strategy& structured case study

47 case interview examples (from McKinsey, BCG, Bain, etc.)

One of the best ways to prepare for   case interviews  at firms like McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, is by studying case interview examples. 

There are a lot of free sample cases out there, but it's really hard to know where to start. So in this article, we have listed all the best free case examples available, in one place.

The below list of resources includes interactive case interview samples provided by consulting firms, video case interview demonstrations, case books, and materials developed by the team here at IGotAnOffer. Let's continue to the list.

• McKinsey examples
• BCG examples
• Bain examples
• Deloitte examples
• Other firms' examples
• Case books from consulting clubs
• Case interview preparation

Click here to practise 1-on-1 with MBB ex-interviewers

1. mckinsey case interview examples.

• Beautify case interview (McKinsey website)
• Diconsa case interview (McKinsey website)
• Electro-light case interview (McKinsey website)
• GlobaPharm case interview (McKinsey website)
• National Education case interview (McKinsey website)
• Talbot Trucks case interview (McKinsey website)
• Shops Corporation case interview (McKinsey website)
• Conservation Forever case interview (McKinsey website)
• McKinsey case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)
• Profitability case with ex-McKinsey manager (by IGotAnOffer)
• McKinsey live case interview extract (by IGotAnOffer) - See below

2. BCG case interview examples

• Foods Inc and GenCo case samples  (BCG website)
• Chateau Boomerang written case interview  (BCG website)
• BCG case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)
• Written cases guide (by IGotAnOffer)
• BCG live case interview with notes (by IGotAnOffer)
• BCG mock case interview with ex-BCG associate director - Public sector case (by IGotAnOffer)
• BCG mock case interview: Revenue problem case (by IGotAnOffer) - See below

3. Bain case interview examples

• CoffeeCo practice case (Bain website)
• FashionCo practice case (Bain website)
• Associate Consultant mock interview video (Bain website)
• Consultant mock interview video (Bain website)
• Written case interview tips (Bain website)
• Bain case interview guide   (by IGotAnOffer)
• Digital transformation case with ex-Bain consultant
• Bain case mock interview with ex-Bain manager (below)

4. Deloitte case interview examples

• Engagement Strategy practice case (Deloitte website)
• Recreation Unlimited practice case (Deloitte website)
• Strategic Vision practice case (Deloitte website)
• Retail Strategy practice case  (Deloitte website)
• Finance Strategy practice case  (Deloitte website)
• Talent Management practice case (Deloitte website)
• Enterprise Resource Management practice case (Deloitte website)
• Footloose written case  (by Deloitte)
• Deloitte case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

5. Accenture case interview examples

• Case interview workbook (by Accenture)
• Accenture case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

6. OC&C case interview examples

• Leisure Club case example (by OC&C)
• Imported Spirits case example (by OC&C)

7. Oliver Wyman case interview examples

• Wumbleworld case sample (Oliver Wyman website)
• Aqualine case sample (Oliver Wyman website)
• Oliver Wyman case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

8. A.T. Kearney case interview examples

• Promotion planning case question (A.T. Kearney website)
• Consulting case book and examples (by A.T. Kearney)
• AT Kearney case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

9. Strategy& / PWC case interview examples

• Presentation overview with sample questions (by Strategy& / PWC)
• Strategy& / PWC case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

10. L.E.K. Consulting case interview examples

• Case interview example video walkthrough   (L.E.K. website)
• Market sizing case example video walkthrough  (L.E.K. website)

11. Roland Berger case interview examples

• Transit oriented development case webinar part 1  (Roland Berger website)
• Transit oriented development case webinar part 2   (Roland Berger website)
• 3D printed hip implants case webinar part 1   (Roland Berger website)
• 3D printed hip implants case webinar part 2   (Roland Berger website)
• Roland Berger case interview guide   (by IGotAnOffer)

12. Capital One case interview examples

• Case interview example video walkthrough  (Capital One website)
• Capital One case interview guide (by IGotAnOffer)

12. EY Parthenon case interview examples

• Candidate-led case example with feedback (by IGotAnOffer)

14. Consulting clubs case interview examples

• Berkeley case book (2006)
• Columbia case book (2006)
• Darden case book (2012)
• Darden case book (2018)
• Duke case book (2010)
• Duke case book (2014)
• ESADE case book (2011)
• Goizueta case book (2006)
• Illinois case book (2015)
• LBS case book (2006)
• MIT case book (2001)
• Notre Dame case book (2017)
• Ross case book (2010)
• Wharton case book (2010)

Practice with experts

Using case interview examples is a key part of your interview preparation, but it isn’t enough.

At some point you’ll want to practise with friends or family who can give some useful feedback. However, if you really want the best possible preparation for your case interview, you'll also want to work with ex-consultants who have experience running interviews at McKinsey, Bain, BCG, etc.

If you know anyone who fits that description, fantastic! But for most of us, it's tough to find the right connections to make this happen. And it might also be difficult to practice multiple hours with that person unless you know them really well.

Here's the good news. We've already made the connections for you. We’ve created a coaching service where you can do mock case interviews 1-on-1 with ex-interviewers from MBB firms . Start scheduling sessions today!

Related articles:

The PwC Case Interview (Including Strategy&) – A Complete Guide

• Last Updated January, 2024

PwC is an accounting firm with a huge consulting arm. Its consulting business is as large as those of Bain, BCG, and McKinsey combined. If you’re interested in landing a job in the consulting industry, it’s a great firm to apply to because its business combines strategy consulting (Strategy&) as well as business transformation/implementation (PwC).

If you want to know more about PwC consulting and Strategy&, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll discuss:

• An overview of PwC Consulting and Strategy&.
• The PwC recruitment process.
• The PwC case interview.
• The behavioral/fit interview.
• The PwC group case.
• The PwC individual presentation.
• Our 5 tips for preparing for PwC and Strategy& interviews.

Let’s get started!

PwC Consulting and Strategy& - An Overview

The pwc group case, the pwc recruitment process, the pwc individual presentation, the pwc case interview (including strategy&).

5 Tips for Preparing for PwC and Strategy& Interview

The PwC Behavioral Interview

PwC Consulting and Strategy & - An Overview

5 Tips for Preparing for PwC and Strategy & Interview

PwC employs over a quarter of a million people in 155 countries worldwide. Its operations are divided into two parts: Trust Solutions and Consulting Solutions. Trust Solutions focuses on its accounting and tax services. PwC Consulting Solutions help a broad spectrum of clients navigate complex business issues by leveraging PwC’s significant experience and range of capabilities.

Client case studies include:

• helping TransRe adopt an enterprise resource planning system to collect and manage data, offering insight and improved decision-making.
• supporting Chipotle to implement a loyalty program to improve customer relationships, build loyalty, and drive business growth.
• providing pro bono consulting to charity The Trevor Project to strengthen its technological capabilities and optimize its volunteer recruitment process.

How does PwC Consulting differ from Strategy&?

In 2014, PwC acquired Booz & Co., the commercial arm of consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton, and renamed it Strategy&. While PwC Consulting focuses on typical management consulting cases and implementation projects, Strategy& specializes in strategy consulting.

Set up by PwC to attempt to compete with McKinsey, Bain, and BCG, Strategy& has over 3,000 consultants helping businesses shape their future strategies. Strategy& focuses on creating competitive advantage by “developing corporate and business unit strategies and building differentiating capabilities that outperform the competition.” ( Source: PwC )

Implementation of those strategies is handed over to PwC consulting teams. If you join PwC’s management consulting team you will, “help clients translate strategy into execution, closing the gap between ideas and outcomes, to transform the organization and achieve tangible business results.” (Source: PwC)

Like most other Big 4 firms (EY, Deloitte, and KPMG), the PwC recruitment process has multiple stages:

Stage 1: The PwC Application

For entry-level recruitment, the first stage of the PwC process is to submit an application form for the particular roles you’re interested in. You can search for your school’s application deadline on PwC’s interactive campus map. If you can’t find your school or have recently graduated, you should submit by their September deadline. You’ll be asked to pick your top 2 preferred office locations and you’ll need to submit a resume.

To learn more about how to write a stellar consulting resume, read Consulting Resume: Everything You Need to Know .

Stage 2: The PwC Online Test

A few hours after you’ve submitted your application, PwC will send you an assessment to complete via email. You have to complete the online test within 3 calendar days so it’s worth thinking about that when applying. The PwC online test is a series of games-based assessments to measure cognitive ability, behavioral preferences, and verbal and numerical reasoning.

Learn more by reading PwC Online Test .

Stage 3: The PwC Interview

If you successfully pass the online test, PwC will invite you to a series of interviews. These will include a case interview and behavioral interview and may include a group case and an individual presentation. The first of these interviews is sometimes conducted as a video interview where you’ll record your answers to a range of questions and case studies. Group interviews have traditionally been part of the recruiting process for sophomore consulting internship candidates and select other groups. It’s a good idea to clarify with your recruiting contact what types of interviews you’ll have.

In the past, the bulk of the remaining interviews, group, or individual activities took place during an assessment day. However, for 2021-22 recruitment, PwC US is moving to virtual interviewing. For Consulting Services, you’ll face two virtual, live interviews back-to-back. If you move forward in the process, there may be a final additional  interview.

Nail the case & fit interview with strategies from former MBB Interviewers that have helped 89.6% of our clients pass the case interview.

The case interview process is similar for both PwC Consulting Services and Strategy&. The case interviews are both candidate-led, which means you’ll be responsible for deciding what analysis you want to do and what the approach should be.

The PwC case interviews for Consulting Services applicants typically focus on profit optimization, cost optimization, and market sizing. For example, a recent candidate was asked to “Run me through a market sizing estimate of the iPhone market in Asia.”

For a breakdown of precisely what each of these types is, read Case Interview Types: Master Common Ones Before Your Interview .

The PwC Strategy& case interview includes more strategy-focused cases (such as make-vs-buy decisions, new product introduction, M&A, etc.), but how you tackle a case interview is the same no matter which area you’re applying for.

Following this 4-step model gives you the best chance for success:

• Understand the question . Make sure you understand what it is you’re being asked to do. Repeat back to the interviewing team what exactly you think the task is so they can correct you if necessary.
• Create a structured approach to the problem . Analyze what data you’ve been given and identify areas where you need more information about the client’s problem. Use a business framework to explore the case further or, better yet, create one of your own that’s specific to the issues in your case.
• Ask relevant questions and analyze the problem . Begin to share the assumptions you’re making about the case and ask the interviewing team questions about areas where you’re uncertain or need more data to inform your judgments.
• Effectively communicate your recommendation . Walk the interviewing team through your recommendation(s), explaining how you used the data provided to back up your recommendations. Make sure you call out any assumptions made or any risks associated with the action you’re proposing.

The fit or behavioral interview is a way for interviewers to figure out how well candidates would work within the firm’s culture and how they’d be in front of clients. Interviewers want to feel that they could work well with you if you were part of their team and that you’d represent the firm effectively on client projects.

While the exact questions will differ between firms, here are ten common questions asked in behavioral interviews:

PwC's Core Values

PwC has 5 core values that define its culture and approach:     

• Act with integrity
• Make a difference
• Work together
• Reimagine the possible

It’s important to ensure that when answering interview questions, you keep these values in mind. For example, if the interviewer asks you to tell them more about yourself or what you do for fun, pick stories that show where you’ve made a difference, challenged the status quo, or tried something new.

If you’re interviewing for several different firms, it’s important to tailor your responses to each individual firm. Try not to rely on stock answers about why management consulting is the role for you. Many other candidates will also be waxing lyrical about working with the best people, on the most interesting projects, for the most exciting clients.

Try researching cases the firm has recently been involved in and explain why they’re interesting to you. Or look into work the firm does regarding corporate social responsibility and talk about how it aligns with your values.

The Best Answers to PwC Behavioral Interview Questions Are Stories

Frame your examples as stories. Stories engage interviewers even after a long day interviewing dozens of candidates. While you want to remain professional, it’s ok to talk with emotion as you share your stories. Interviewers want to see humans, not robots! One of PwC’s core values is ‘Care’ so interviewers want to know what’s important to you and more about the things that make you you.

Make sure you also reflect on your own learning from the examples you want to share in your interview. You’ll likely be asked about how you work in a team, how you handle conflict, and how you overcome failure. Using a model like the ASTAR(E) framework helps you remember to share the effect that going through that experience had on you and how it’s changed how you would approach things in the future.

For the Strategy& interview specifically, it’s worth noting that you may face more behavioral questions than you expect. PwC is keen to check that you’re not just using Strategy& as an MBB backup and wants to make sure you’re a great fit for the firm.

To learn more about acing the behavioral interview, read The Consulting Fit Interview: What to Say, What NOT to Say .

PwC has traditionally used a group case as part of its recruiting process during the assessment day for some applicants (most frequently, undergraduate sophomores applying for internships). A typical group case experience involves you working within a small group to solve a business case.

Interviewers assess both analytical and behavioral competencies as you work in your team to solve the case. This means you have 2 roles during a group case. First, you need to contribute to solving the case — providing analysis, making logical assumptions and judgments, and offering insight to shape the overall recommendation you present to the client.

Secondly, you need to showcase how well you can work within a team — offering an opinion, demonstrating active listening, summarizing and building on others’ points of view, and leading the team towards consensus.

Recent interviewees have not had a group case as part of their PwC interview process. This is likely due to Covid restrictions, so make sure you are ready for a group case in the event PwC reintroduces them. If you want more help on preparing for a group case interview, read This Is What You Need to Know to Pass Your Group Case Interview .

As part of the recruitment process, you may be asked to prepare an individual presentation. This comes in the form of a written case presentation. Unlike other firms, PwC releases the information you’ll need to prepare your recommendation 48 hours in advance of the interview.

Using the information provided, you’ll have to prepare a PowerPoint presentation showing your analysis of the data, explaining any assumptions you’ve made, and detailing your client recommendations.

On the day of the interview, you’ll spend 15–30 minutes presenting your findings and then 15–30 minutes taking questions on them from the interviewing team.

Bain and BCG commonly request a written case, so this may feel familiar if you’ve interviewed for them. For more information on preparing for a written case interview, check out Written Case Interviews – Everything You Need To Know .

5 Tips for Preparing for PwC and Strategy& Interviews

Now you’re clear on the different elements that make up the PwC interviews, here are our top 5 tips for acing them:

1. Research

Make sure you do your research before your PwC or Strategy& interview. Understand what it is about the firm that appeals to you, what type of case work they’re involved in, and how else they get involved in the community.

It can sometimes be helpful to figure out what a company isn’t as much as what it is. So compare PwC to other firms and note the differences and why PwC still appeals. Learn their core values and what a typical day would involve as an analyst, or the specific role you’re applying for.

Ensure you also know as much as possible about the format for the interview. Are you expected to complete several tasks or just one? How much time will you have? Will you have a single interviewer or multiple? Company websites often describe the people they’re looking for to join their team — those will be the attributes you’ll be assessed against, so make sure you’re clear on what they are.

2. Prepare and Practice

Once you’ve done all your research, start your preparation. Use case interview examples to practice your casing skills. The linked page includes several PwC case examples as well as ones from other consulting firms. Make sure you feel confident in your case interview math skills too.

For your behavioral interview, make sure you’ve prepared answers to typical questions such as “Tell me about yourself” and “How would you manage a challenging team member?” Make sure your answers follow the ASTAR(E) framework and that you’ve tailored them to show off how you meet the PwC core values. You can practice answering these questions with a friend or coach until you feel confident in your responses.

3. Follow a Structure

Consulting firms are looking for structured thinkers who can solve a wide variety of business problems. Show your structured problem-solving skills by creating a framework that identifies the key issues you want to address in the case and use this framework to keep your progress in the case on track. Building your answers around a framework can help ensure you cover all the important points succinctly and confidently.

4. Explain Your Approach and Any Assumptions

Remember your math teacher always used to tell you to show your work? Well, it’s the same during consulting interviews. If you’re using data or solving math problems during your PwC case interview and you end up with an incorrect answer, it’s important to gain as much credit as possible.

Maybe you just made a small error in your calculation but your assumptions and approach were sound. The interviewer will never know that unless you walk them through the steps you take as you’re solving the case. Make sure you talk aloud as you’re putting together the pieces of the case and ensure you clearly state any assumptions you’ve made as you present your final recommendation. By making your assumptions clear, you‘ll allow your interviewer to guide you if you get off-track.

5. Communicate Confidently

In the PwC case interview, once you’ve decided on a recommendation, make sure you communicate your thoughts confidently. While interviewers are obviously interested in your analytical skills, business acumen, and logical approach, they also care about how you’re going to appear in front of clients. They need you to be able to effectively communicate your thoughts and respond appropriately to questions and feedback.

This is also true of the behavioral interview, where your interviewers also care about how you’ll fit within their team and what it’d be like to work long hours on a project with you. They’ll expect you to talk with passion about things you care about, offer thoughtful or interesting stories in response to questions, and seem friendly, competent, and approachable.

– – – – –

In this article, we’ve covered:

• The difference between PwC Consulting and Strategy&.
• The stages of the PwC recruiting process.
• What you need to know about the PwC case interview, behavioral interview, group interview, and individual presentation.
• 5 tips for success in PwC interviews.

Still have questions?

• Our Ultimate Guide to Case Interview Prep .
• PwC Psychometric Assessment .
• The Big 4: How Do They Fit Into the Consulting Industry
• Group Case Interview .
• Written Case Interview .

Help with Case Study Interview Prep

Thanks for turning to My Consulting Offer for advice on PwC case interviews. My Consulting Offer has helped almost 85% of the people we’ve worked with to get a job in management consulting. We want you to be successful in your consulting interviews too. For example, here is how Alex was able to get his offer from Strategy&.

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3 Top Strategies to Master the Case Interview in Under a Week

We are sharing our powerful strategies to pass the case interview even if you have no business background, zero casing experience, or only have a week to prepare.

No thanks, I don't want free strategies to get into consulting.

We are excited to invite you to the online event., where should we send you the calendar invite and login information.

Free Guide to Strategy& Consulting Case Interviews

You want to work at Strategy& and are now faced with the question of how to apply to this consulting company? Then you've come to the right place because in this article we will guide you through the entire application process at Strategy& , the requirements you need to meet, what to expect and what tips and tricks will help you get your job offer from Strategy&.

1. About Strategy&

In the heart of Strategy&'s legacy is a rich tradition of innovation , dating back to the origins of Booz Allen Hamilton in 1914. Renowned for shaping management consulting and pioneering supply chain management, the firm's 2014 union with Booz & Company and PwC solidified its holistic "strategy-to-execution" approach. Seamlessly integrated into the PwC network, Strategy& leverages its comprehensive capabilities, steering clients through transformative journeys that include averting bankruptcy at Chrysler Corporation and supporting Deutsche Telekom's cloud-based transformation.

As a global leader in strategy consulting, Strategy& has a presence in 60 countries with a workforce exceeding 3000 professionals . Rooted in a storied history of contributing foundational concepts, including supply chain management, the firm aligns seamlessly with PwC's mission, offering comprehensive end-to-end consulting services. Serving as a talent hub, Strategy& is a major recruiter from prestigious business schools, placing emphasis on case interviews to highlight its commitment to analytical prowess and problem-solving skills .

In the dynamic business landscape, the firm's legacy of innovation, unwavering commitment to excellence, and strategic vision continue to shape the trajectory of global strategy consulting, solidifying its enduring influence in the industry . Ranked as the second-largest recruiter from Columbia Business School in the US and the t hird-largest from INSEAD in Europe , Strategy& places a spotlight on the case interview as the focal point of their rigorous selection process, ensuring a commitment to excellence and analytical acumen in their consultants .

2. What Strategy& are Looking for

As part of their rebranding, Strategy& was integrated with PwC and they have adopted a set of common values. They have five values that they look for in their candidates :

1. Act with integrity:

• ​ Expectation: Candidates should demonstrate honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in their professional interactions.
• Context: Given PwC's historical role as an accounting firm with a focus on financial transparency, integrity is considered a foundational value.

2. Make a difference:

• Expectation: Candidates are encouraged to prioritize actions that create a positive impact on colleagues, clients, and society.
• Context: This value emphasizes a focus on meaningful contributions that extend beyond commercial considerations, aligning with the firm's commitment to societal well-being.
• Expectation: Candidates should excel in case interviews, highlighting their analytical prowess and problem-solving skills.
• Context: Case interviews are a focal point in Strategy&'s selection process, underscoring the importance of analytical thinking in consulting roles.

