements, especially about formatting and page limits.
Start your analysis by exploring the company's background and growth. If writing about Starbucks, then you should know that the company is based in Washington and has grown into a global entity. Next, highlight company strengths and weaknesses, like Starbucks' brand image, product line and price structure. Assess any opportunities and threats, like whether McDonald's product expansion has impacted Starbucks' sales. An another example, a significant issue General Motors faces relates to rising employee costs, so you would discuss labor contracts and health care premiums. Also evaluate business strategies, like JPMorgan Chase's acquisition of Washington Mutual during an economic downturn.
Cases that involve small or new business concepts should assess start-up challenges and market barriers. For example, describe how Edible Arrangements entered an established market by creating an innovative product. If your case involves an international business, describe the impact of any cultural differences that arose as the company entered a new market. For example, you could analyze how IKEA entered the U.S. market while retaining most of its furniture designs, even though households in the U.S. differ significantly from those in Europe. Your writing should describe any ethical dilemmas, accounting strategies (first in vs. last in, cash vs. accrual based), organizational structures and information technology advances that are factors for the case or business industry that you are writing about.