Resources
Everything you need to prepare for your first case.
The case process
Follow these steps in order for every case.
Define the problem
Write one question with measurable goals, such as sales growth or market share by a set date.
Analyze the situation
Use the frameworks below to understand the company, the market and the competition.
Choose and justify a strategy
Compare 2 to 3 options, score them against your goals and recommend one.
Plan and present
Show the action plan, budget and expected results in a clear pitch.
Framework cheat sheet
Which tool to use, and when.
| Framework | Use it to |
|---|---|
| SWOT | Summarize strengths, weaknesses (internal) and opportunities, threats (external) |
| PESTEL | Scan political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal factors |
| Porter's Five Forces | Judge industry attractiveness: new entrants, suppliers, buyers, substitutes, rivalry |
| Segmentation and targeting | Define who the customer is by location, demographics, values and behaviour |
| Ansoff Matrix | Generate growth options: penetration, new products, new markets, diversification |
| 4 Ps | Plan product, price, place and promotion for your strategy |
Presentation tips
- Lead with your recommendation, then explain why.
- One main idea per slide.
- Use numbers to support every claim.
- Practise out loud and time yourself.
- Prepare for judges' questions on cost and risk.
Case synopsis template
Our write-up structure covers the introduction, problem statement, analysis, solution, implementation and references.
Open the template