4. Work together:

• Expectation: Candidates should exhibit effective teamwork skills and collaborate efficiently in project teams.
• Context: Collaboration is critical in consulting, and the ability to work harmoniously towards common goals is essential for successful project outcomes.

5. Reimagine the possible:

• Expectation: Candidates are expected to think innovatively and identify new ways of working or innovative products.
• Context: In the face of a rapidly changing business world and emerging technologies, Strategy& values individuals who can envision and drive new possibilities for clients.

3. Strategy& Application Process

There are four stages to the Strategy& application process :

1. Resume and Cover Letter Submission:

Initiation: The process kicks off with candidates submitting their resumes and cover letters online, presenting an opportunity to showcase their academic achievements and relevant professional experiences.

Expectations: Beyond the academic and professional qualifications, Strategy& is keenly interested in applicants who embody the five core traits integral to the firm's values.

2. Online Assessments:

Introduction: Adopting PwC's online assessment methodology, this stage involves a trilogy of evaluations: a numerical reasoning test, a games-based assessment, and a video interview.

Timeline: The assessments, spanning over 2 hours, are strategically spread across a 4-week period, offering a comprehensive evaluation of candidates' analytical abilities and suitability for consulting roles.

3. Super Day Style Interviews:

Format: Strategy& introduces a 'super day' style for interviews, streamlining the evaluation process.

First-Round Interviews (Morning): Led by junior consultants , the first round consists of two interviews. It commences with a 15-minute Personal Fit Interview, followed by a case interview question. Prompt feedback and decisions regarding the afternoon session are provided at the end of the morning.

Second-Round Interviews (Afternoon): Senior consultants, including partners and directors, conduct two interviews mirroring the first-round format.

Outcome: Post-second round interviews, candidates receive detailed feedback or, in the case of successful candidates, a coveted job offer.

​ 4. Final Decisions:

Closure: The application process concludes with candidates receiving conclusive feedback or, for those who have demonstrated exceptional potential, a formal job offer from Strategy&.

In aligning its application process with PwC's online assessments, Strategy& emphasizes a holistic evaluation approach. The 'super day' structure not only expedites the interview process but also ensures candidates receive timely feedback, enhancing the transparency and efficiency of the recruitment journey. This multi-stage process underscores Strategy&'s commitment to identifying and nurturing top-tier talent to further solidify its position as a global leader in strategy consulting .

• 4. Types of Interviews

Strategy& has two interview formats across their network: experience/fit questions followed by a case interview question and experience/ fit questions followed by a structured case interview .

• 4.1 Case Interview (Question)

Real-life Scenarios: Strategy& structures its case interviews around real-life client examples. Interviewers often draw from their own client engagements, leveraging familiarity with data and context.

Attributes Assessed:

Approach and structure

Analytical and creative thinking

Application of data

Communication skills

Business acumen

Evaluation Criteria: Success in a case interview is gauged based on a candidate's proficiency across these attributes, determining their capability to fulfill the responsibilities of a Strategy& consultant.

• 4.2 Experience Interview

Preliminary Insights: Conducted prior to the case interview, experience questions delve into a candidate's motivations, past experiences, and decision-making skills.

​Sample Questions:

Why are you interested in Strategy&?

Why are you interested in consulting?

What experience are you most proud of?

What experience do you wish you could do over, and how would you do it differently?

What is a difficult decision you have made in the last year?

What is an example of a time when you showed initiative and leadership?

What aspects of your internship did you like less?

What do you most like to do in your free time?

What attributes would you bring to a case team?

Describe a role where you changed the direction of a team. How did you do it?

Key Strategy: Structuring responses to these questions is crucial, showcasing a thoughtful and strategic approach even when discussing non-business-related topics.

• 4.3 Case Interview (Structured)

Information Pack: In this structured case interview, candidates receive a 15-20 page information pack and 10 minutes to read it. They formulate three high-level questions they wish to address. The interviewer leaves during this reading period.

Evaluation Focus: Similar to traditional case interviews, the emphasis is on evaluating a candidate's decision-making process, considering trade-offs, and assessing the robustness of recommendations.

• 5. Case Interview

Structured Approach : Strategy& follows a well-defined structure for case interviews, reflecting the core elements of the consulting process.

• Situation and problem: Understanding the context and defining the problem.

Hypothesis validation: Offering an initial hypothesis and explaining the intention to validate it.

Framework development: Creating a structured framework for analysis.

Root cause analysis: Exploring the framework to identify the root cause of the issue.

Mathematical calculation (sometimes): If relevant, incorporating mathematical calculations.

Creativity test (sometimes): Demonstrating the ability to think creatively and propose alternatives.

Recommendation: Synthesizing findings and providing a clear and concise proposal.

The Strategy& interview process is a nuanced journey, designed to holistically evaluate candidates' analytical prowess, strategic acumen, and adaptability to the intricacies of strategy consulting. This multifaceted assessment requires candidates to navigate real-life scenarios, draw on experience-based insights, and showcase structured problem-solving abilities.

At the inception of the case interview, the scenario is unveiled by the interviewer, presenting a tangible challenge.

An example might be:

"A high street retailer seeks to reduce costs by 30% in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. How would you approach this?"

Candidates embark on this journey by formulating an initial hypothesis, articulating their intention to validate or refute it. Subsequently, a meticulously crafted framework is developed to guide the analysis, adhering to the MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) principle. Successful exploration of the framework unveils the root cause of the client's issue, allowing for relevant calculations.

The creativity test introduces a layer of complexity, requiring candidates to propose alternatives when faced with client constraints.

For example:

"The client opposes store closures; suggest alternative cost-cutting measures."

This test is iterative, assessing the candidate's ability to think creatively and adapt solutions as per evolving constraints. Culminating the process, candidates synthesize their findings into a clear and concise recommendation, showcasing their ability to distill complex analyses into actionable proposals.

The Strategy& interview process is not merely a gauntlet; it's an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their strategic thinking and problem-solving prowess in a simulated consulting environment.

• 6. Additional Tips
• 6.1 Fast Maths

Case interviews are pressurized situations where your anxiety levels are heightened and you don’t have the safety net of notes or the internet to fall back on.

For in-person interviews, it is common that one of the questions will have a mathematical element or be a market sizing question included. These require long maths calculations without a calculator . If you haven’t practiced long addition, multiplication, division, or subtraction recently then it is a good idea to do so. Being quick at maths shows your competent quantitative skills and reduces unnecessary pressure during the interview, increasing your overall performance.

• 6.2 Practice

As with maths, practicing case interviews is the best way to improve your performance . Through practice, you will begin to develop a robust approach that satisfies the structure and framework components of the case and you will recognize how to navigate the case successfully.

If you are applying to Strategy& then you are probably applying to other strategy consulting firms too, this practice will be relevant to all the firms you apply to as they all use case interviews in their application process.

• 6.3 Apply Structure to Everything

The key requirement of a candidate in a case interview is the application of structure , specifically with a MECE approach. As mentioned above, you can even apply structure to the FIT questions and it is recommended you do so.

An example answer to the question ‘walk me through your CV’ would be to segment your experience into: 1) Experience relevant to consulting 2) Experience not relevant to consulting and then briefly cover the experience you have in each bucket. This shows you understand what consulting is and what is relevant and also a key skill of a consultant – structured thinking.

If you can demonstrate robust structured thinking in your interview , you will score highly.

• 7. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Strategy& consulting case interview process is a well-structured journey emphasizing analytical skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability . The firm's integration with PwC brings a comprehensive evaluation approach, focusing on values like integrity and teamwork. The 'super day' style interviews efficiently assess candidates, led by both junior and senior consultants.

The case interview follows a defined structure, challenging candidates with real-world scenarios and time-pressured tasks . Success requires mastering fast maths, consistent case interview practice, and applying a structured approach.

Overall, it's not just a hurdle, but an opportunity for candidates to showcase their abilities in line with Strategy&'s commitment to excellence and innovation in global strategy consulting.

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• 1. About Strategy&
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• 3. Strategy& Application Process

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Hacking the Case Interview

PwC (including Strategy&) interviews consist of case interviews, written case interviews, group case interviews, and behavioral or fit interview questions. The office and group that you are interviewing for will determine which of these types of interview questions you will get.

If you have an upcoming interview with PwC or Strategy&, we have you covered. In this article, we’ll go through in detail:

• PwC and Strategy& interview processes
• The 6 steps to solve any PwC (Strategy&) case interview
• PwC (Strategy&) case interview examples
• The PwC (Strategy&) group case interview
• The PwC (Strategy&) written case interview
• PwC (Strategy&) behavioral or fit interview questions
• Recommended PwC (Strategy&) case interview resources

If you’re looking for a step-by-step shortcut to learn case interviews quickly, enroll in our case interview course . These insider strategies from a former Bain interviewer helped 30,000+ land consulting offers while saving hundreds of hours of prep time.

PwC and Strategy& Interview Processes

Strategy& interview process.

If you are applying to Strategy&, the interview process typically consists of two rounds. Each round has two to three 45-minute interviews.

These interviews will be focused on case interviews and behavioral or fit interview questions. Roughly half of the time will be spent on the case interview. Your interviewers will try to save the last 5 to 10 minutes of each interview for your questions.

Here is what a Strategy& interview process could look like:

• Strategy& first round interview : Two 45-minute interviews. For both interviews, roughly 10 minutes will be spent on behavioral or fit questions, 30 minutes will be spent on the Strategy& case interview, and the last 5 minutes will be time for you to ask questions.
• Strategy& final round interview : Three 45-minute interviews. One interview will be more heavily focused on behavioral or fit interview questions. The other two interviews will be primarily focused on Strategy& case interviews.

It is important to know that Strategy& emphasizes behavioral and fit interview questions much more than the average consulting firm. You’ll spend a bit more time answering these questions than you would at firms such as Bain, BCG, Deloitte, or Accenture.

Interviewers want to ensure that candidates that are interviewing for Strategy& actually want to work there. They want to screen out candidates that are treating Strategy& as a backup firm to McKinsey, BCG, and Bain.

PwC Consulting Interview Process

If you are applying to Management Consulting,  Technology Consulting , or Risk Consulting, you may have an online assessment and up to three rounds of interviews.  

• PwC Assessment Test : online assessment used to evaluate cognitive skills and overall competency
• PwC first round interview : One 30-minute interview with a recruiter focused on behavioral or fit interview questions
• PwC second round interview : Two interviews focused on case interviews and behavioral or fit interview questions
• PwC third round interview : Three to five interviews focused on case interviews, behavioral or fit interview questions, a written case interview, and/or a group case interview

There is a lot of variability in the types of interviews you could get in your last round of interviews. Depending on the office and group, some candidates may get a written case interview or a group case interview. Others may just get normal case interviews.

The 6 Steps to Solve Any PwC (Strategy&) Case Interview

PwC and Strategy& case interviews are all candidate-led. This means that you will be expected to drive the direction of the case. You will suggest what areas to explore, what analyses to do, and what the next step should be.

On Strategy&’s case prep website , they state that there is no single correct way to answer a case. If you show your thought process and develop logical and reasonable conclusions, you will have successfully solved the case.

Follow these six steps to solve any case interview.

1. Understand the case

The case will begin with the interviewer giving you the case information. While the interviewer is speaking, make sure that you are taking meticulous notes on the most important pieces of information. Focus on understanding the context of the situation, the company, and the objective of the case.

2. Verify the objective

Understanding the business problem and objective of the case is the most important part of the case interview. Not addressing the right business question is the quickest way to fail a case interview.

Make sure that you ask clarifying questions to better understand the business situation and problem. Then, confirm that you understand the case objective with the interviewer. This ensures that you start the case on the right track.

3. Create a framework

Develop a framework to help you tackle the business problem. A framework is a tool that helps you structure and break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components. With a framework, you’ll be brainstorming different ideas and organizing them into different categories.

Afterwards, walk the interviewer through your framework. They may ask a few questions or provide some feedback to you.

For a complete guide on how to create tailored and unique frameworks for each case, check out our article on case interview frameworks .

4. Develop a hypothesis

After creating a framework, you should develop a hypothesis. A hypothesis is an educated guess on the answer based on the data and information that you have so far.

Your hypothesis does not need to be correct. You’ll be continuously testing and refining your hypothesis throughout the case. The purpose of having a hypothesis is to guide your analysis and ensure that you are spending your time answering the right questions.

5. Test your hypothesis

The majority of the case will be spent testing your hypothesis.

After stating your hypothesis, it is up to you to lead the direction of the case. Depending on the context of the case, you may want to ask for data to do some analysis. You may also want to explore qualitative questions that you have. As you uncover more information, your hypothesis will likely have to change. 

Sometimes, your hypothesis will be completely wrong and you’ll need to develop a completely new hypothesis to test. Other times, your hypothesis may be on the right track, but you’ll need to refine or narrow it down further.

Throughout the rest of the case, you’ll be answering a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Make sure that after each question, you explain how your answer impacts your hypothesis or answer to the case.

6. Deliver a recommendation

In the last step of the case interview, you’ll present your recommendation and provide the major reasons that support it. You do not need to recap everything that you have done in the case, so focus on summarizing only the facts that are most important.

It is also good practice to include potential next steps that you would take if you had more time or data. These can be areas of your framework that you did not have time to explore yet or lingering questions that you do not have great answers for.

PwC (Strategy&) Case Interview Examples

We've compiled examples of PwC and Strategy& case interviews below that were given to candidates in the past.

Example #1 : How can Royal Caribbean cruises double revenue over the next five years?

Example #2 : Your client is a national packaging manufacturing company that makes cardboard boxes in various sizes. How can they improve profitability?

Example #3 : The top two concrete suppliers in South America are considering a merger. Should they merge? What considerations would you think through when making this decision?

Example #4 : A fast food chain based in Alabama is considering introducing fresh meat hamburgers into their menu. They previously have only served hamburgers made from frozen meat patties. What will be the impact of introducing fresh meat hamburgers?

Example #5 : A construction company is considering increasing their prices for road maintenance services. Should they increase prices? If so, by how much should they increase prices by?

Example #6 : A national insurance company is looking for opportunities to cut costs. What recommendations would you have for them?

Example #7 : A prestigious undergraduate university in the northeast is considering launching online learning classes that would be available for students that are not enrolled in their on-campus classes. What considerations would you think through in order to determine if this is a good idea?

Example #8 : A local airline is considering adding alcoholic beverages to their menu of in-flight food and drink. What will be the impact on profitability for this business decision?

For more practice, check out our article on 23 MBA consulting casebooks with 700+ free practice cases .

The PwC (Strategy&) Group Case Interview

For some offices, PwC (Strategy&) uses a group case interview in their final round of interviews. This special type of case interview focuses on assessing how well you can collaborate and work with other people. Teamwork is an essential skill to have.

Here’s what you should expect:

• You’ll be put into a group with 3 to 5 other candidates
• The interviewer will hand out the case background materials
• You’ll have 10 to 15 minutes to review the materials and prepare
• The group will have an open discussion for 15 to 20 minutes
• During this discussion, interviewers will be observing candidates and will not interfere
• Afterwards, the interviewer will ask the group specific questions for 15 to 20 minutes

Your goal in a group case interview is to add value to the group. There are six different ways that you can do this:

• Lead or facilitate the discussion : You can propose what topics to discuss, the order they should be discussed in, and how much time should be allocated towards each topic. If the group gets off track, you can bring the group’s focus back together.
• Expand upon other people’s ideas : If a group member suggests a great idea or raises a good point, build upon it and make it even better.
• Synthesize information : You can summarize information that other people have said and reconcile different viewpoints and ideas together.
• Keep track of time : You can volunteer to keep track of time and make sure that the group is on track.
• Play devil’s advocate : You can help your group develop strong ideas by testing the team’s thinking by considering potential risks or downsides of their ideas.
• Take notes:  You can keep track of what other people are saying so that you can recall what has been discussed if any group members have questions.

An important thing to remember about group case interviews is to treat your group members as teammates instead of competition. This is not an exercise in which you are competing with others.

Interviewers are trying to determine whether you would be a great teammate. Multiple people or even all people in your group can receive job offers. Therefore, focus on adding value to the group rather than on making yourself look better than your group members.

For a full guide on group case interviews, check out our consulting group case interview step-by-step guide .

The PwC (Strategy&) Written Case Interview

For some offices, PwC (Strategy&) uses a written case interview in their final round of interviews. This special type of case interview focuses on assessing how well you can analyze information and communicate your insights.

• PwC (Strategy&) will provide you with case background material
• You will have an hour to review the material and prepare 3 to 5 slides
• You will have 30 minutes to present and discuss your recommendation with the interviewer, who will challenge your assumptions and ask follow-up questions

To solve any written case interview, follow these eight steps.

1. Understand the business problem and objective

The first step in completing a written case interview is to understand what the objective is. What is the primary business question you are trying to answer with the data and information provided?

2. Read the list of major questions

Some written case interviews will provide you with a list of 3 – 4 key questions that you will be expected to address or answer. Read through these questions first since these will be the questions that you will want to prioritize.

If the written case interview is more open-ended and does not provide you with a list of key questions, skip this step and move onto the next step.  

3. Skim the materials

Next, flip through the information packet that is provided to see what information is available. Identify what data you have and what data you do not have.

The goal in this step is not to read and analyze every slide. That would take too much time. Instead, by seeing what information exists, you will be able to better prioritize what you spend your time reading and analyzing.

4. Create a framework

Before you begin reading and analyzing the information in the slides in more detail, you should create a basic framework to help guide your analysis. If you are provided with a list of key questions or pre-filled slide templates, then this will likely be the foundation of your framework.

Otherwise, based on what information exists in the information packet, identify the three to four key questions you need to answer or investigate.

5. Read and analyze the material 

Afterwards, read and analyze the information that is relevant to each area of your framework. As you begin answering questions and drawing insights, make sure to write a one or two sentence summary. This will make it easier to decide on a recommendation later.

6. Decide on a recommendation

Review the list of key takeaways that you have summarized from answering all of the major questions in your framework. Decide on what recommendation these findings collectively support.

Remember that there is typically no right or wrong recommendation. As long as your recommendation is supported by data and evidence, you will be in great shape.

7. Create your slides

Once you have a recommendation, it is time to start filling in your slides. You should use the following structure when creating your slides:

• Slide 1: Present your recommendation and the three reasons that support it
• Slide 2: Present your first reason and the data that supports it
• Slide 3: Present your second reason and the data that supports it
• Slide 4: Present your third reason and the data that supports it
• Slide 5: Summarize everything that you’ve covered so far
• Slide 6: Propose potential next steps

8. Prepare for potential questions

If you have any time remaining, brainstorm potential questions the interviewer may ask you during your presentation. They may want to know how you performed your analysis or how you reached your conclusions.

Preparing for these potential questions will help your presentation go much more smoothly. You will also feel much more confident while presenting.

For a full guide on written case interviews, check out our consulting written case interview step-by-step guide .

PwC (Strategy&) Behavioral or Fit Interview Questions

In addition to case interviews, you will likely be asked a few behavioral or fit interview questions. There are ten questions that are most commonly asked.

1. Why are you interested in working at PwC or Strategy&?

How to answer: Have at least three reasons why you’re interested in working at PwC or Strategy&. You could mention that you loved the people that you have met from the company so far. You can talk about PwC’s massive global presence and expertise in nearly any industry or function. You can speak to how PwC provides strategy and implementation, so you can see the impact of your work.

2. Why do you want to work in consulting?

How to answer: Again, have three reasons why you’re interested in consulting. You could mention the fast career growth opportunity, the opportunity to develop soft and hard skills, or the level of impact that you can make by working with large companies on their most challenging issues.

3. Walk me through your resume

How to answer: Provide a concise summary of your work experience, starting with the most recent. Focus on emphasizing your most impressive and unique accomplishments. At the end, tie your experiences to why you are interested in consulting.

4. What is your proudest achievement?

How to answer: Choose your most impressive, unique, or memorable accomplishment. Structure your answer by providing information on the situation, the task, the actions you took, and the results of your work.

5. What is something that you are proud of that is not on your resume?

How to answer: This is a great opportunity to highlight an accomplishment that is not related to your professional work experience. Perhaps there is a non-profit that you volunteer at, a side project or business that you work on, or a hobby that you have won awards or recognition for. Choose something that is impressive and interesting.

