Individual Case Analysis
1. Individual Participation (15% of course grade) Participation grades will be assigned based on the contributions that you make to class
discussions over the course of the semester. Contributions should be made based on full
preparation prior to class (i.e., having read the assigned reading and case material, completed
assigned questions, and considered how the material relates to other course content). You should
note that it is the quality rather than the quantity of participation that counts. I judge comments
to be of high quality to the extent that they possess one or more of the following attributes:
they bring the conceptual issues from this course and other coursework in the MHRM program to the analysis of cases, current events, or other topics covered in class
discussions;
they contribute to moving the discussion and analysis forward—they offer a unique, relevant perspective on the issue being discussed;
they transcend the “I feel” syndrome, that is, they make an argument and present supporting evidence;
they communicate ideas to the class in a civil, professional way.
Absences: I understand that occasional absences may be necessary, and I do not penalize
students for missing a class or two throughout the semester. However, you are responsible for
communicating with your team regarding any absences and ensuring that you fulfill all of the
obligations outlined in your team case agreement (see below). You are also responsible for
connecting with a classmate to determine any material that you miss when you are not in class.
2. Individual Case Analysis (15% of course grade) Each student must submit a written case analysis for one assigned case of your choice. You may
choose any case assigned in the syllabus, with the exception of the first case. In your case
analysis you should do the following:
A. Begin with a brief SWOT analysis of the focal company (based on information provided
in the case)
B. Identify the key problem/challenge faced by the company in the case.
C. Identify possible solutions to the issue problem/challenge identified above.
D. Assess the pros and cons of each of these possible solutions.
E. Based on the above assessments, make a recommendation to the company, explaining the
rationale for your suggestions.
The facts, evidence, and recommendations in your case analysis should be based only on the
information provided in the case, rather than your knowledge of the company and its
activities “in real life”. That is, for the purpose of this analysis, I am not interested in what a
company actually did, how successful a particular decision turned out to be for a company,
etc., as my intent here is to see how you evaluate and work through a particular challenge
given the knowledge you develop in the course.
The case analysis should be no more than 6 pages, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins in
Times New Roman font. Your case analysis is due on Sakai by 4pm on the day the case is
scheduled to be discussed in class. Note that case analyses submitted after this time will not
be accepted.