6. Tell me about a time when you led a team.

How to answer: If possible, choose a time when you directly managed a person or a team. For this question and the following questions, make sure that you structure your answer. Structure your answer by providing information on the situation, the task, the actions you took, and the results of your work. This is known as the STAR method and is commonly used to answer behavioral or fit interview questions.

7. Give an example of a time when you faced conflict or a disagreement.

How to answer: When answering this question, focus on emphasizing the steps you took to resolve the conflict or disagreement. Speak to the interpersonal skills you had to use in order to mediate the situation. Interviewers want to know that you are a great mediator and that you can handle conflict in a constructive way.

8. Tell me about a time when you had to persuade someone.

How to answer: Choose a time when you were able to change someone’s mind. Focus on emphasizing the steps that you took to persuade that person and what impact and results this had. Interviewers want to know that you are a great communicator and a good people person.

9. Describe a time when you failed.

How to answer: Choose a time when you failed to meet a deadline or did not meet expectations. Focus on emphasizing what you learned from the experience and how you used that experience to deliver even better results in the next opportunity that you got. Interviewers want to see that you don’t get discouraged from failure and that you treat those experiences as learning opportunities.

10. What questions do you have for me?

How to answer: This is a great opportunity to get to know the interviewer on a more personal level. Ask them questions about their experience in consulting or their career. Express genuine interest in what they have to share and ask follow-up questions. The more you can get the interviewer talking about themself, the more likely they will have a positive impression of you.

For a step-by-step guide on how to best answer all of these questions and more, check out our complete guide on consulting behavioral interview questions .

Recommended PwC (Strategy&) Interview Resources

Here are the resources we recommend to land a PwC or Strategy& consulting offer:

For help landing consulting interviews

• Resume Review & Editing : Transform your resume into one that will get you multiple consulting interviews

For help passing case interviews

• Comprehensive Case Interview Course (our #1 recommendation): The only resource you need. Whether you have no business background, rusty math skills, or are short on time, this step-by-step course will transform you into a top 1% caser that lands multiple consulting offers.
• Case Interview Coaching : Personalized, one-on-one coaching with a former Bain interviewer.
• Hacking the Case Interview Book   (available on Amazon): Perfect for beginners that are short on time. Transform yourself from a stressed-out case interview newbie to a confident intermediate in under a week. Some readers finish this book in a day and can already tackle tough cases.
• The Ultimate Case Interview Workbook (available on Amazon): Perfect for intermediates struggling with frameworks, case math, or generating business insights. No need to find a case partner – these drills, practice problems, and full-length cases can all be done by yourself.

For help passing consulting behavioral & fit interviews

• Behavioral & Fit Interview Course : Be prepared for 98% of behavioral and fit questions in just a few hours. We'll teach you exactly how to draft answers that will impress your interviewer.

Land Multiple Consulting Offers

Complete, step-by-step case interview course. 30,000+ happy customers.

• The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview
• Consulting Career Secrets
• Cover Letter & Resume
• McKinsey Solve Game (Imbellus)
• BCG Online Case (+ Pymetrics, Spark Hire)
• Bain Aptitude Tests (SOVA, Pymetrics, HireVue)
• Kearney Recruitment Test
• BCG Cognitive Test Practice
• All-in-One Case Interview Preparation
• Industry Cheat Sheets
• Structuring & Brainstorming
• Data & Chart Interpretation
• Case Math Mastery
• McKinsey Interview Academy
• Brainteasers

Mastering Case Interview Frameworks in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Last Updated on August 14, 2024

In the competitive world of consulting recruiting , mastering case interviews is a crucial step towards landing a job at top firms like McKinsey , BCG , and Bain . Discovering how to structure case interviews in consulting is fundamental, as the foundation of successful performance lies in effectively tackling complex business problems. In 2024, with more challenging and creative cases, understanding how to craft a compelling case interview framework is more important than ever.

This article serves as a comprehensive case structure guide, diving deep into the art and science of structuring your analysis and providing you with essential insights into what a case interview framework entails, why it’s critical for your success, and the different strategies you can employ to impress your interviewers from the get-go.

Starting with an overview of what case interview frameworks are and their significance, we explore the nuances and provide essential case structuring tips that set apart winning strategies from the rest. We offer tips for acing consulting firm case interview frameworks. Whether you’re wondering about the types of frameworks that exist, what constitutes a robust case interview structure, or if memorizing frameworks is beneficial, we’ve got you covered.

This guide is based on our experience as McKinsey interviewers and cas coaches with more than 1600 case interview sessions conducted at the time of writing. It is designed to give you a head start in your case interview preparation, ensuring you’re well-equipped to structure your thoughts like a seasoned consultant.

By integrating key concepts with practical advice, this article is your ultimate guide to consulting case structure and acing case interviews in 2024. Stay tuned as we guide you on answering consulting structuring questions with confidence and tackle some of the most pressing consulting framework questions, helping you structure your approach in case interviews more effectively. We want to give you a head start by answering the following questions in this article:

• What is a case interview framework?
• Why do you need to structure your approach?
• Are there different types of frameworks?
• What makes a good case interview structure?
• Should you learn case interview frameworks by heart?
• How can you create frameworks from scratch using a first-principles approach?
• What is the best way to practice framework creation?
• How do you structure a McKinsey case interview? Is it different from candidate-led interviews?

This article is part of our consulting case interview series. For the other articles, please click below:

• Overview of case interviews: what is a consulting case interview?
• How to create a case interview framework (this article)
• How to ace case interview exhibit and chart interpretation
• How to ace case interview math questions

What is a Case Interview Framework?

A case interview structure is used to break the problem you are trying to solve for the client down into smaller problems or components. It is the roadmap you establish at the beginning of the interview that will guide your problem-solving approach throughout the case.

You are defining areas to analyze that help you understand where the problem is coming from or how to answer the question of a client.

In that sense, structuring your approach is the first important step in every case interview. Initially, the interviewer will tell you about the client’s situation and the problem they are asking you to solve. After playing back the prompt and asking clarification questions, you need to structure your approach and create a case interview framework.

Let’s look at one traditional example:

Our client is a beverage manufacturer and has seen declining profits over the last year. They have called us to investigate the issue and propose ways out of it. A typical case interview prompt (simplified)

For you as a candidate, getting the framework right is the first step to successfully acing the case. If you fail to propose a proper analytical structure, you will not be able to investigate the situation and find the root cause of the issue.

A case interview framework usually consists of a top layer and several sub-levels, where the top-level buckets cover the issue broadly, whereas the sub-level buckets identify more concrete areas to look at.

To illustrate, the most common and basic structure that would allow us to analyze the situation on top would be looking at:

Profit = Revenue – Cost

This high-level structure is used for profitability cases when you are tasked to solve an issue with the client’s profit development. The two buckets revenue and cost represent the top level. To analyze the problem properly, you would need to go deeper and figure out what sub-levels influence the variables you are looking at.

For instance, for our beverage manufacturer, you could look at cost and break it down into fixed cost and variable cost with a 3rd level of concrete areas to investigate:

It is important to tailor the structure and associated sub-levels to the case questions. Framework templates were en vogue 5-10 years ago and consulting firms have moved away from asking generic cases that would fit the frameworks taught by Case in Point or Victor Cheng (more on that below).

In terms of format, the best-practice approach to structuring a case is to build an issue tree with branches, which are split into several sub-branches (see the example below).

As with most other aspects of the case interview, mastering effective consulting interview frameworks and deconstructing problems is a skill that needs to be learned, internalized, and practiced to perform best during the interviews.

We’ll cover this in much more detail later in this article.

Why Do You Need a Framework to Structure Your Approach?

The initial structure you need to come up with serves three important purposes in a case interview.

Investigative roadmap

First, it is the roadmap you establish initially that guides your problem-solving throughout the case. Once you lay out your planned approach, you should go through each bucket or branch of your issue tree to find the issue(s) the client is facing or to evaluate the ideas you came up with to fit the needs of the client and then work on your recommendation(s). The case framework serves as the anchor you should stick to as you move through your analysis.

Communication device

Second, it is used as a communication device to guide the interviewer through your thought process and approach. Additionally, moving through the structure allows you to ask targeted questions to the interviewer about additional data or information on each point.

Analytical test

Third, coming up with a proper structure and communicating it well is a test in itself. The interviewer tries to understand how well you can tackle unfamiliar problems. They will evaluate your thinking, logic, analytical capabilities, and problem-solving prowess as well as communication skills.

Case Structuring Course and Drills

Learn how to structure any case, regardless of the problem, industry, or context with our first-principles approach to problem deconstruction and brainstorming. We use our McKinsey interviewer experience to teach you how to structure cases like a real consultant.

Includes 36 video lessons on structuring and brainstorming and 100 practice drills.

Different Types of Frameworks with Examples

Generally, two types of case frameworks exist, depending on the nature of the question.

Either you are asked to break a problem down into its parts and understand where an issue comes from to provide a recommendation (e.g. ”Our client is trying to understand why…?” ) or you are asked to answer a specific question ( ”Should our client engage in…?” ).

Figuring out a problem

A structure here is the starting point and anchor of your problem diagnostic.

First, you need to think about all potential problem areas, then drill down into each branch to figure out what is wrong exactly by collecting more information from the interviewer and exhibits; based on your probing you will receive information from the interviewer that you have to analyze qualitatively and quantitatively, then provide a recommendation in the end.

Answer a question

For these types of questions, a structure is a systematic analysis of a situation or comparison of options that you want to investigate on behalf of the client to help them with a specific goal or question.

For both types of structures, you should follow a hypothesis-driven approach, i.e. already having a clear vision of where the problem could be buried most likely or what approach or idea would best support the client’s goal.

Apart from knowing what frameworks are used for, what characteristics make a strong case interview structure?

Criteria of Strong Case Interview Frameworks

A good case interview framework follows several rules.

Let’s break them down into content requirements and principles.

Content requirements

An excellent structure is broad at the top level, goes into greater depth on the sub-levels, and consists of meaningful and insightful ideas.

• Breadth: How many buckets does your structure consist of at the top level? While in a profitability case, the top level is given, for many other cases you can expand your top level by several buckets ( Real MBB case question: ”What could be the reason our machines break down at different rates in different locations?” ).
• Depth: How deep do you go into each top-level idea and come up with levers/areas to look at below? How well can you support your top-level with the actual ideas that influence it?
• Innovation: How meaningful and insightful are your ideas? Create a mix of common components as well as more out-of-the-box answers. Tell the interviewer something they have not heard before.

Principles of success

Make sure that your structure adheres to the principles below.

• MECE-ness: Refers to a grouping principle for separating a set of ideas into subsets that are mutually exclusive (no overlaps between the different branches of the issue tree) and collectively exhaustive (covering all important aspects). It is used to break down problems into logical and clean buckets of analysis.
• Actionable: Your answer should only consist of ideas that you can exert influence on within the given time frame (e.g. if you are asked to come up with measures over the next year, everything beyond that should not be touched in your structure).
• Logically coherent: Top levels and sub-levels should be consistent within their level and across levels. They should stick to the same hierarchy of importance and logic (e.g. if you are comparing revenue and cost, they should be at the same level, and everything that influences the two should be below).
• Relevant: The content should be relevant to the case at hand, tailored to the client, and easy to follow and communicate. Avoid over-structuring your case. Find a few broad categories at the top and then break them down further.
• Hypothesis-driven: You should have a clear idea of where the problem is buried or what solution is best for the client from the start, and while moving through the structure and gathering additional information, that hypothesis should become clearer.

Memorizing Frameworks is the Worst Thing You Can Do

Upon beginning work with new clients, it becomes immediately evident when they’ve memorized standard frameworks, as this practice typically affects their early performance noticeably. It’s hard to fault them, given that prevalent case interview guidance and literature still advocate memorizing frameworks to apply or tweak across various cases.

Be aware that framework templates were applicable 15 years ago, in the era of Victor Cheng and Case in Point. McKinsey and other top-tier firms have long caught up on this and the cases you will get during the interviews are tailored in a way to test your creativity and ability to generate insights, not remember specific frameworks.

In fact, it will hurt you when you try to use a framework on a case that calls for a completely different approach. Also, it gives a false sense of security that will translate to stress once you figure out how your approach won’t work during the real interview – We have seen this so many times…

Your goal should be to master various framework creation methods, allowing you to build custom issue trees and frameworks, interpret charts , and perform math no matter the case’s context, industry, or function. Our approach teaches you this and trains your ability to come up with deep, broad, and insightful structures for each case individually.

Also, be aware that there is no typical McKinsey case interview framework, BCG case interview framework, or Bain case interview framework. All firms use a diverse set of cases, which are usually developed by each interviewer individually based on a real consulting project they have completed.

If you are looking for case interview examples, check out this article , where we have compiled a link list of all publicly available MBB and tier-2 consultancy cases.

Back to the frameworks: Memorizing frameworks for a case interview may seem like an effective strategy, but in reality, this practice is detrimental to your performance. McKinsey, BCG, Bain, and other top consulting firms want to see candidates come up with their own solutions and innovative approaches.

I want to show you why memorized frameworks like the ones from Case In Point or Victor Cheng do not work and supplement these with plenty of examples to bring the point across. In the end, I want to introduce you to my Structuring Drills course as well as my Case Interview Preparation book, The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview . Both resources are aimed at developing you into a world-class case interviewee.

Below are the top reasons why memorized frameworks and cookie-cutter approaches do not work.

No points for problem-solving

First, case interviews are designed to test your problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, not your ability to regurgitate memorized information. Frameworks are meant to be a guide, not a script. Using a memorized framework in an interview can make it obvious that you are not thinking critically about the problem at hand, which can make it difficult for you to impress the interviewer. Interviewers want to see insightful analytical constructs, which means that they need to be tailored, relevant, and concrete.

If you just use memorized buckets, you will score badly in terms of problem-solving. To see a real scoring sheet, go here .

Cases have become much more creative

Second, case interviews often involve unique and unpredictable scenarios. No two cases are the same, so a memorized framework may not apply to the specific problem you are presented with. Attempting to force a framework onto an unrelated problem can make it clear that you lack flexibility and the ability to adapt to new situations.

For instance, let’s look at a real McKinsey case example from a couple of years ago.

You are working with an operator of a specific type of machines. They break down at different rates at different locations. What factors can you think of why that would happen? Example of a McKinsey Case Interview Structure Questions

Which Victor Cheng framework or Cosentino ideas would you present here to the interviewer? There is not a single bucket that would work.

Let us look at an example answer for this prompt.

You limit your creativity

Third, using a memorized framework can limit your ability to think creatively. When you are focused on trying to fit the problem into a pre-existing framework, you may miss opportunities to come up with innovative solutions.

1% of candidates make it through the filter of MBB . You want to provide insights the interviewer has not heard before and not be just like the other 99% that fail to impress.

You have no rationale

Fourth, case interviews also test your ability to communicate and present your thought process effectively. When you are relying on a memorized framework, you may not be able to explain the reasoning behind your solutions and ideas. This can make it difficult for the interviewer to understand your thought process and evaluate your problem-solving skills.

Interviewers want to understand why you think a certain way, not just what you think. Memorizing frameworks completely kills your ability to support and defend your choices.

In conclusion, memorized frameworks can be detrimental to your performance in a case interview. Instead, it’s better to focus on developing your problem-solving, critical thinking, flexibility, creativity, and communication skills. These are the skills that are truly valued in case interviews and a business setting later on.

Let’s have a brief look at how you can become a better problem solver and create frameworks like an actual consultant.

Apply a First-Principles Approach to Frameworks

Consultants approach problems from a first-principles perspective. If you learn how to do the same, not only will you come across as an equal to them, not just another case interviewee, but your analytical lens and case performance will skyrocket. Adopt these innovative framework creation methods for case interviews.

First-principles thinking

At the core of your idea generation should be first principles thinking, which refers to the process of systematically deconstructing a problem or situation into its constituent parts in a MECE way. Only by following this approach can you identify where the issue in a case comes from and how big it is (the what), then dive deeper to understand the reason (the why) to eventually work on a solution (the how). First principles allow you to break a situation down into its core pieces and then put it back together.

For instance:

“What do we need to build an aircraft?”

• A factory (infrastructure)
• Tools and equipment
• Financial means

From there, you go into second and third-order considerations; for instance, for staff:

• Formal education and training
• Work experience
• # of people in total
• # of people for different areas (e.g., engines vs. wings)
• Supply of and demand for labor in the area
• Job advertisement
• Working conditions
• Remuneration and benefits

There are several ways you can employ this type of thinking for creating case interview frameworks. First, we look at the top level of your issue tree, the foundation of your problem-solving, and then explore in more depth the branches, all with a first principles perspective in mind.

Framework creation techniques

For most cases, you can focus on problem deconstruction from two angles: examining the components involved and understanding the process.

To illustrate, we’ll explore the example of improving customer satisfaction for an airline.

The component approach

When we dissect a problem through the lens of its components, we look at the static elements that make up the situation. For an airline, this could include the tangible and intangible assets that affect a customer’s experience. These components might encompass the aircraft itself (comfort, cleanliness, amenities), the staff (friendliness, efficiency), the booking system (ease of use, flexibility), and ancillary services (lounge access, on-board meals).

By examining each component individually, you can identify potential areas for improvement. For example, an analysis might reveal that enhancing the on-board meal quality could significantly boost overall customer satisfaction. This approach requires a deep dive into each element, assessing its current state, impact on the customer journey, and potential for optimization.

The process approach

Alternatively, examining the problem through a process lens involves mapping out the sequence of steps a customer takes, from booking a flight to reaching their destination. This perspective allows you to identify pain points and opportunities for enhancement at each stage of the customer journey.

For instance, you might discover that the check-in process is a significant bottleneck, causing frustration and setting a negative tone for the journey. By streamlining this process, perhaps through more efficient use of technology or additional staff training, you could improve the overall customer experience, thereby increasing satisfaction.

Once you have generated your top-level buckets, expand those ideas into more concrete ideas on the levels below. For instance, from a component perspective, you might have identified staff as an area to investigate.

Next, think about what type of staff a typical passenger encounters like booking agents, check-in staff, lounge personnel, cabin crew, etc. Voila, you have created the most concrete and final level of your analytical framework structure.

Try it out yourself when you encounter the next case problem and think about it either from a process or component perspective, then dive deeper.

While it might be harder initially to use this approach of creating frameworks from scratch, the outcome over time always beats memorization. Hence, we do not recommend any other way to learn and practice frameworks.

Practicing Case Interview Framework Creation and Problem Deconstruction

Developing a strong foundation in creating case interview frameworks is essential for success in consulting interviews. This skill is not about memorizing a set of frameworks but understanding how to construct them from scratch based on the problem at hand. Here’s how you can hone this ability:

1. Master content creation techniques for problem deconstruction : Our course is designed to equip you with the right techniques for breaking down complex problems into manageable parts. We focus on first principles thinking and an intuitive way of breaking down problems, enabling you to understand the core elements of any issue you’re presented with, which is crucial for custom framework creation.

2. Practice with a variety of cases : Exposure to a wide range of case scenarios is key. Our library includes over 100 practice cases, complete with detailed answer keys and explanations. This diverse set of examples will not only improve your ability to adapt your framework to different problems but also enhance your problem-solving speed and efficiency.

3. Regularly read business publications and magazines : Keeping up-to-date with the latest in the business world is invaluable. This habit sharpens your business acumen, enriches your understanding of current market trends, and deepens your industry knowledge, all of which are critical when you need to tailor your frameworks to specific contexts.

4. Understand basic business concepts and terminology : A solid grasp of fundamental business concepts and jargon is non-negotiable. This foundational knowledge ensures you can speak the language of business fluently, making it easier to structure your thoughts and communicate effectively during the case interview.

Remember, the goal is not to memorize frameworks but to learn how to construct them dynamically as per the needs of the case. This approach ensures that your frameworks are always tailored, insightful, and directly relevant to the problem you’re solving.

Also, do not forget that creating the structure at the beginning of the case is just the first step. There are also other elements to consider in a consulting interview preparation plan .

Case Interview Framework in McKinsey Interviews

Since the McKinsey interview is interviewer-led, there is an extra emphasis on the structuring part.

At the core, McKinsey wants to see creative ideas communicated in a structured manner, the more exhaustive the better. Your goal should be to come up with a tailored and creative answer that fits the question.

In a McKinsey interview, you can take up to 2 minutes to draft your structure, IF the structure you come up with is strong and

• hits all the key points that the firm wants to see and
• is communicated in the right way.

A big issue I see with coaching candidates is that they take too little time to structure their thoughts because they feel pressured to be quick rather than exhaustive and creative.

An additional 30 seconds can often make the difference between a bad structure and a good one or a good one and an excellent one. So my battle-tested advice is to get rid of this time-pressure mindset, especially in a McKinsey interview.

Now for the content of the structure, there is no right or wrong answer. Some answers are better than others because they are

• hypothesis-driven
• follow a strong communication (MECE, top-down, signposted)

That being said, there is no 100% that you can reach or a one-and-only solution/ answer. It is important that your answers display the characteristics specified above and are supported well with arguments.

Also different from other firms, you can take up to roughly 5-6 minutes to present your structure, your qualifications, and hypotheses. This is due to the interviewer-led format that McK employs. The firm wants to see exhaustive and creative approaches to specific problems.

Again, this only applies if everything you say

• adds value to the problem analysis
• is well qualified
• includes a detailed discussion of your hypotheses at the end

The difference in format and way of answering a question is the reason why I recommend preparing differently for McKinsey interviews vs. other consultancies’ interviews.

Read more about the McKinsey interview process and the McKinsey case interview specifically.

We Help You Draft Frameworks and Communicate Them Well

I have seen memorized and cookie-cutter frameworks destroy many candidates’ performance and chances to get an offer for many years now. The only issue that is bigger than that is the typical candidate’s ability to handle case math ( but that is for another time ).

To conquer that and many other things that I think are wrong with today’s standard literature on case interviews, I wrote The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview . The book is available on Amazon and covers frameworks, case structuring, and brainstorming in great depth. It teaches you how to think and not to memorize faulty frameworks (among 340+ pages of other valuable case interview content).

Once you have understood how to tackle a case structure, you can practice with the Case Structuring Course and Drills here on StrategyCase.com.

We have specialized in placing people from all walks of life with different backgrounds into top consulting firms, both as generalist hires as well as specialized hires and experts. As former McKinsey consultants and interview experts, we focus on teaching the best habits and strategies to ace every case interview, including idea generation, problem-solving, and brainstorming, all from a first-principles perspective.

We can help you by

• tailoring your resume and cover letter to meet consulting firms’ highest standards
• showing you how to pass the different online assessments and tests for McKinsey , BCG , and Bain
• showing you how to ace McKinsey interviews and the PEI with our video academy
• coaching you in our 1-on-1 sessions to become an excellent case solver and impress with your fit answers (90% success rate after 5 sessions)
• preparing your math to be bulletproof for every case interview
• helping you structure creative and complex frameworks for case interviews
• teaching you how to interpret charts and exhibits like a consultant
• providing you with cheat sheets and overviews for 27 industries .

Reach out to us if you have any questions! We are happy to help and offer a tailored program to help you break into consulting.

To improve your skills in all areas of the interview, check out some of our targeted offers below.

Frequently Asked Questions about Case Interview Frameworks

In more than 1600 case interview sessions at the time of editing this article, several questions have come up frequently from my clients. To assist you in this critical phase of your case interview preparation, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about case interview frameworks.

These questions aim to shed light on the nuances of preparing for and excelling in case interviews, providing you with insights to enhance your understanding and skills.

How do specific industries impact the creation of case interview frameworks? Industries play a crucial role in shaping the choice of case interview framework components, specifically at the lower levels. At the top level, most companies are built in the same way, regardless if they are offering a product or a service. The main difference to tailor it to the industry usually happens on the lower levels of the framework. For instance, while both an airline and a bookstore generate revenue, which is comprised of price times quantity, the pricing for an airline works very differently (e.g., ticket price, booking fee, seat allocation fee, baggage allowance fee, etc).

Can you provide real-life examples of case interview questions from top consulting firms and how to apply frameworks to them? While specific real-life examples are proprietary, many consulting firms publish practice cases on their websites. These can serve as a valuable resource for understanding how to apply frameworks to solve common business problems, with each case typically demonstrating the application of different analytical frameworks. We have collected many free practice cases from different firms here .

What are the common mistakes candidates make when structuring their approach in case interviews, and how can they avoid them? Common mistakes include overly relying on memorized frameworks without creating new ones for the specific case, failing to listen actively to the interviewer’s hints, and neglecting to structure answers in a MECE (mutually exclusive, collectively exhaustive) manner. Avoid these by practicing flexibility, active listening, and ensuring your approach is tailored and comprehensive.

How has the approach to case interviews and the use of frameworks changed over the past decade? The approach has shifted towards evaluating candidates’ ability to think creatively and adapt frameworks dynamically rather than relying solely on memorized structures. This change reflects the consulting industry’s need for innovative problem solvers who can navigate complex and evolving business landscapes.

Are there any differences in how frameworks should be applied in virtual versus in-person case interviews? The core principles remain the same, but virtual interviews require candidates to be even more clear and structured in their communication , given the lack of physical presence. Ensuring technical setup is optimal and practicing verbalizing your thought process can help bridge the gap.

What role does creativity play in structuring case interviews, and how can candidates balance it with the use of standard frameworks? Creativity is crucial for developing tailored and insightful frameworks that go beyond standard responses. Candidates should not use standard frameworks but explore creative angles and solutions to demonstrate their unique problem-solving abilities.

How can non-business background candidates quickly grasp the concept of case interview frameworks? Non-business candidates should start with foundational problem-solving practices and business concepts and practice applying them to diverse case scenarios. Leveraging resources like business publications, online courses , and practice cases can accelerate their understanding and application of case frameworks.

What are the interviewers’ perspectives on the use of frameworks, and what do they look for in a candidate’s approach? Interviewers seek candidates who can create their own frameworks flexibly and creatively, showing an understanding of the underlying business principles. They value clarity, logical structuring, and the ability to derive actionable insights tailored to the specific case. Interviewers usually do not pass candidates who use memorized frameworks that do not fit the case.

How can candidates effectively practice and improve their framework structuring skills? Practice is key. Engaging in mock interviews, analyzing case studies, and receiving feedback from peers or mentors can greatly improve your ability to structure effective frameworks. Additionally, regularly challenging yourself with new and diverse case scenarios can build adaptability and depth in problem-solving. If frameworks are one of your key development areas, do not waste time going through full cases. Rather, work on individual drills back to back to create a habit of deconstructing problems accurately and swiftly.

What are some advanced techniques for customizing frameworks to fit unique case interview scenarios? To customize frameworks for unique case interview scenarios, focus on deconstructing the problem using first principles thinking. Break down the issue into its fundamental components or underlying steps to understand its structure. This approach enables you to create a tailored framework that directly addresses the specificities of the scenario. Apply relevant industry insights and business sense to enhance your analysis. Begin with a clear, strong hypothesis to steer your investigation and framework construction, ensuring that every part of your framework is directly relevant to unraveling the core problem at hand.

Do you have a framework-related question or struggle? Reach out to us in the comments below and we are happy to help!

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Florian spent 5 years with McKinsey as a senior consultant. He is an experienced consulting interviewer and problem-solving coach, having interviewed 100s of candidates in real and mock interviews. He started StrategyCase.com to make top-tier consulting firms more accessible for top talent, using tailored and up-to-date know-how about their recruiting. He ranks as the most successful consulting case and fit interview coach, generating more than 500 offers with MBB, tier-2 firms, Big 4 consulting divisions, in-house consultancies, and boutique firms through direct coaching of his clients over the last 3.5 years. His books “The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview” and “Consulting Career Secrets” are available via Amazon.

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What Is a Case Study? How to Write, Examples, and Template

In this post

How to write a case study

Case study template, case study examples, types of case studies, what are the benefits of case studies , what are the limitations of case studies , case study vs. testimonial.

In today's marketplace, conveying your product's value through a compelling narrative is crucial to genuinely connecting with your customers.

Your business can use marketing analytics tools to understand what customers want to know about your product. Once you have this information, the next step is to showcase your product and its benefits to your target audience. This strategy involves a mix of data, analysis, and storytelling. Combining these elements allows you to create a narrative that engages your audience. So, how can you do this effectively?

What is a case study? 

A case study is a powerful tool for showcasing a business's success in helping clients achieve their goals. It's a form of storytelling that details real-world scenarios where a business implemented its solutions to deliver positive results for a client.

In this article, we explore the concept of a case study , including its writing process, benefits, various types, challenges, and more.

Understanding how to write a case study is an invaluable skill. You'll need to embrace decision-making – from deciding which customers to feature to designing the best format to make them as engaging as possible.  This can feel overwhelming in a hurry, so let's break it down.

Step 1: Reach out to the target persona

If you've been in business for a while, you have no shortage of happy customers. But w ith limited time and resources, you can't choose everyone.  So, take some time beforehand to flesh out your target buyer personas. 

Once you know precisely who you're targeting, go through your stable of happy customers to find a buyer representative of the audience you're trying to reach. The closer their problems, goals, and industries align, the more your case study will resonate.

What if you have more than one buyer persona? No problem. This is a common situation for companies because buyers comprise an entire committee. You might be marketing to procurement experts, executives, engineers, etc. Try to develop a case study tailored to each key persona. This might be a long-term goal, and that's fine. The better you can personalize the experience for each stakeholder, the easier it is to keep their attention.  

Here are a few considerations to think about before research:

• Products/services of yours the customer uses (and how familiar they are with them)
• The customer's brand recognition in the industry
• Whether the results they've achieved are specific and remarkable
• Whether they've switched from a competitor's product/service
• How closely aligned they are with your target audience

These items are just a jumping-off point as you develop your criteria.  Once you have a list, run each customer through it to determine your top targets. Approach the ones on the top (your "dream" case study subjects) and work your way down as needed.

Who to interview

You should consider interviewing top-level managers or executives because those are high-profile positions. But consider how close they are to your product and its results.

Focusing on an office manager or engineer who uses your product daily would be better. Look for someone with a courtside view of the effects.

The ways to request customer participation in case studies can vary, but certain principles can improve your chances:

• Make it easy for customers to work with you, respecting their valuable time. Be well-prepared and minimize their involvement.
• Emphasize how customers will benefit through increased publicity, revenue opportunities, or recognition for their success. 
• Acknowledge their contributions and showcase their achievements.
• Standardizing the request process with a script incorporating these principles can help your team consistently secure case study approvals and track performance.

Step 2: Prepare for the interview

Case study interviews are like school exams. The more prepared you are for them, the better they turn out. Preparing thoroughly also shows participants that you value their time. You don't waste precious minutes rehashing things you should have already known. You focus on getting the information you need as efficiently as possible.

You can conduct your case study interview in multiple formats, from exchanging emails to in-person interviews. This isn't a trivial decision.  As you'll see in the chart below, each format has its unique advantages and disadvantages. 

You'll also have to consider who will ask and answer the questions during your case study interview. It's wise to consider this while considering the case study format.  The number of participants factors into which format will work best. Pulling off an in-person interview becomes much harder if you're trying to juggle four or five people's busy schedules. Try a video conference instead.

Before interviewing your case study participant, it is crucial to identify the specific questions that need to be asked.  It's essential to thoroughly evaluate your collaboration with the client and understand how your product's contributions impact the company. 

Remember that structuring your case study is akin to crafting a compelling narrative. To achieve this, follow a structured approach:

• Beginning of your story. Delve into the customer's challenge that ultimately led them to do business with you. What were their problems like? What drove them to make a decision finally? Why did they choose you?
• The middle of the case study.  Your audience also wants to know about the experience of working with you. Your customer has taken action to address their problems. What happened once you got on board?
• An ending that makes you the hero.  Describe the specific results your company produced for the customer. How has the customer's business (and life) changed once they implemented your solution?

Sample questions for the case study interview

If you're preparing for a case study interview, here are some sample case study research questions to help you get started:

• What challenges led you to seek a solution?
• When did you realize the need for immediate action? Was there a tipping point?
• How did you decide on the criteria for choosing a B2B solution, and who was involved?
• What set our product or service apart from others you considered?
• How was your experience working with us post-purchase?
• Were there any pleasant surprises or exceeded expectations during our collaboration?
• How smoothly did your team integrate our solution into their workflows?
• How long before you started seeing positive results?
• How have you benefited from our products or services?
• How do you measure the value our product or service provides?

Step 3: Conduct the interview

Preparing for case study interviews can be different from everyday conversations. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Create a comfortable atmosphere.  Before diving into the discussion, talk about their business and personal interests. Ensure everyone is at ease, and address any questions or concerns.
• Prioritize key questions.  Lead with your most crucial questions to respect your customer's time. Interview lengths can vary, so starting with the essentials ensures you get the vital information.
• Be flexible.  Case study interviews don't have to be rigid. If your interviewee goes "off script," embrace it. Their spontaneous responses often provide valuable insights.
• Record the interview.  If not conducted via email, ask for permission to record the interview. This lets you focus on the conversation and capture valuable quotes without distractions.

Step 4: Figure out who will create the case study

When creating written case studies for your business, deciding who should handle the writing depends on cost, perspective, and revisions.

Outsourcing might be pricier, but it ensures a professionally crafted outcome. On the other hand, in-house writing has its considerations, including understanding your customers and products. 

Technical expertise and equipment are needed for video case studies, which often leads companies to consider outsourcing due to production and editing costs. 

Tip: When outsourcing work, it's essential to clearly understand pricing details to avoid surprises and unexpected charges during payment.

Step 5: Utilize storytelling

Understanding and applying storytelling elements can make your case studies unforgettable, offering a competitive edge. 

Source: The Framework Bank

Every great study follows a narrative arc (also called a "story arc"). This arc represents how a character faces challenges, struggles against raising stakes, and encounters a formidable obstacle before the tension resolves.

In a case study narrative, consider:

• Exposition. Provide background information about the company, revealing their "old life" before becoming your customer.
• Inciting incident. Highlight the problem that drove the customer to seek a solution, creating a sense of urgency.
• Obstacles (rising action). Describe the customer's journey in researching and evaluating solutions, building tension as they explore options.
• Midpoint. Explain what made the business choose your product or service and what set you apart.
• Climax. Showcase the success achieved with your product.
• Denouement. Describe the customer's transformed business and end with a call-to-action for the reader to take the next step.

Step 6: Design the case study

The adage "Don't judge a book by its cover" is familiar, but people tend to do just that quite often!

A poor layout can deter readers even if you have an outstanding case study. To create an engaging case study, follow these steps:

• Craft a compelling title. Just like you wouldn't read a newspaper article without an eye-catching headline, the same goes for case studies. Start with a title that grabs attention.
• Organize your content. Break down your content into different sections, such as challenges, results, etc. Each section can also include subsections. This case study approach divides the content into manageable portions, preventing readers from feeling overwhelmed by lengthy blocks of text.
• Conciseness is key. Keep your case study as concise as possible. The most compelling case studies are precisely long enough to introduce the customer's challenge, experience with your solution, and outstanding results. Prioritize clarity and omit any sections that may detract from the main storyline.
• Utilize visual elements. To break up text and maintain reader interest, incorporate visual elements like callout boxes, bulleted lists, and sidebars.
• Include charts and images. Summarize results and simplify complex topics by including pictures and charts. Visual aids enhance the overall appeal of your case study.
• Embrace white space. Avoid overwhelming walls of text to prevent reader fatigue. Opt for plenty of white space, use shorter paragraphs, and employ subsections to ensure easy readability and navigation.
• Enhance video case studies. In video case studies, elements like music, fonts, and color grading are pivotal in setting the right tone. Choose music that complements your message and use it strategically throughout your story. Carefully select fonts to convey the desired style, and consider how lighting and color grading can influence the mood. These elements collectively help create the desired tone for your video case study.

Step 7: Edits and revisions

Once you've finished the interview and created your case study, the hardest part is over. Now's the time for editing and revision. This might feel frustrating for impatient B2B marketers, but it can turn good stories into great ones.

Ideally, you'll want to submit your case study through two different rounds of editing and revisions:

• Internal review. Seek feedback from various team members to ensure your case study is captivating and error-free. Gather perspectives from marketing, sales, and those in close contact with customers for well-rounded insights. Use patterns from this feedback to guide revisions and apply lessons to future case studies.
• Customer feedback. Share the case study with customers to make them feel valued and ensure accuracy. Let them review quotes and data points, as they are the "heroes" of the story, and their logos will be prominently featured. This step maintains positive customer relationships.

Case study mistakes to avoid

• Ensure easy access to case studies on your website.
• Spotlight the customer, not just your business.
• Tailor each case study to a specific audience.
• Avoid excessive industry jargon in your content.

Step 8: Publishing

Take a moment to proofread your case study one more time carefully. Even if you're reasonably confident you've caught all the errors, it's always a good idea to check. Your case study will be a valuable marketing tool for years, so it's worth the investment to ensure it's flawless. Once done, your case study is all set to go!

Consider sharing a copy of the completed case study with your customer as a thoughtful gesture. They'll likely appreciate it; some may want to keep it for their records. After all, your case study wouldn't have been possible without their help, and they deserve to see the final product.

Where you publish your case study depends on its role in your overall marketing strategy. If you want to reach as many people as possible with your case study, consider publishing it on your website and social media platforms. 

Tip: Some companies prefer to keep their case studies exclusive, making them available only to those who request them. This approach is often taken to control access to valuable information and to engage more deeply with potential customers who express specific interests. It can create a sense of exclusivity and encourage interested parties to engage directly with the company.

Step 9: Case study distribution

When sharing individual case studies, concentrate on reaching the audience with the most influence on purchasing decisions

Here are some common distribution channels to consider:

• Sales teams. Share case studies to enhance customer interactions, retention , and upselling among your sales and customer success teams. Keep them updated on new studies and offer easily accessible formats like PDFs or landing page links.
• Company website. Feature case studies on your website to establish authority and provide valuable information to potential buyers. Organize them by categories such as location, size, industry, challenges, and products or services used for effective presentation.
• Events. Use live events like conferences and webinars to distribute printed case study copies, showcase video case studies at trade show booths, and conclude webinars with links to your case study library. This creative approach blends personal interactions with compelling content.
• Industry journalists. Engage relevant industry journalists to gain media coverage by identifying suitable publications and journalists covering related topics. Building relationships is vital, and platforms like HARO (Help A Reporter Out) can facilitate connections, especially if your competitors have received coverage before.

Want to learn more about Marketing Analytics Software? Explore Marketing Analytics products.

It can seem daunting to transform the information you've gathered into a cohesive narrative.  We’ve created a versatile case study template that can serve as a solid starting point for your case study.

With this template, your business can explore any solutions offered to satisfied customers, covering their background, the factors that led them to choose your services, and their outcomes.

The template boasts a straightforward design, featuring distinct sections that guide you in effectively narrating your and your customer's story. However, remember that limitless ways to showcase your business's accomplishments exist.

To assist you in this process, here's a breakdown of the recommended sections to include in a case study:

• Title.  Keep it concise. Create a brief yet engaging project title summarizing your work with your subject. Consider your title like a newspaper headline; do it well, and readers will want to learn more. 
• Subtitle . Use this section to elaborate on the achievement briefly. Make it creative and catchy to engage your audience.
• Executive summary.  Use this as an overview of the story, followed by 2-3 bullet points highlighting key success metrics.
• Challenges and objectives. This section describes the customer's challenges before adopting your product or service, along with the goals or objectives they sought to achieve.
• How product/service helped.  A paragraph explaining how your product or service addressed their problem.
• Testimonials.  Incorporate short quotes or statements from the individuals involved in the case study, sharing their perspectives and experiences.
• Supporting visuals.  Include one or two impactful visuals, such as graphs, infographics, or highlighted metrics, that reinforce the narrative.
• Call to action (CTA).  If you do your job well, your audience will read (or watch) your case studies from beginning to end. They are interested in everything you've said. Now, what's the next step they should take to continue their relationship with you? Give people a simple action they can complete. 

Case studies are proven marketing strategies in a wide variety of B2B industries. Here are just a few examples of a case study:

• Amazon Web Services, Inc.  provides companies with cloud computing platforms and APIs on a metered, pay-as-you-go basis. This case study example illustrates the benefits Thomson Reuters experienced using AWS.
• LinkedIn Marketing Solutions combines captivating visuals with measurable results in the case study created for BlackRock. This case study illustrates how LinkedIn has contributed to the growth of BlackRock's brand awareness over the years. 
• Salesforce , a sales and marketing automation SaaS solutions provider, seamlessly integrates written and visual elements to convey its success stories with Pepe Jeans. This case study effectively demonstrates how Pepe Jeans is captivating online shoppers with immersive and context-driven e-commerce experiences through Salesforce.
• HubSpot offers a combination of sales and marketing tools. Their case study demonstrates the effectiveness of its all-in-one solutions. These typically focus on a particular client's journey and how HubSpot helped them achieve significant results.

There are two different types of case studies that businesses might utilize:

Written case studies 

Written case studies offer readers a clear visual representation of data, which helps them quickly identify and focus on the information that matters most. 

Printed versions of case studies find their place at events like trade shows, where they serve as valuable sales collateral to engage prospective clients.  Even in the digital age, many businesses provide case studies in PDF format or as web-based landing pages, improving accessibility for their audience. 

Note: Landing pages , in particular, offer the flexibility to incorporate rich multimedia content, including images, charts, and videos. This flexibility in design makes landing pages an attractive choice for presenting detailed content to the audience.

Written case study advantages

Here are several significant advantages to leveraging case studies for your company:

• Hyperlink accessibility.  Whether in PDF or landing page format, written case studies allow for embedded hyperlinks, offering prospects easy access to additional information and contact forms.
• Flexible engagement.  Unlike video case studies, which may demand in-person arrangements, written case studies can be conducted via phone or video streaming, reducing customer commitment and simplifying scheduling.
• Efficient scanning . Well-structured written case studies with a scannable format cater to time-strapped professionals. Charts and callout boxes with key statistics enhance the ease of information retrieval.
• Printable for offline use.  Written case studies can be effortlessly printed and distributed at trade shows, sales meetings, and live events. This tangible format accommodates those who prefer physical materials and provides versatility in outreach, unlike video content, which is less portable.

Written case study disadvantages

Here are some drawbacks associated with the use of case studies:

• Reduced emotional impact.  Written content lacks the emotional punch of live video testimonials, which engage more senses and emotions, making a stronger connection.
• Consider time investment.  Creating a compelling case study involves editing, proofreading, and design collaboration, with multiple revisions commonly required before publication.
• Challenges in maintaining attention.  Attention spans are short in today's ad-saturated world. Using graphics, infographics, and videos more often is more powerful to incite the right emotions in customers.

Video case studies

Video case studies are the latest marketing trend. Unlike in the past, when video production was costly, today's tools make it more accessible for users to create and edit their videos. However, specific technical requirements still apply.

Like written case studies, video case studies delve into a specific customer's challenges and how your business provides solutions. Yet, the video offers a more profound connection by showcasing the person who faced and conquered the problem.

Video case studies can boost brand exposure when shared on platforms like YouTube. For example, Slack's engaging case study video with Sandwich Video illustrates how Slack transformed its workflow and adds humor, which can be challenging in written case studies focused on factual evidence.

Source : YouTube

This video case study has garnered nearly a million views on YouTube.

Video case study advantages

Here are some of the top advantages of video case studies. While video testimonials take more time, the payoff can be worth it. 

• Humanization and authenticity.  Video case studies connect viewers with real people, adding authenticity and fostering a stronger emotional connection.
• Engaging multiple senses.  They engage both auditory and visual senses, enhancing credibility and emotional impact. Charts, statistics, and images can also be incorporated.
• Broad distribution.  Videos can be shared on websites, YouTube, social media, and more, reaching diverse audiences and boosting engagement, especially on social platforms.

Video case study disadvantages

Before fully committing to video testimonials, consider the following:

• Technical expertise and equipment.  Video production requires technical know-how and equipment, which can be costly. Skilled video editing is essential to maintain a professional image. While technology advances, producing amateurish videos may harm your brand's perception.
• Viewer convenience.  Some prospects prefer written formats due to faster reading and ease of navigation. Video typically requires sound, which can be inconvenient for viewers in specific settings. Many people may not have headphones readily available to watch your content.
• Demand on case study participants.  On-camera interviews can be time-consuming and location-dependent, making scheduling challenging for case study participants. Additionally, being on screen for a global audience may create insecurities and performance pressure.
• Comfort on camera.  Not everyone feels at ease on camera. Nervousness or a different on-screen persona can impact the effectiveness of the testimonial, and discovering this late in the process can be problematic.

Written or video case studies: Which is right for you?

Now that you know the pros and cons of each, how do you choose which is right for you?

One of the most significant factors in doing video case studies can be the technical expertise and equipment required for a high level of production quality. Whether you have the budget to do this in-house or hire a production company can be one of the major deciding factors.

Still, written or video doesn't have to be an either-or decision. Some B2B companies are using both formats. They can complement each other nicely, minimizing the downsides mentioned above and reaching your potential customers where they prefer.

Let's say you're selling IT network security. What you offer is invaluable but complicated. You could create a short (three- or four-minute) video case study to get attention and touch on the significant benefits of your services. This whets the viewer's appetite for more information, which they could find in a written case study that supplements the video.

Should you decide to test the water in video case studies, test their effectiveness among your target audience. See how well they work for your company and sales team. And, just like a written case study, you can always find ways to improve your process as you continue exploring video case studies.

Case studies offer several distinctive advantages, making them an ideal tool for businesses to market their products to customers. However, their benefits extend beyond these qualities. 

Here's an overview of all the advantages of case studies:

Valuable sales support

Case studies serve as a valuable resource for your sales endeavors. Buyers frequently require additional information before finalizing a purchase decision. These studies provide concrete evidence of your product or service's effectiveness, assisting your sales representatives in closing deals more efficiently, especially with customers with lingering uncertainties.

Validating your value

Case studies serve as evidence of your product or service's worth or value proposition , playing a role in building trust with potential customers. By showcasing successful partnerships, you make it easier for prospects to place trust in your offerings. This effect is particularly notable when the featured customer holds a reputable status.

Unique and engaging content

By working closely with your customer success teams, you can uncover various customer stories that resonate with different prospects. Case studies allow marketers to shape product features and benefits into compelling narratives. 

Each case study's distinctiveness, mirroring the uniqueness of every customer's journey, makes them a valuable source of relatable and engaging content. Storytelling possesses the unique ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, a dimension that statistics alone often cannot achieve. 

Spotlighting valuable customers

Case studies provide a valuable platform for showcasing your esteemed customers. Featuring them in these studies offers a chance to give them visibility and express your gratitude for the partnership, which can enhance customer loyalty . Depending on the company you are writing about, it can also demonstrate the caliber of your business.

Now is the time to get SaaS-y news and entertainment with our 5-minute newsletter,   G2 Tea , featuring inspiring leaders, hot takes, and bold predictions. Subscribe below!

It's important to consider limitations when designing and interpreting the results of case studies. Here's an overview of the limitations of case studies:

Challenges in replication

Case studies often focus on specific individuals, organizations, or situations, making generalizing their findings to broader populations or contexts challenging. 

Time-intensive process

Case studies require a significant time investment. The extensive data collection process and the need for comprehensive analysis can be demanding, especially for researchers who are new to this method.

Potential for errors

Case studies can be influenced by memory and judgment, potentially leading to inaccuracies. Depending on human memory to reconstruct a case's history may result in variations and potential inconsistencies in how individuals recall past events. Additionally, bias may emerge, as individuals tend to prioritize what they consider most significant, which could limit their consideration of alternative perspectives.

Challenges in verification

Confirming results through additional research can present difficulties. This complexity arises from the need for detailed and extensive data in the initial creation of a case study. Consequently, this process requires significant effort and a substantial amount of time.

While looking at case studies, you may have noticed a quote. This type of quote is considered a testimonial, a key element of case studies.

If a customer's quote proves that your brand does what it says it will or performs as expected, you may wonder: 'Aren't customer testimonials and case studies the same thing?' Not exactly.

Testimonials are brief endorsements designed to establish trust on a broad scale. In contrast, case studies are detailed narratives that offer a comprehensive understanding of how a product or service addresses a specific problem, targeting a more focused audience. 

Crafting case studies requires more resources and a structured approach than testimonials. Your selection between the two depends on your marketing objectives and the complexity of your product or service.

Case in point!

Case studies are among a company's most effective tools. You're  well on your way to mastering them.

Today's buyers are tackling much of the case study research methodology independently. Many are understandably skeptical before making a buying decision. By connecting them with multiple case studies, you can prove you've gotten the results you say you can. There's hardly a better way to boost your credibility and persuade them to consider your solution.

Case study formats and distribution methods might change as technology evolves. However, the fundamentals that make them effective—knowing how to choose subjects, conduct interviews, and structure everything to get attention—will serve you for as long as you're in business. 

We covered a ton of concepts and resources, so go ahead and bookmark this page. You can refer to it whenever you have questions or need a refresher.

Dive into market research to uncover customer preferences and spending habits.

Kristen McCabe

Kristen’s is a former senior content marketing specialist at G2. Her global marketing experience extends from Australia to Chicago, with expertise in B2B and B2C industries. Specializing in content, conversions, and events, Kristen spends her time outside of work time acting, learning nature photography, and joining in the #instadog fun with her Pug/Jack Russell, Bella. (she/her/hers)

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How to Write a Case Study (Examples & Best Practices)

Sudarshan Somanathan

Head of Content

July 19, 2024

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Promising your clients powerful solutions is great, but what wins them over is cold, hard proof that you’re successful at what you claim.

And that proof is a case study. Crafting one that grabs attention and showcases business expertise isn’t just about laying out the facts and figures—it’s about making your success stories come alive. 

Whether you’re seasoned or just starting, let’s look at actionable tips to write compelling case studies. From integrating best practices and examples to using tools and templates that simplify the process, learn to write case studies that will win clients over! 🙌

Understanding Case Studies

1. identify the case, 2. research, 3. define the problem, 4. develop a hypothesis, 5. plan the structure, step 1: write an impactful introduction, step 2: provide context, step 3: show your research, step 4: present the solution, step 5: reveal the result, step 6: structure and polish, beyond the steps: different methodologies, leverage clickup for writing compelling case studies , narrative case studies , descriptive case studies , exploratory case studies , explanatory case studies , case study templates, case study examples, best practices for writing case studies, landing pages and onboarding , the role and benefit of case studies in various fields, tell powerful business stories with case studies.

A case study is an in-depth analysis of a real-life situation designed to showcase a concept or principle. It’s an impactful tool in problem-solving and decision-making that gives a detailed illustration of a particular issue and its solution within a real-world context. 

Case studies uncover problems, propose solutions, and highlight successes, making them invaluable for businesses, educators, researchers, and professionals across various fields such as medicine and law. 

Case studies help us explore complex issues through detailed contextual analysis. They help understand cause and effect, identify patterns, and develop strategies for future scenarios. 

By studying how others overcame challenges, you can identify best practices and find new, effective approaches to solve problems that are specific to you.

For instance, a business might use a case study to understand how a specific marketing strategy led to increased sales, or a medical professional might examine a case study to understand the progression of a disease and the effectiveness of different treatments. This enables you to make informed decisions in similar future cases instead of decisions based purely on anecdotal theory or just raw data with no context. 

Attaching a case study of your customer’s success to your proposals or response to Request for Proposal ( RFP) documents can lend credibility to your business’ capabilities and enhance your chances of winning over prospective customers.

How to Prepare for a Case Study

Preparation is key to crafting a compelling case study. Follow these steps to ensure you cover all bases:

Pick a relevant, unique subject that addresses a key customer pain point and provides valuable insights. The chosen case should provide a meaningful story and outcome.

Suppose you consider a local environmental group struggling to raise funds for a critical habitat restoration project. This could be a great case study to showcase how you, as a consultant, helped them develop a compelling fundraising strategy, identify new donor segments, and ultimately reach their financial goals.

Gather information and raw data relevant to your topic, including quantitative data (such as statistics and numerical data) and qualitative insights (such as interviews and observations).  

For interviews, you might need to prepare a list of interviewees and research questions beforehand. Comprehensive research helps build a solid foundation for your case study. This is where research plan templates can come in handy. You can use them to structure your research process—from defining the key elements of your case study upfront to formulating clear research questions and outlining the methods you’ll use to gather data.

Let’s go back to our environment group example. To understand the environmental group’s fundraising struggles, you would gather data on their past fundraising campaigns, donor demographics, and website traffic. You would also interview key staff members and conduct focus groups with potential donors to understand their giving habits and concerns.

Clearly outline the issue or challenge faced. A well-defined problem sets the stage for a focused and effective analysis. Spend some time fine-tuning your case study.

In our example, based on your research, you define the problem as the environmental group’s reliance on traditional fundraising methods that were no longer reaching new donors, leading to stagnant funding for critical projects.

Formulate a potential solution or theory to address the problem. Crafted carefully in one or two sentences, this thesis statement will guide your investigation and analysis.

To help the group, your hypothesis could be that by implementing a multi-channel fundraising strategy that leverages social media, targeted email campaigns, and grant proposals, the environmental group can expand its donor base, increase donation amounts, and secure funding for the habitat restoration project.

Decide on the format and structure of your case study. A well-organized structure ensures that your case study is easy to follow and understand. Most case studies follow a chronological structure. This is great for storytelling and helps you take the reader on a journey from the initial challenge to the successful resolution achieved. It allows you to build suspense and highlight the transformation that took place.

For the example given above, you can decide to structure your case study with sections on the environmental group’s mission and the importance of the restoration project, the fundraising challenges they faced, the implemented solutions using your consulting framework, the results achieved (increased donations and project funding), and the key takeaways for other non-profit organizations.

Once you’ve addressed these steps related to case study planning, you’re ready to jump to the writing process. Let’s do that together, one step at a time! 🤝

How to Write a Case Study

Writing a compelling case study goes beyond simply recounting a project’s success. It’s about weaving a narrative that showcases the problem, your approach, and the impactful results. 

Let’s examine how to write case studies that inform and inspire potential customers and stakeholders.

The introduction is prime real estate in your case study—your chance to grab the reader’s attention. 

Here are two effective strategies to start strong

• Intrigue with a challenge: Open with a relatable scenario highlighting the common pain points your solution addresses. Example: “A struggling e-commerce store has stagnant sales despite offering high-quality products. This was the reality for [Company Name] back in [year/month]”
• Spark curiosity with a statistic: Hook your audience with a surprising or thought-provoking statistic related to the industry or challenge. Example: “Did you know that 70% of online shoppers abandon their carts before checkout? [Client Name] faced this very issue, leading to [amount] in lost revenue”

Once you’ve piqued their interest, provide context for your case study:

• Introduce the client: Briefly introduce the client, their industry, and their specific goals or challenges
• Highlight the problem: Clearly define the problem the client faced. Be specific about the impact it had on their business

Give your readers insights into tangible data and evidence of your study:

Quantitative research 

Numbers add credibility to your case study. Gather data relevant to the problem, such as sales figures, website traffic, or customer churn rates.

Qualitative research

Go beyond the numbers! Interview key stakeholders to understand the client’s perspective, thought processes, and emotional impact of the problem.

Behavioral science 

Understanding human behavior can strengthen your case study. Consider incorporating principles of psychology or decision-making to explain why the client’s previous approach wasn’t working and how your solution addressed those behavioral patterns.

For instance, if your case study focuses on improving a website’s conversion rate, you could mention how applying the “scarcity principle” by highlighting limited-time offers or low stock availability can incentivize purchase decisions.

Help your readers understand how exactly you solved the problem:

• Explain your approach: Detail the steps you took to address the client’s problem. Be clear about the specific strategies or methodologies you implemented
• Highlight expertise: Showcase your unique knowledge and expertise. If you developed a custom framework or used innovative techniques, explain them here

The result of your case study shows your success. Ensure you make it appealing to your readers:

• Showcase results with data: Present the positive outcomes achieved through your solution. Quantify the results whenever possible using the data you gathered earlier. For example, if you helped a client increase website traffic, mention the specific percentage increase observed
• Include client testimonials: Weave in positive quotes or testimonials from the client expressing their satisfaction with the results

Now that you know what exactly to put in your case study, you must understand how to present it:

• Organize for clarity: Structure your case study logically. Common sections include Introduction, Client Background, The Challenge, The Solution, Results, and Conclusion
• Pay attention to readability: Use clear and concise language. Break down complex concepts into digestible terms for a wider audience
• Proofread with precision: Ensure your case study is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished presentation reflects professionalism

While the above steps provide a general framework, case studies can be structured using various methodologies. Here are two common approaches:

• Challenge-Solution-Benefit: This linear structure directly addresses the problem, presents the solution, and highlights the resulting benefits for the client
• Customer journey: This method focuses on the customer’s experience throughout the process. It showcases how your solution helped them navigate challenges and achieve success at each stage of their journey

The chosen methodology depends on the case study’s specific goals and the message you want to convey.

By following these steps and considering different approaches, you can craft compelling case studies that not only inform but also inspire your target audience. 

Remember, a well-written case study is a powerful marketing tool demonstrating your expertise and the value you deliver to clients.

ClickUp is an all-in-one productivity tool. Its intuitive interface and powerful features make it easy to conduct further research, collaborate with team members, and produce high-quality case studies. 

Its marquee feature, ClickUp Brain , is great for writing, editing, and summarizing case studies. This AI-powered tool simplifies the entire process, making it faster and more efficient. 

With ClickUp Brain, you can generate comprehensive case studies from scratch, thanks to its intuitive prompts and suggestions that guide you through each section, ensuring you cover all essential points. Just give it a few bullet points of instruction, and it will help you outline the case study, gather and organize your data, and create a compelling narrative highlighting your achievements and solutions.

Editing is a breeze with ClickUp Brain. The AI can review your content, providing insights and suggestions for improvement. It checks for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy, ensuring your case study reads well and conveys your message effectively. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on fine-tuning your content rather than doing the heavy lifting!

When it comes to summarizing, ClickUp Brain excels by distilling lengthy case studies with too much detail into concise, impactful summaries. This is particularly useful for creating an executive summary of your case study that won’t overwhelm your audience with too much information at once while still sharing the key details with them. 

By leveraging ClickUp Brain, you can produce polished, professional case studies that effectively communicate your successes and expertise.

Case Study Formats

Case studies have various formats, depending on their purpose and audience. This also determines their length. Marketing case studies are usually 500–700 words long. 

In-depth ones for academic, financial, or scientific purposes can exceed 1,000 words, including detailed data, analysis, methodologies, and interviews. Here are some common case study formats with examples:

They tell the story of the case in a linear format . This narrative form is ideal for engaging readers and making complex information more accessible. For instance, a narrative case study about a startup’s journey from inception to success will captivate readers by walking them through each milestone, highlighting challenges and triumphs. A customer success story can be another example.

This format provides a detailed description of the case and its context . It’s useful for presenting a comprehensive overview of a particular situation. An example would be a case study on a company’s operational processes describing how a specific change in workflow improved efficiency, with detailed descriptions of each step and the overall impact on productivity.

Investigates a phenomenon in a preliminary way to lay the groundwork for future studies . This format is often used in academic research to explore new areas of interest. For example, an exploratory case study might examine the initial effects of remote work on employee productivity during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, setting the stage for more extensive research.

This format is ideal for understanding the cause-and-effect relationships in complex scenarios. A case study explaining how a particular marketing strategy led to a significant increase in sales can provide insights into the specific tactics used, customer responses, and overall outcomes, helping clarify the strategy’s direct impact on sales performance.

Each format serves a distinct purpose and can be tailored to the specific needs of your audience and the goals of your case study.

Having templates to structure your case study will save you a great deal of time. 

They help streamline your case study creation process and ensure consistency in formatting. They also provide a framework for organizing your information and presenting it well.

Try the ClickUp Case Study Template to get a head start on your case studies. It helps capture critical information such as project background, challenges faced, strategies implemented, and measurable outcomes. 

This template includes prompts and sections that cover all necessary aspects of a case study, from initial analysis to final results. Its intuitive format helps streamline the writing process, making it easier to organize data and insights coherently, eventually allowing you to showcase the tangible benefits of your work.

If you’re looking to craft visually appealing and well-structured case studies, the ClickUp Case Study Design Template is what you need. This template provides a comprehensive layout that guides you through the essential components of a case study, such as problem statements, solutions, methodologies, and results.

With its pre-designed sections, you can easily organize your content, ensuring that each part of your case study is clearly defined and logically presented. The template’s customizable elements allow you to tailor the design to match your brand’s aesthetics , making your case study informative, engaging, and professional-looking. 

By using this template, you can save time on formatting and focus more on the important stuff.

Case studies illustrate how solutions are applied in various scenarios, offering valuable insights and practical lessons. Here are some other real-world examples:

Business case study: This type of case study analyzes a company’s strategy and outcomes. For example, this is a ClickUp case study featuring Cartoon Network that doubled its output in 50% less time. It outlines systematic ways the business cut short on duplicative efforts, facilitated deeper real-time collaboration, and leveraged insights to boost its productivity.

Medical case study: It examines a patient’s history and treatment. This National Institutes of Health example details a patient’s symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, providing a comprehensive view of the medical journey. It offers medical practitioners valuable insights into diagnosing and managing similar cases.

Technology implementation case study: This details how an organization implemented new technology. For example, a Microsoft case study explores how a company adopted Microsoft Azure to enhance its cloud computing capabilities. It covers the challenges faced, the implementation process, and the positive impact on business operations.

Marketing case study: This form of case study analyzes a marketing campaign’s strategy and results. For instance, Comedy Central launched an innovative search campaign using YouTube videos to introduce Trevor Noah as the new host of “The Daily Show” and engage fans through an interactive Easter egg hunt. The campaign generated 38M impressions and 2.8M views with high engagement rates.

We’ve curated a set of business best practices for writing and promoting impactful case studies to help you create them. 

Incorporate key elements

• Start with a strong introduction: Grab the reader’s attention and set the stage for your analysis. A compelling introduction can draw readers in and make them want to learn more about your case study. This introduction draws on a historical timeline and sets a very strong narrative

• Be clear and concise: Keep your writing concise and focused. Avoid unnecessary jargon and complex language that might confuse readers
• Use visuals: Enhance your case study with charts, graphs, and images to illustrate important sections. Visuals can help make complex information more accessible and engaging

• Include real data: Support your analysis with real data and statistics. Providing concrete evidence can strengthen your arguments and add credibility to your case study

• Tell a story: Make your case study engaging by telling a compelling customer story. Use narrative techniques to bring your case study to life and make it more relatable to readers

Promoting case studies 

Your case study must be supported by a structured  marketing plan . To reach a wider audience, leverage social media marketing and content distribution. Share your case studies on LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific forums to generate interest and engagement.

You can repurpose key elements of the case study into bite-sized LinkedIn posts or Tweets. You can even capture client video testimonials to support the results highlighted in the case studies and share them on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Additionally, consider using SEO best practices to ensure your case studies are easily discoverable online.

Presenting a Case Study

Presenting a case study effectively is crucial for conveying your findings and recommendations. Follow these steps:

• Prepare a clear outline: Organize your presentation logically with a clear outline. This helps ensure that your presentation is easy to follow and that you cover all key points
• Use visual aids: Enhance your presentation with slides, charts, and graphs. Visual aids can help make your presentation more engaging and easier to understand
• Engage your audience: Encourage questions and discussions to engage your audience. Interaction can help reinforce your message and make your presentation more memorable
• Highlight key points: Emphasize the most important findings and recommendations. Make sure your audience leaves with a clear understanding of the main takeaways from your case study

Create dedicated landing pages to showcase your case studies. Use effective onboarding techniques to guide readers through your content. 

For example, you can create a landing page on your website with a strong headline, an overview of your case study, key findings, and a call to action encouraging readers to download the full report. 

Here’s an example from the National Library of Medicine

Another best practice most businesses follow is a landing page featuring the full collection of their case studies . This helps your target audience quickly review all the powerful business stories you have on offer and select the one that’s most relevant to them. 

Take a look at ClickUp’s landing page for case studies below.

Case studies are used across various fields to provide in-depth analysis of relevant theories and insights.

Nursing  

Case studies in nursing help understand patient care and treatment outcomes. 

For example, a case study detailing a diabetic patient’s journey can highlight effective management strategies and complications, such as monitoring blood sugar levels, dietary adjustments, and medication adherence. 

This comprehensive account can offer valuable lessons for healthcare providers, contributing to better patient care practices and education.

Public policy

Public policy case studies provide a detailed analysis of policy decisions and their impact. 

For instance, a case study on a city’s implementation of a new public transportation system can showcase successful interventions, such as increased ridership and reduced traffic congestion. It can also identify areas for improvement, such as the need for better infrastructure or more frequent service. 

These insights can guide future policy decisions, helping policymakers design more effective and efficient public services.

Business case study examples in marketing illustrate successful campaigns and strategies. 

For instance, a case study on Apple’s marketing strategy for the iPhone highlights how they arrived at their creative briefs , positioning, branding, and targeted advertising to capture a significant market share. 

This detailed account of Apple’s approach to market research, consumer behavior analysis, and creative advertising techniques can offer valuable lessons for other businesses looking to enhance their marketing efforts and connect more effectively with their target audience.

Operations management

These case studies provide insights into process improvements and operational efficiency. 

For example, this case study on Toyota’s implementation of lean manufacturing principles shows how the company reduced waste, improved production efficiency, and increased overall product quality. 

By examining the specific steps Toyota took to streamline its operations, such as adopting just-in-time inventory systems and continuous improvement practices, other businesses can learn how to optimize their processes and achieve higher productivity.

Strategic planning

Case studies in strategic planning demonstrate how companies navigate complex business environments. 

For example, a case study on Netflix’s transition from a DVD rental service to a global streaming giant reveals the strategic decisions that fueled its growth. This includes their investment in original content, adoption of new technologies, and expansion into international markets. 

By understanding the strategic choices and challenges Netflix faces, other businesses can gain insights into how to adapt their strategies to changing market conditions and emerging opportunities.

These examples illustrate how case studies in various fields provide actionable insights and practical knowledge to help companies innovate, improve efficiency, and make informed strategic decisions.

Writing an effective case study is more than just presenting data; it’s about telling a story that resonates with your audience and showcases the impact of your solutions. 

By focusing on clear objectives, customer quotes, thorough research, and engaging narratives, you can create strong case studies that not only highlight your successes with previous customers but also build trust with prospective clients and future customers. Remember, a well-crafted case study can help you achieve your marketing goals .

One tool that can significantly streamline the process of creating impactful case studies is ClickUp. With its robust project management features, ClickUp helps you organize your case study research, track progress, and collaborate seamlessly with your team. 

Its AI-powered features streamline the writing process , allowing you to focus on in-depth analysis and creativity. 

Use ClickUp’s templates to structure your case study, set deadlines, and capture every detail accurately. Its document and task management capabilities ensure that your case study is well-organized, visually appealing, and professional. Don’t take our word for it. Try it yourself. 

Sign up for your free ClickUp account today!

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The ultimate guide to case interview frameworks

An effective structure is at the heart of any successful response to a case interview question.

A good case interview structure should identify the right question, present a comprehensive set of independent drivers, and provide a prioritized and insightful approach to solving the case.

The good news is that there are a number of established frameworks that can help you structure your responses to case questions. Learning how to apply these frameworks correctly, however, is a skill in itself.

In this guide, we introduce the 10 most helpful frameworks for structuring responses to case questions, and explain how to use them effectively.

Key takeaways

• Case interview frameworks can be incredibly helpful for structuring your responses to case questions, but it’s vital to learn how to use them.
• Many of the top-10 frameworks can help you structure responses to common case questions, such as those on profitability, revenue growth, market entry, cost cutting, and process optimization.
• The other frameworks covered in this article are: supply and demand, the three Cs, Porter’s Five Forces, the four Ps, and BCG’s growth-share matrix.
• Simply applying a framework to a case in a ‘cookie-cutter’ fashion won’t help you produce the best possible answer. Interviewers want to see that you are capable of proposing custom case interview structures.
• It’s vital to gain an in-depth understanding of case interview frameworks before you can put them into practice. The video lectures in our Interview Prep Course cover 20+ frameworks in detail.
• Learning how to use the frameworks to create custom structures takes a great deal of practice. The structuring drills in our Interview Prep Course can help you build your skills and confidence quickly.

The top-10 case interview frameworks

The profitability framework.

The profitability question in a case interview is a classic. In our analysis of the types of case questions most commonly asked by McKinsey, BCG and Bain , profit improvement topped the list, accounting for 20% of the case questions reported.

As illustrated in the graphic below, profit is defined as revenue minus cost, where revenue is the quantity sold multiplied by the price of the product. The standard approach to thinking about profit is illustrated in the diagram below:

We’ve built on this framework to provide a more sophisticated approach that will help you identify how to increase revenue or reduce costs in a case interview. You can learn more in our article on using the profitability framework to answer case questions .

The revenue growth framework

The chances of being faced with a revenue growth question in a case interview are also very high. In our analysis of common case questions, revenue growth was the second-most frequently cited topic.

The revenue growth framework is based on the principle that there are two main ways to grow a company’s revenue:

• Growing its core business
• Growing outside of its core business

To use this revenue growth framework in a case interview, draw two branches or ‘buckets’ to represent the main ways to grow a business. Then unpack the next level of detail in each subsequent branch, as shown in the example below:

You can learn more in our article on using the revenue growth framework to answer case questions .

The market entry framework

When it comes to a market entry question in a case interview, there are four drivers to consider:

• How big is the market opportunity?
• What kind of share of that market can the client capture?
• Assuming that this share is captured, how much profit can the client make?
• If that profit is attractive, what are the client’s capabilities and what risks are involved?

To identify the size of the market opportunity, you need to know the size and growth of the market.

To understand the share of the market that you can capture, look at the competitive landscape and what customers want, and then compare this to your offering. You might conclude that this is a good opportunity. Alternatively, you might find that the market is already dominated by a small number of powerful players and will therefore be difficult to enter.

To determine potential profit, look at the initial investment coupled with the running cost, and then compare it to the revenue that you can expect.

The market entry framework is illustrated in the graphic below:

The cost-cutting framework

The cost-cutting framework presents three main drivers for reducing cost:

• Reducing the need for what you’re buying
• Meeting the need with fewer resources
• Reducing the cost of the resources

To reduce the need for what you’re buying, you could either eliminate the need entirely or reduce the level of service that you provide.

To meet the need with fewer resources, you could look at ways to either eliminate waste in the process or improve productivity.

To reduce the cost of the resources, you could renegotiate your existing contracts or find cheaper alternatives.

The cost-cutting framework is illustrated in the graphic below:

The process optimization framework

This framework sets out a three-part methodology for optimizing a process:

• Map out the current process
• Look at how to improve each step of the process
• Estimate the gains

When mapping out the current process, there are a few key questions about each step of the process that you need to ask:

• What’s the capacity of that step?
• Is it being fully utilized?
• Is it a bottleneck that’s limiting the capacity of the overall process?

When looking at how you can improve each step of the process, keep the client’s goal in mind. Is their objective to increase capacity, improve reliability, or decrease costs?

Depending on the answer, you might identify a need to reduce the cost of that step, increase its speed, improve its quality, or maybe include the step earlier in the process. You might even want to eliminate it entirely.

Once you’ve done this, map out the new process and estimate the gains.

The process optimization framework is illustrated in the graphic below:

Supply and demand

Supply and demand is the law of gravity that rules markets. Its core principles are very straightforward:

• On the one hand, demand for a product or a service increases when the price goes down.
• On the other hand, more suppliers are ready to provide the product or the service when the price goes up.

As illustrated in the graphic below, these two curves meet at the ‘price/quantity equilibrium’, where supply equals demand:

The supply and demand framework helps us understand how all sorts of markets behave. In business, we can use it to:

• estimate the impact of our interventions
• forecast profits
• make investment decisions
• analyze operational problems, where supply or capacity is typically constrained (e.g. in a shop, call center, or production line)

Outside of business, supply and demand can inform policy-making in areas such as housing, labor, and recruitment needs.

The three Cs framework

The three Cs is one of the most frequently used strategy frameworks. It was created by a Japanese management consultant who later became an academic.

As illustrated in the graphic below, the three ‘Cs’ refer to:

• the company
• its competitors
• its customers

Underpinning the framework is the theory that if a company wants to win in a market, it needs to satisfy its customers’ needs more successfully than its competitors.

Porter’s Five Forces

Porter’s Five Forces builds on the frameworks of both supply and demand and the three Cs. Developed by star Harvard Business School professor Michael Porter, the framework looks at the attractiveness of a market through the lens of five drivers or ‘forces’. These are:

• competitors
• substitutes
• new entrants

The framework is illustrated in the graphic below:

Best suited to market entry questions, Porter’s Five Forces helps us understand the attractiveness of an industry and whether a company should enter a particular market. If an industry has many competitors, substitutes, and new entrants, for example, this could signal a low barrier to entry, little competitive advantage, and low margins.

The four Ps framework

The four Ps framework, also known as the ‘marketing mix’, can help a company establish an effective strategy for launching a new product. The framework focuses on four key areas:

• Product – which can be defined as what’s being offered (i.e. a product’s features, design, and brand)
• Price – which may involve sophisticated strategies and competitive differentiation
• Place – which will typically focus on distribution channels and partnerships
• Promotion – which could include advertising, communication, and public relations

To succeed in marketing a product, a company should make sure that each of the four Ps is aligned closely to the target market segment, as illustrated in the example below:

We’ve used elements of the four Ps in our product launch framework, which you’ll find in our Interview Prep Course .

The BCG growth-share matrix

Created and popularized by BCG, one of the world’s top management consulting firms , the growth-share matrix is a framework that helps large corporations decide how to invest among their business units for the greatest growth.

The framework classifies potential investment areas into four categories based on the growth of the industry and the company’s relative market share:

• ‘Pet’: Low market share in a slow-growing market. Pets should be liquidated, divested or repositioned.
• ‘Cash cow’: High market share in a slow-growing market. Cash cows are profitable and should therefore be ‘milked’ (i.e. managed to maximize profitability).
• ‘Star’: High market share in a fast-growing market. Stars should be invested in as they have the potential to become cash cows in the future.
• ‘Question mark’: Low market share in a fast-growing market. Depending on their potential to become stars, question marks should either be invested in or discarded.

The matrix is illustrated in the graphic below:

We’ve incorporated some elements of the BCG growth-share matrix into our revenue growth framework .

How to use case interview frameworks

The frameworks we’ve covered here can help you greatly with structuring responses to case questions. It’s therefore vital to learn them as part of your case interview preparation.

However, simply applying a framework to a case interview question in a ‘cookie-cutter’ fashion is not enough. This approach will neither produce the best possible answer nor allow you to impress your interviewer.

Even the most common types of case questions require a custom structure. A profitability question that relates to a chain of restaurants, for example, will naturally require a different approach to a question on the same topic in the manufacturing industry.

Many case questions will require you to combine different frameworks and use them as building blocks for crafting your answer. A profitability question may have a focus on market growth or launching a product, for example.

Ultimately, interviewers want to understand how your mind works and see you think on your feet. You’ll therefore need to demonstrate that you can propose a custom case interview structure to any question.

How to practice creating case interview structures

1. learn the theory.

To master the art of using these frameworks effectively in a case interview, the first step is to learn the theory behind them.

We teach everything you need to know about most of the frameworks covered in this article – along with over 10 others – in our Interview Prep Course .

Designed to help you tackle each dimension of the case and fit interviews, the course contains all the video lectures, sample interviews, case material, and practice tools you’ll need to ace any case interview.

2. Hone your structuring skills with drills

Structuring is one of the case interview skills you can practice alone , using drills to build your skills and confidence quickly. Drills are interactive exercises that pose rapid-fire questions and then provide instant feedback.

Our Interview Prep Course includes a comprehensive set of structuring drills, which provide scope for posing clarifying questions. They also offer multiple solutions to each problem to illustrate the diversity of thinking that you can apply when structuring a custom response to a case question.

During your preparation, we recommend spending 20-30 minutes every day reviewing case questions, developing structures for them, and then evaluating their effectiveness.

3. Practice live cases with a partner

Nothing can beat practicing live cases with a partner. In fact, most candidates who go on to receive an offer from a top consulting firm like McKinsey, BCG or Bain complete at least 25 live practice sessions before their interview.

At CaseCoach, we can connect you with a diverse community of fellow candidates who are all available for case interview practice in our Practice Room .

Ultimately, the frameworks covered in this article can help you craft compelling and memorable responses to case interview questions. However, to produce the best possible answers and impress your interviewers, you must use these frameworks to propose custom case interview structures. This is a skill that requires a great deal of practice to develop and hone.

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How to Write a Case Study: A Step-by-Step Guide (+ Examples)

by Todd Brehe

on Jan 3, 2024

If you want to learn how to write a case study that engages prospective clients, demonstrates that you can solve real business problems, and showcases the results you deliver, this guide will help.

We’ll give you a proven template to follow, show you how to conduct an engaging interview, and give you several examples and tips for best practices.

Let’s start with the basics.

What is a Case Study?

A business case study is simply a story about how you successfully delivered a solution to your client.

Case studies start with background information about the customer, describe problems they were facing, present the solutions you developed, and explain how those solutions positively impacted the customer’s business.

Do Marketing Case Studies Really Work?

Absolutely. A well-written case study puts prospective clients into the shoes of your paying clients, encouraging them to engage with you. Plus, they:

• Get shared “behind the lines” with decision makers you may not know;
• Leverage the power of “social proof” to encourage a prospective client to take a chance with your company;
• Build trust and foster likeability;
• Lessen the perceived risk of doing business with you and offer proof that your business can deliver results;
• Help prospects become aware of unrecognized problems;
• Show prospects experiencing similar problems that possible solutions are available (and you can provide said solutions);
• Make it easier for your target audience to find you when using Google and other search engines.

Case studies serve your clients too. For example, they can generate positive publicity and highlight the accomplishments of line staff to the management team. Your company might even throw in a new product/service discount, or a gift as an added bonus.

But don’t just take my word for it. Let’s look at a few statistics and success stories:

5 Winning Case Study Examples to Model

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of how to write a case study, let’s go over a few examples of what an excellent one looks like.

The five case studies listed below are well-written, well-designed, and incorporate a time-tested structure.

1. Lane Terralever and Pinnacle at Promontory

This case study example  from Lane Terralever  incorporates images to support the content and effectively uses subheadings to make the piece scannable.

2. WalkMe Mobile and Hulyo

This case study  from WalkMe Mobile  leads with an engaging headline and the three most important results the client was able to generate.

In the first paragraph, the writer expands the list of accomplishments encouraging readers to learn more.

3. CurationSuite Listening Engine

This is an example of a well-designed printable case study . The client, specific problem, and solution are called out in the left column and summarized succinctly.

4. Brain Traffic and ASAE

This long format case study (6 pages) from Brain Traffic  summarizes the challenges, solutions, and results prominently in the left column. It uses testimonials and headshots of the case study participants very effectively.

5. Adobe and Home Depot

This case study  from Adobe and Home Depot  is a great example of combining video, attention-getting graphics, and long form writing. It also uses testimonials and headshots well.

Now that we’ve gone over the basics and showed a few great case study examples you can use as inspiration, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.

A Case Study Structure That Pros Use

Let’s break down the structure of a compelling case study:

Choose Your Case Study Format

In this guide, we focus on written case studies. They’re affordable to create, and they have a proven track record. However, written case studies are just one of four case study formats to consider:

• Infographic

If you have the resources, video (like the Adobe and Home Depot example above) and podcast case studies can be very compelling. Hearing a client discuss in his or her own words how your company helped is an effective content marketing strategy

Infographic case studies are usually one-page images that summarize the challenge, proposed solution, and results. They tend to work well on social media.

Follow a Tried-and-True Case Study Template

The success story structure we’re using incorporates a “narrative” or “story arc” designed to suck readers in and captivate their interest.

Note:  I recommend creating a blog post or landing page on your website that includes the text from your case study, along with a downloadable PDF. Doing so helps people find your content when they perform Google and other web searches.

There are a few simple SEO strategies that you can apply to your blog post that will optimize your chances of being found. I’ll include those tips below.

Craft a Compelling Headline

The headline should capture your audience’s attention quickly. Include the most important result you achieved, the client’s name, and your company’s name. Create several examples, mull them over a bit, then pick the best one. And, yes, this means writing the headline is done at the very end.

SEO  Tip:  Let’s say your firm provided “video editing services” and you want to target this primary keyword. Include it, your company name, and your client’s name in the case study title.

Write the Executive Summary

This is a mini-narrative using an abbreviated version of the Challenge + Solution + Results model (3-4 short paragraphs). Write this after you complete the case study.

SEO  Tip:  Include your primary keyword in the first paragraph of the Executive Summary.

Provide the Client’s Background

Introduce your client to the reader and create context for the story.

List the Customer’s Challenges and Problems

Vividly describe the situation and problems the customer was dealing with, before working with you.

SEO  Tip:  To rank on page one of Google for our target keyword, review the questions listed in the “People also ask” section at the top of Google’s search results. If you can include some of these questions and their answers into your case study, do so. Just make sure they fit with the flow of your narrative.

Detail Your Solutions

Explain the product or service your company provided, and spell out how it alleviated the client’s problems. Recap how the solution was delivered and implemented. Describe any training needed and the customer’s work effort.

Show Your Results

Detail what you accomplished for the customer and the impact your product/service made. Objective, measurable results that resonate with your target audience are best.

List Future Plans

Share how your client might work with your company in the future.

Give a Call-to-Action

Clearly detail what you want the reader to do at the end of your case study.

Talk About You

Include a “press release-like” description of your client’s organization, with a link to their website. For your printable document, add an “About” section with your contact information.

And that’s it. That’s the basic structure of any good case study.

Now, let’s go over how to get the information you’ll use in your case study.

How to Conduct an Engaging Case Study Interview

One of the best parts of creating a case study is talking with your client about the experience. This is a fun and productive way to learn what your company did well, and what it can improve on, directly from your customer’s perspective.

Here are some suggestions for conducting great case study interviews:

When Choosing a Case Study Subject, Pick a Raving Fan

Your sales and marketing team should know which clients are vocal advocates willing to talk about their experiences. Your customer service and technical support teams should be able to contribute suggestions.

Clients who are experts with your product/service make solid case study candidates. If you sponsor an online community, look for product champions who post consistently and help others.

When selecting a candidate, think about customer stories that would appeal to your target audience. For example, let’s say your sales team is consistently bumping into prospects who are excited about your solution, but are slow to pull the trigger and do business with you.

In this instance, finding a client who felt the same way, but overcame their reluctance and contracted with you anyway, would be a compelling story to capture and share.

Prepping for the Interview

If you’ve ever seen an Oprah interview, you’ve seen a master who can get almost anyone to open up and talk. Part of the reason is that she and her team are disciplined about planning.

Before conducting a case study interview, talk to your own team about the following:

• What’s unique about the client (location, size, industry, etc.) that will resonate with our prospects?
• Why did the customer select us?
• How did we help the client?
• What’s unique about this customer’s experience?
• What problems did we solve?
• Were any measurable, objective results generated?
• What do we want readers to do after reading this case study analysis?

Pro Tip:  Tee up your client. Send them the questions in advance.

Providing questions to clients before the interview helps them prepare, gather input from other colleagues if needed, and feel more comfortable because they know what to expect.

In a moment, I’ll give you an exhaustive list of interview questions. But don’t send them all. Instead, pare the list down to one or two questions in each section and personalize them for your customer.

Nailing the Client Interview

Decide how you’ll conduct the interview. Will you call the client, use Skype or Facetime, or meet in person? Whatever mode you choose, plan the process in advance.

Make sure you record the conversation. It’s tough to lead an interview, listen to your contact’s responses, keep the conversation flowing, write notes, and capture all that the person is saying.

A recording will make it easier to write the client’s story later. It’s also useful for other departments in your company (management, sales, development, etc.) to hear real customer feedback.

Use open-ended questions that spur your contact to talk and share. Here are some real-life examples:

Introduction

• Recap the purpose of the call. Confirm how much time your contact has to talk (30-45 minutes is preferable).
• Confirm the company’s location, number of employees, years in business, industry, etc.
• What’s the contact’s background, title, time with the company, primary responsibilities, and so on?

Initial Challenges

• Describe the situation at your company before engaging with us?
• What were the initial problems you wanted to solve?
• What was the impact of those problems?
• When did you realize you had to take some action?
• What solutions did you try?
• What solutions did you implement?
• What process did you go through to make a purchase?
• How did the implementation go?
• How would you describe the work effort required of your team?
• If training was involved, how did that go?

Results, Improvements, Progress

• When did you start seeing improvements?
• What were the most valuable results?
• What did your team like best about working with us?
• Would you recommend our solution/company? Why?

Future Plans

• How do you see our companies working together in the future?

Honest Feedback

• Our company is very focused on continual improvement. What could we have done differently to make this an even better experience?
• What would you like us to add or change in our product/service?

During the interview, use your contact’s responses to guide the conversation.

Once the interview is complete, it’s time to write your case study.

How to Write a Case Study… Effortlessly

Case study writing is not nearly as difficult as many people make it out to be. And you don’t have to be Stephen King to do professional work. Here are a few tips:

• Use the case study structure that we outlined earlier, but write these sections first: company background, challenges, solutions, and results.
• Write the headline, executive summary, future plans, and call-to-action (CTA) last.
• In each section, include as much content from your interview as you can. Don’t worry about editing at this point
• Tell the story by discussing their trials and tribulations.
• Stay focused on the client and the results they achieved.
• Make their organization and employees shine.
• When including information about your company, frame your efforts in a supporting role.

Also, make sure to do the following:

Add Testimonials, Quotes, and Visuals

The more you can use your contact’s words to describe the engagement, the better. Weave direct quotes throughout your narrative.

Strive to be conversational when you’re writing case studies, as if you’re talking to a peer.

Include images in your case study that visually represent the content and break up the text. Photos of the company, your contact, and other employees are ideal.

If you need to incorporate stock photos, here are three resources:

• Deposit p hotos

And if you need more, check out Smart Blogger’s excellent resource: 17 Sites with High-Quality, Royalty-Free Stock Photos .

Proofread and Tighten Your Writing

Make sure there are no grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. If you need help, consider using a grammar checker tool like Grammarly .

My high school English teacher’s mantra was “tighten your writing.” She taught that impactful writing is concise and free of weak, unnecessary words . This takes effort and discipline, but will make your writing stronger.

Also, keep in mind that we live in an attention-diverted society. Before your audience will dive in and read each paragraph, they’ll first scan your work. Use subheadings to summarize information, convey meaning quickly, and pull the reader in.

Be Sure to Use Best Practices

Consider applying the following best practices to your case study:

• Stay laser-focused on your client and the results they were able to achieve.
• Even if your audience is technical, minimize the use of industry jargon . If you use acronyms, explain them.
• Leave out the selling and advertising.
• Don’t write like a Shakespearean wannabe. Write how people speak. Write to be understood.
• Clear and concise writing is not only more understandable, it inspires trust. Don’t ramble.
• Weave your paragraphs together so that each sentence is dependent on the one before and after it.
• Include a specific case study call-to-action (CTA).
• A recommended case study length is 2-4 pages.
• Commit to building a library of case studies.

Get Client Approval

After you have a final draft, send it to the client for review and approval. Incorporate any edits they suggest.

Use or modify the following “Consent to Publish” form to get the client’s written sign-off:

Consent to Publish

Case Study  Title:

I hereby confirm that I have reviewed the case study listed above and on behalf of the [Company Name], I provide full permission for the work to be published, in whole or in part, for the life of the work, in all languages and all formats by [Company publishing the case study].

By signing this form, I affirm that I am authorized to grant full permission.

Company Name:

E-mail Address:

Common Case Study Questions (& Answers)

We’ll wrap things up with a quick Q&A. If you have a question I didn’t answer, be sure to leave it in a blog comment below.

Should I worry about print versions of my case studies?

Absolutely.

As we saw in the CurationSuite  and Brain Traffic  examples earlier, case studies get downloaded, printed, and shared. Prospects can and will judge your book by its cover.

So, make sure your printed case study is eye-catching and professionally designed. Hire a designer  if necessary.

Why are good case studies so effective?

Case studies work because people trust them.

They’re not ads, they’re not press releases, and they’re not about how stellar your company is.

Plus, everyone likes spellbinding stories with a hero [your client], a conflict [challenges], and a riveting resolution [best solution and results].

How do I promote my case study?

After you’ve written your case study and received the client’s approval to use it, you’ll want to get it in front of as many eyes as possible.

Try the following:

• Make sure your case studies can be easily found on your company’s homepage.
• Tweet and share the case study on your various social media accounts.
• Have your sales team use the case study as a reason to call on potential customers. For example: “Hi [prospect], we just published a case study on Company A. They were facing some of the same challenges I believe your firm is dealing with. I’m going to e-mail you a copy. Let me know what you think.”
• Distribute printed copies at trade shows, seminars, or during sales presentations.
• If you’re bidding on a job and have to submit a quote or a Request for Proposal (RFP), include relevant case studies as supporting documents.

Ready to Write a Case Study That Converts?

If you want to stand out and you want to win business, case studies should be an integral part of your sales and marketing efforts.

Hopefully, this guide answered some of your questions and laid out a path that will make it faster and easier for your team to create professional, sales-generating content.

Now it’s time to take action and get started. Gather your staff, select a client, and ask a contact to participate. Plan your interview and lead an engaging conversation. Write up your client’s story, make them shine, and then share it.

Get better at the case study process by doing it more frequently. Challenge yourself to write at least one case study every two months.

As you do, you’ll be building a valuable repository of meaningful, powerful content. These success stories will serve your business in countless ways, and for years to come.

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• What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

Published on May 8, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 20, 2023.

A case study is a detailed study of a specific subject, such as a person, group, place, event, organization, or phenomenon. Case studies are commonly used in social, educational, clinical, and business research.

A case study research design usually involves qualitative methods , but quantitative methods are sometimes also used. Case studies are good for describing , comparing, evaluating and understanding different aspects of a research problem .

Table of contents

When to do a case study, step 1: select a case, step 2: build a theoretical framework, step 3: collect your data, step 4: describe and analyze the case, other interesting articles.

A case study is an appropriate research design when you want to gain concrete, contextual, in-depth knowledge about a specific real-world subject. It allows you to explore the key characteristics, meanings, and implications of the case.

Case studies are often a good choice in a thesis or dissertation . They keep your project focused and manageable when you don’t have the time or resources to do large-scale research.

You might use just one complex case study where you explore a single subject in depth, or conduct multiple case studies to compare and illuminate different aspects of your research problem.

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Once you have developed your problem statement and research questions , you should be ready to choose the specific case that you want to focus on. A good case study should have the potential to:

• Provide new or unexpected insights into the subject
• Challenge or complicate existing assumptions and theories
• Propose practical courses of action to resolve a problem
• Open up new directions for future research

TipIf your research is more practical in nature and aims to simultaneously investigate an issue as you solve it, consider conducting action research instead.

Unlike quantitative or experimental research , a strong case study does not require a random or representative sample. In fact, case studies often deliberately focus on unusual, neglected, or outlying cases which may shed new light on the research problem.

Example of an outlying case studyIn the 1960s the town of Roseto, Pennsylvania was discovered to have extremely low rates of heart disease compared to the US average. It became an important case study for understanding previously neglected causes of heart disease.

However, you can also choose a more common or representative case to exemplify a particular category, experience or phenomenon.

Example of a representative case studyIn the 1920s, two sociologists used Muncie, Indiana as a case study of a typical American city that supposedly exemplified the changing culture of the US at the time.

While case studies focus more on concrete details than general theories, they should usually have some connection with theory in the field. This way the case study is not just an isolated description, but is integrated into existing knowledge about the topic. It might aim to:

• Exemplify a theory by showing how it explains the case under investigation
• Expand on a theory by uncovering new concepts and ideas that need to be incorporated
• Challenge a theory by exploring an outlier case that doesn’t fit with established assumptions

To ensure that your analysis of the case has a solid academic grounding, you should conduct a literature review of sources related to the topic and develop a theoretical framework . This means identifying key concepts and theories to guide your analysis and interpretation.

There are many different research methods you can use to collect data on your subject. Case studies tend to focus on qualitative data using methods such as interviews , observations , and analysis of primary and secondary sources (e.g., newspaper articles, photographs, official records). Sometimes a case study will also collect quantitative data.

Example of a mixed methods case studyFor a case study of a wind farm development in a rural area, you could collect quantitative data on employment rates and business revenue, collect qualitative data on local people’s perceptions and experiences, and analyze local and national media coverage of the development.

The aim is to gain as thorough an understanding as possible of the case and its context.

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In writing up the case study, you need to bring together all the relevant aspects to give as complete a picture as possible of the subject.

How you report your findings depends on the type of research you are doing. Some case studies are structured like a standard scientific paper or thesis , with separate sections or chapters for the methods , results and discussion .

Others are written in a more narrative style, aiming to explore the case from various angles and analyze its meanings and implications (for example, by using textual analysis or discourse analysis ).

In all cases, though, make sure to give contextual details about the case, connect it back to the literature and theory, and discuss how it fits into wider patterns or debates.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Normal distribution
• Degrees of freedom
• Null hypothesis
• Discourse analysis
• Control groups
• Mixed methods research
• Non-probability sampling
• Quantitative research
• Ecological validity

Research bias

• Rosenthal effect
• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Selection bias
• Negativity bias
• Status quo bias

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15 Real-Life Case Study Examples & Best Practices

Written by: Oghale Olori

Case studies are more than just success stories.

They are powerful tools that demonstrate the practical value of your product or service. Case studies help attract attention to your products, build trust with potential customers and ultimately drive sales.

It’s no wonder that 73% of successful content marketers utilize case studies as part of their content strategy. Plus, buyers spend 54% of their time reviewing case studies before they make a buying decision.

To ensure you’re making the most of your case studies, we’ve put together 15 real-life case study examples to inspire you. These examples span a variety of industries and formats. We’ve also included best practices, design tips and templates to inspire you.

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a case study, 15 real-life case study examples, sales case study examples, saas case study examples, product case study examples, marketing case study examples, business case study examples, case study faqs.

• A case study is a compelling narrative that showcases how your product or service has positively impacted a real business or individual. 
• Case studies delve into your customer's challenges, how your solution addressed them and the quantifiable results they achieved.
• Your case study should have an attention-grabbing headline, great visuals and a relevant call to action. Other key elements include an introduction, problems and result section.
• Visme provides easy-to-use tools, professionally designed templates and features for creating attractive and engaging case studies.

A case study is a real-life scenario where your company helped a person or business solve their unique challenges. It provides a detailed analysis of the positive outcomes achieved as a result of implementing your solution.

Case studies are an effective way to showcase the value of your product or service to potential customers without overt selling. By sharing how your company transformed a business, you can attract customers seeking similar solutions and results.

Case studies are not only about your company's capabilities; they are primarily about the benefits customers and clients have experienced from using your product.

Every great case study is made up of key elements. They are;

• Attention-grabbing headline: Write a compelling headline that grabs attention and tells your reader what the case study is about. For example, "How a CRM System Helped a B2B Company Increase Revenue by 225%.
• Introduction/Executive Summary: Include a brief overview of your case study, including your customer’s problem, the solution they implemented and the results they achieved.
• Problem/Challenge: Case studies with solutions offer a powerful way to connect with potential customers. In this section, explain how your product or service specifically addressed your customer's challenges.
• Solution: Explain how your product or service specifically addressed your customer's challenges.
• Results/Achievements : Give a detailed account of the positive impact of your product. Quantify the benefits achieved using metrics such as increased sales, improved efficiency, reduced costs or enhanced customer satisfaction.
• Graphics/Visuals: Include professional designs, high-quality photos and videos to make your case study more engaging and visually appealing.
• Quotes/Testimonials: Incorporate written or video quotes from your clients to boost your credibility.
• Relevant CTA: Insert a call to action (CTA) that encourages the reader to take action. For example, visiting your website or contacting you for more information. Your CTA can be a link to a landing page, a contact form or your social media handle and should be related to the product or service you highlighted in your case study.

Now that you understand what a case study is, let’s look at real-life case study examples. Among these, you'll find some simple case study examples that break down complex ideas into easily understandable solutions.

In this section, we’ll explore SaaS, marketing, sales, product and business case study examples with solutions. Take note of how these companies structured their case studies and included the key elements.

We’ve also included professionally designed case study templates to inspire you.

1. Georgia Tech Athletics Increase Season Ticket Sales by 80%

Georgia Tech Athletics, with its 8,000 football season ticket holders, sought for a way to increase efficiency and customer engagement.

Their initial sales process involved making multiple outbound phone calls per day with no real targeting or guidelines. Georgia Tech believed that targeting communications will enable them to reach more people in real time.

Salesloft improved Georgia Tech’s sales process with an inbound structure. This enabled sales reps to connect with their customers on a more targeted level. The use of dynamic fields and filters when importing lists ensured prospects received the right information, while communication with existing fans became faster with automation.

As a result, Georgia Tech Athletics recorded an 80% increase in season ticket sales as relationships with season ticket holders significantly improved. Employee engagement increased as employees became more energized to connect and communicate with fans.

Why Does This Case Study Work?

In this case study example , Salesloft utilized the key elements of a good case study. Their introduction gave an overview of their customers' challenges and the results they enjoyed after using them. After which they categorized the case study into three main sections: challenge, solution and result.

Salesloft utilized a case study video to increase engagement and invoke human connection.

Incorporating videos in your case study has a lot of benefits. Wyzol’s 2023 state of video marketing report showed a direct correlation between videos and an 87% increase in sales.

The beautiful thing is that creating videos for your case study doesn’t have to be daunting.

With an easy-to-use platform like Visme, you can create top-notch testimonial videos that will connect with your audience. Within the Visme editor, you can access over 1 million stock photos , video templates, animated graphics and more. These tools and resources will significantly improve the design and engagement of your case study.

Simplify content creation and brand management for your team

• Collaborate on designs , mockups and wireframes with your non-design colleagues
• Lock down your branding to maintain brand consistency throughout your designs
• Why start from scratch? Save time with 1000s of professional branded templates

Sign up. It’s free.

2. WeightWatchers Completely Revamped their Enterprise Sales Process with HubSpot

WeightWatchers, a 60-year-old wellness company, sought a CRM solution that increased the efficiency of their sales process. With their previous system, Weightwatchers had limited automation. They would copy-paste message templates from word documents or recreate one email for a batch of customers.

This required a huge effort from sales reps, account managers and leadership, as they were unable to track leads or pull customized reports for planning and growth.

WeightWatchers transformed their B2B sales strategy by leveraging HubSpot's robust marketing and sales workflows. They utilized HubSpot’s deal pipeline and automation features to streamline lead qualification. And the customized dashboard gave leadership valuable insights.

As a result, WeightWatchers generated seven figures in annual contract value and boosted recurring revenue. Hubspot’s impact resulted in 100% adoption across all sales, marketing, client success and operations teams.

Hubspot structured its case study into separate sections, demonstrating the specific benefits of their products to various aspects of the customer's business. Additionally, they integrated direct customer quotes in each section to boost credibility, resulting in a more compelling case study.

Getting insight from your customer about their challenges is one thing. But writing about their process and achievements in a concise and relatable way is another. If you find yourself constantly experiencing writer’s block, Visme’s AI writer is perfect for you.

Visme created this AI text generator tool to take your ideas and transform them into a great draft. So whether you need help writing your first draft or editing your final case study, Visme is ready for you.

3. Immi’s Ram Fam Helps to Drive Over $200k in Sales

Immi embarked on a mission to recreate healthier ramen recipes that were nutritious and delicious. After 2 years of tireless trials, Immi finally found the perfect ramen recipe. However, they envisioned a community of passionate ramen enthusiasts to fuel their business growth.

This vision propelled them to partner with Shopify Collabs. Shopify Collabs successfully cultivated and managed Immi’s Ramen community of ambassadors and creators.

As a result of their partnership, Immi’s community grew to more than 400 dedicated members, generating over $200,000 in total affiliate sales.

The power of data-driven headlines cannot be overemphasized. Chili Piper strategically incorporates quantifiable results in their headlines. This instantly sparks curiosity and interest in readers.

While not every customer success story may boast headline-grabbing figures, quantifying achievements in percentages is still effective. For example, you can highlight a 50% revenue increase with the implementation of your product.

Take a look at the beautiful case study template below. Just like in the example above, the figures in the headline instantly grab attention and entice your reader to click through.

Having a case study document is a key factor in boosting engagement. This makes it easy to promote your case study in multiple ways. With Visme, you can easily publish, download and share your case study with your customers in a variety of formats, including PDF, PPTX, JPG and more!

4. How WOW! is Saving Nearly 79% in Time and Cost With Visme

This case study discusses how Visme helped WOW! save time and money by providing user-friendly tools to create interactive and quality training materials for their employees. Find out what your team can do with Visme. Request a Demo

WOW!'s learning and development team creates high-quality training materials for new and existing employees. Previous tools and platforms they used had plain templates, little to no interactivity features, and limited flexibility—that is, until they discovered Visme.

Now, the learning and development team at WOW! use Visme to create engaging infographics, training videos, slide decks and other training materials.

This has directly reduced the company's turnover rate, saving them money spent on recruiting and training new employees. It has also saved them a significant amount of time, which they can now allocate to other important tasks.

Visme's customer testimonials spark an emotional connection with the reader, leaving a profound impact. Upon reading this case study, prospective customers will be blown away by the remarkable efficiency achieved by Visme's clients after switching from PowerPoint.

Visme’s interactivity feature was a game changer for WOW! and one of the primary reasons they chose Visme.

“Previously we were using PowerPoint, which is fine, but the interactivity you can get with Visme is so much more robust that we’ve all steered away from PowerPoint.” - Kendra, L&D team, Wow!

Visme’s interactive feature allowed them to animate their infographics, include clickable links on their PowerPoint designs and even embed polls and quizzes their employees could interact with.

By embedding the slide decks, infographics and other training materials WOW! created with Visme, potential customers get a taste of what they can create with the tool. This is much more effective than describing the features of Visme because it allows potential customers to see the tool in action.

To top it all off, this case study utilized relevant data and figures. For example, one part of the case study said, “In Visme, where Kendra’s team has access to hundreds of templates, a brand kit, and millions of design assets at their disposal, their team can create presentations in 80% less time.”

Who wouldn't want that?

Including relevant figures and graphics in your case study is a sure way to convince your potential customers why you’re a great fit for their brand. The case study template below is a great example of integrating relevant figures and data.

This colorful template begins with a captivating headline. But that is not the best part; this template extensively showcases the results their customer had using relevant figures.

The arrangement of the results makes it fun and attractive. Instead of just putting figures in a plain table, you can find interesting shapes in your Visme editor to take your case study to the next level.

5. Lyte Reduces Customer Churn To Just 3% With Hubspot CRM

While Lyte was redefining the ticketing industry, it had no definite CRM system . Lyte utilized 12–15 different SaaS solutions across various departments, which led to a lack of alignment between teams, duplication of work and overlapping tasks.

Customer data was spread across these platforms, making it difficult to effectively track their customer journey. As a result, their churn rate increased along with customer dissatisfaction.

Through Fuelius , Lyte founded and implemented Hubspot CRM. Lyte's productivity skyrocketed after incorporating Hubspot's all-in-one CRM tool. With improved efficiency, better teamwork and stronger client relationships, sales figures soared.

The case study title page and executive summary act as compelling entry points for both existing and potential customers. This overview provides a clear understanding of the case study and also strategically incorporates key details like the client's industry, location and relevant background information.

Having a good summary of your case study can prompt your readers to engage further. You can achieve this with a simple but effective case study one-pager that highlights your customer’s problems, process and achievements, just like this case study did in the beginning.

Moreover, you can easily distribute your case study one-pager and use it as a lead magnet to draw prospective customers to your company.

Take a look at this case study one-pager template below.

This template includes key aspects of your case study, such as the introduction, key findings, conclusion and more, without overcrowding the page. The use of multiple shades of blue gives it a clean and dynamic layout.

Our favorite part of this template is where the age group is visualized.

With Visme’s data visualization tool , you can present your data in tables, graphs, progress bars, maps and so much more. All you need to do is choose your preferred data visualization widget, input or import your data and click enter!

6. How Workato Converts 75% of Their Qualified Leads

Workato wanted to improve their inbound leads and increase their conversion rate, which ranged from 40-55%.

At first, Workato searched for a simple scheduling tool. They soon discovered that they needed a tool that provided advanced routing capabilities based on zip code and other criteria. Luckily, they found and implemented Chili Piper.

As a result of implementing Chili Piper, Workato achieved a remarkable 75–80% conversion rate and improved show rates. This led to a substantial revenue boost, with a 10-15% increase in revenue attributed to Chili Piper's impact on lead conversion.

This case study example utilizes the power of video testimonials to drive the impact of their product.

Chili Piper incorporates screenshots and clips of their tool in use. This is a great strategy because it helps your viewers become familiar with how your product works, making onboarding new customers much easier.

In this case study example, we see the importance of efficient Workflow Management Systems (WMS). Without a WMS, you manually assign tasks to your team members and engage in multiple emails for regular updates on progress.

However, when crafting and designing your case study, you should prioritize having a good WMS.

Visme has an outstanding Workflow Management System feature that keeps you on top of all your projects and designs. This feature makes it much easier to assign roles, ensure accuracy across documents, and track progress and deadlines.

Visme’s WMS feature allows you to limit access to your entire document by assigning specific slides or pages to individual members of your team. At the end of the day, your team members are not overwhelmed or distracted by the whole document but can focus on their tasks.

7. Rush Order Helps Vogmask Scale-Up During a Pandemic

Vomask's reliance on third-party fulfillment companies became a challenge as demand for their masks grew. Seeking a reliable fulfillment partner, they found Rush Order and entrusted them with their entire inventory.

Vomask's partnership with Rush Order proved to be a lifesaver during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rush Order's agility, efficiency and commitment to customer satisfaction helped Vogmask navigate the unprecedented demand and maintain its reputation for quality and service.

Rush Order’s comprehensive support enabled Vogmask to scale up its order processing by a staggering 900% while maintaining a remarkable customer satisfaction rate of 92%.

Rush Order chose one event where their impact mattered the most to their customer and shared that story.

While pandemics don't happen every day, you can look through your customer’s journey and highlight a specific time or scenario where your product or service saved their business.

The story of Vogmask and Rush Order is compelling, but it simply is not enough. The case study format and design attract readers' attention and make them want to know more. Rush Order uses consistent colors throughout the case study, starting with the logo, bold square blocks, pictures, and even headers.

Take a look at this product case study template below.

Just like our example, this case study template utilizes bold colors and large squares to attract and maintain the reader’s attention. It provides enough room for you to write about your customers' backgrounds/introductions, challenges, goals and results.

The right combination of shapes and colors adds a level of professionalism to this case study template.

8. AMR Hair & Beauty leverages B2B functionality to boost sales by 200%

With limits on website customization, slow page loading and multiple website crashes during peak events, it wasn't long before AMR Hair & Beauty began looking for a new e-commerce solution.

Their existing platform lacked effective search and filtering options, a seamless checkout process and the data analytics capabilities needed for informed decision-making. This led to a significant number of abandoned carts.

Upon switching to Shopify Plus, AMR immediately saw improvements in page loading speed and average session duration. They added better search and filtering options for their wholesale customers and customized their checkout process.

Due to this, AMR witnessed a 200% increase in sales and a 77% rise in B2B average order value. AMR Hair & Beauty is now poised for further expansion and growth.

This case study example showcases the power of a concise and impactful narrative.

To make their case analysis more effective, Shopify focused on the most relevant aspects of the customer's journey. While there may have been other challenges the customer faced, they only included those that directly related to their solutions.

Take a look at this case study template below. It is perfect if you want to create a concise but effective case study. Without including unnecessary details, you can outline the challenges, solutions and results your customers experienced from using your product.

Don’t forget to include a strong CTA within your case study. By incorporating a link, sidebar pop-up or an exit pop-up into your case study, you can prompt your readers and prospective clients to connect with you.

9. How a Marketing Agency Uses Visme to Create Engaging Content With Infographics

SmartBox Dental , a marketing agency specializing in dental practices, sought ways to make dental advice more interesting and easier to read. However, they lacked the design skills to do so effectively.

Visme's wide range of templates and features made it easy for the team to create high-quality content quickly and efficiently. SmartBox Dental enjoyed creating infographics in as little as 10-15 minutes, compared to one hour before Visme was implemented.

By leveraging Visme, SmartBox Dental successfully transformed dental content into a more enjoyable and informative experience for their clients' patients. Therefore enhancing its reputation as a marketing partner that goes the extra mile to deliver value to its clients.

Visme creatively incorporates testimonials In this case study example.

By showcasing infographics and designs created by their clients, they leverage the power of social proof in a visually compelling way. This way, potential customers gain immediate insight into the creative possibilities Visme offers as a design tool.

This example effectively showcases a product's versatility and impact, and we can learn a lot about writing a case study from it. Instead of focusing on one tool or feature per customer, Visme took a more comprehensive approach.

Within each section of their case study, Visme explained how a particular tool or feature played a key role in solving the customer's challenges.

For example, this case study highlighted Visme’s collaboration tool . With Visme’s tool, the SmartBox Dental content team fostered teamwork, accountability and effective supervision.

Visme also achieved a versatile case study by including relevant quotes to showcase each tool or feature. Take a look at some examples;

Visme’s collaboration tool: “We really like the collaboration tool. Being able to see what a co-worker is working on and borrow their ideas or collaborate on a project to make sure we get the best end result really helps us out.”

Visme’s library of stock photos and animated characters: “I really love the images and the look those give to an infographic. I also really like the animated little guys and the animated pictures. That’s added a lot of fun to our designs.”

Visme’s interactivity feature: “You can add URLs and phone number links directly into the infographic so they can just click and call or go to another page on the website and I really like adding those hyperlinks in.”

You can ask your customers to talk about the different products or features that helped them achieve their business success and draw quotes from each one.

10. Jasper Grows Blog Organic Sessions 810% and Blog-Attributed User Signups 400X

Jasper, an AI writing tool, lacked a scalable content strategy to drive organic traffic and user growth. They needed help creating content that converted visitors into users. Especially when a looming domain migration threatened organic traffic.

To address these challenges, Jasper partnered with Omniscient Digital. Their goal was to turn their content into a growth channel and drive organic growth. Omniscient Digital developed a full content strategy for Jasper AI, which included a content audit, competitive analysis, and keyword discovery.

Through their collaboration, Jasper’s organic blog sessions increased by 810%, despite the domain migration. They also witnessed a 400X increase in blog-attributed signups. And more importantly, the content program contributed to over $4 million in annual recurring revenue.

The combination of storytelling and video testimonials within the case study example makes this a real winner. But there’s a twist to it. Omniscient segmented the video testimonials and placed them in different sections of the case study.

Video marketing , especially in case studies, works wonders. Research shows us that 42% of people prefer video testimonials because they show real customers with real success stories. So if you haven't thought of it before, incorporate video testimonials into your case study.

Take a look at this stunning video testimonial template. With its simple design, you can input the picture, name and quote of your customer within your case study in a fun and engaging way.

Try it yourself! Customize this template with your customer’s testimonial and add it to your case study!

11. How Meliá Became One of the Most Influential Hotel Chains on Social Media

Meliá Hotels needed help managing their growing social media customer service needs. Despite having over 500 social accounts, they lacked a unified response protocol and detailed reporting. This largely hindered efficiency and brand consistency.

Meliá partnered with Hootsuite to build an in-house social customer care team. Implementing Hootsuite's tools enabled Meliá to decrease response times from 24 hours to 12.4 hours while also leveraging smart automation.

In addition to that, Meliá resolved over 133,000 conversations, booking 330 inquiries per week through Hootsuite Inbox. They significantly improved brand consistency, response time and customer satisfaction.

The need for a good case study design cannot be over-emphasized.

As soon as anyone lands on this case study example, they are mesmerized by a beautiful case study design. This alone raises the interest of readers and keeps them engaged till the end.

If you’re currently saying to yourself, “ I can write great case studies, but I don’t have the time or skill to turn it into a beautiful document.” Say no more.

Visme’s amazing AI document generator can take your text and transform it into a stunning and professional document in minutes! Not only do you save time, but you also get inspired by the design.

With Visme’s document generator, you can create PDFs, case study presentations , infographics and more!

Take a look at this case study template below. Just like our case study example, it captures readers' attention with its beautiful design. Its dynamic blend of colors and fonts helps to segment each element of the case study beautifully.

12. Tea’s Me Cafe: Tamika Catchings is Brewing Glory

Tamika's journey began when she purchased Tea's Me Cafe in 2017, saving it from closure. She recognized the potential of the cafe as a community hub and hosted regular events centered on social issues and youth empowerment.

One of Tamika’s business goals was to automate her business. She sought to streamline business processes across various aspects of her business. One of the ways she achieves this goal is through Constant Contact.

Constant Contact became an integral part of Tamika's marketing strategy. They provided an automated and centralized platform for managing email newsletters, event registrations, social media scheduling and more.

This allowed Tamika and her team to collaborate efficiently and focus on engaging with their audience. They effectively utilized features like WooCommerce integration, text-to-join and the survey builder to grow their email list, segment their audience and gather valuable feedback.

The case study example utilizes the power of storytelling to form a connection with readers. Constant Contact takes a humble approach in this case study. They spotlight their customers' efforts as the reason for their achievements and growth, establishing trust and credibility.

This case study is also visually appealing, filled with high-quality photos of their customer. While this is a great way to foster originality, it can prove challenging if your customer sends you blurry or low-quality photos.

If you find yourself in that dilemma, you can use Visme’s AI image edit tool to touch up your photos. With Visme’s AI tool, you can remove unwanted backgrounds, erase unwanted objects, unblur low-quality pictures and upscale any photo without losing the quality.

Constant Contact offers its readers various formats to engage with their case study. Including an audio podcast and PDF.

In its PDF version, Constant Contact utilized its brand colors to create a stunning case study design.  With this, they increase brand awareness and, in turn, brand recognition with anyone who comes across their case study.

With Visme’s brand wizard tool , you can seamlessly incorporate your brand assets into any design or document you create. By inputting your URL, Visme’s AI integration will take note of your brand colors, brand fonts and more and create branded templates for you automatically.

You don't need to worry about spending hours customizing templates to fit your brand anymore. You can focus on writing amazing case studies that promote your company.

13. How Breakwater Kitchens Achieved a 7% Growth in Sales With Thryv

Breakwater Kitchens struggled with managing their business operations efficiently. They spent a lot of time on manual tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing client communication. This made it difficult for them to grow their business and provide the best possible service to their customers.

David, the owner, discovered Thryv. With Thryv, Breakwater Kitchens was able to automate many of their manual tasks. Additionally, Thryv integrated social media management. This enabled Breakwater Kitchens to deliver a consistent brand message, captivate its audience and foster online growth.

As a result, Breakwater Kitchens achieved increased efficiency, reduced missed appointments and a 7% growth in sales.

This case study example uses a concise format and strong verbs, which make it easy for readers to absorb the information.

At the top of the case study, Thryv immediately builds trust by presenting their customer's complete profile, including their name, company details and website. This allows potential customers to verify the case study's legitimacy, making them more likely to believe in Thryv's services.

However, manually copying and pasting customer information across multiple pages of your case study can be time-consuming.

To save time and effort, you can utilize Visme's dynamic field feature . Dynamic fields automatically insert reusable information into your designs.  So you don’t have to type it out multiple times.

14. Zoom’s Creative Team Saves Over 4,000 Hours With Brandfolder

Zoom experienced rapid growth with the advent of remote work and the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic. Such growth called for agility and resilience to scale through.

At the time, Zoom’s assets were disorganized which made retrieving brand information a burden. Zoom’s creative manager spent no less than 10 hours per week finding and retrieving brand assets for internal teams.

Zoom needed a more sustainable approach to organizing and retrieving brand information and came across Brandfolder. Brandfolder simplified and accelerated Zoom’s email localization and webpage development. It also enhanced the creation and storage of Zoom virtual backgrounds.

With Brandfolder, Zoom now saves 4,000+ hours every year. The company also centralized its assets in Brandfolder, which allowed 6,800+ employees and 20-30 vendors to quickly access them.

Brandfolder infused its case study with compelling data and backed it up with verifiable sources. This data-driven approach boosts credibility and increases the impact of their story.

Bradfolder's case study goes the extra mile by providing a downloadable PDF version, making it convenient for readers to access the information on their own time. Their dedication to crafting stunning visuals is evident in every aspect of the project.

From the vibrant colors to the seamless navigation, everything has been meticulously designed to leave a lasting impression on the viewer. And with clickable links that make exploring the content a breeze, the user experience is guaranteed to be nothing short of exceptional.

The thing is, your case study presentation won’t always sit on your website. There are instances where you may need to do a case study presentation for clients, partners or potential investors.

Visme has a rich library of templates you can tap into. But if you’re racing against the clock, Visme’s AI presentation maker is your best ally.

15. How Cents of Style Made $1.7M+ in Affiliate Sales with LeadDyno

Cents of Style had a successful affiliate and influencer marketing strategy. However, their existing affiliate marketing platform was not intuitive, customizable or transparent enough to meet the needs of their influencers.

Cents of Styles needed an easy-to-use affiliate marketing platform that gave them more freedom to customize their program and implement a multi-tier commission program.

After exploring their options, Cents of Style decided on LeadDyno.

LeadDyno provided more flexibility, allowing them to customize commission rates and implement their multi-tier commission structure, switching from monthly to weekly payouts.

Also, integrations with PayPal made payments smoother And features like newsletters and leaderboards added to the platform's success by keeping things transparent and engaging.

As a result, Cents of Style witnessed an impressive $1.7 million in revenue from affiliate sales with a substantial increase in web sales by 80%.

LeadDyno strategically placed a compelling CTA in the middle of their case study layout, maximizing its impact. At this point, readers are already invested in the customer's story and may be considering implementing similar strategies.

A well-placed CTA offers them a direct path to learn more and take action.

LeadDyno also utilized the power of quotes to strengthen their case study. They didn't just embed these quotes seamlessly into the text; instead, they emphasized each one with distinct blocks.

Are you looking for an easier and quicker solution to create a case study and other business documents? Try Visme's AI designer ! This powerful tool allows you to generate complete documents, such as case studies, reports, whitepapers and more, just by providing text prompts. Simply explain your requirements to the tool, and it will produce the document for you, complete with text, images, design assets and more.

Still have more questions about case studies? Let's look at some frequently asked questions.

How to Write a Case Study?

• Choose a compelling story: Not all case studies are created equal. Pick one that is relevant to your target audience and demonstrates the specific benefits of your product or service.
• Outline your case study: Create a case study outline and highlight how you will structure your case study to include the introduction, problem, solution and achievements of your customer.
• Choose a case study template: After you outline your case study, choose a case study template . Visme has stunning templates that can inspire your case study design.
• Craft a compelling headline: Include figures or percentages that draw attention to your case study.
• Work on the first draft: Your case study should be easy to read and understand. Use clear and concise language and avoid jargon.
• Include high-quality visual aids: Visuals can help to make your case study more engaging and easier to read. Consider adding high-quality photos, screenshots or videos.
• Include a relevant CTA: Tell prospective customers how to reach you for questions or sign-ups.

What Are the Stages of a Case Study?

The stages of a case study are;

• Planning & Preparation: Highlight your goals for writing the case study. Plan the case study format, length and audience you wish to target.
• Interview the Client: Reach out to the company you want to showcase and ask relevant questions about their journey and achievements.
• Revision & Editing: Review your case study and ask for feedback. Include relevant quotes and CTAs to your case study.
• Publication & Distribution: Publish and share your case study on your website, social media channels and email list!
• Marketing & Repurposing: Turn your case study into a podcast, PDF, case study presentation and more. Share these materials with your sales and marketing team.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Case Study?

Advantages of a case study:

• Case studies showcase a specific solution and outcome for specific customer challenges.
• It attracts potential customers with similar challenges.
• It builds trust and credibility with potential customers.
• It provides an in-depth analysis of your company’s problem-solving process.

Disadvantages of a case study:

• Limited applicability. Case studies are tailored to specific cases and may not apply to other businesses.
• It relies heavily on customer cooperation and willingness to share information.
• It stands a risk of becoming outdated as industries and customer needs evolve.

What Are the Types of Case Studies?

There are 7 main types of case studies. They include;

• Illustrative case study.
• Instrumental case study.
• Intrinsic case study.
• Descriptive case study.
• Explanatory case study.
• Exploratory case study.
• Collective case study.

How Long Should a Case Study Be?

The ideal length of your case study is between 500 - 1500 words or 1-3 pages. Certain factors like your target audience, goal or the amount of detail you want to share may influence the length of your case study. This infographic has powerful tips for designing winning case studies

What Is the Difference Between a Case Study and an Example?

Case studies provide a detailed narrative of how your product or service was used to solve a problem. Examples are general illustrations and are not necessarily real-life scenarios.

Case studies are often used for marketing purposes, attracting potential customers and building trust. Examples, on the other hand, are primarily used to simplify or clarify complex concepts.

Where Can I Find Case Study Examples?

You can easily find many case study examples online and in industry publications. Many companies, including Visme, share case studies on their websites to showcase how their products or services have helped clients achieve success. You can also search online libraries and professional organizations for case studies related to your specific industry or field.

If you need professionally-designed, customizable case study templates to create your own, Visme's template library is one of the best places to look. These templates include all the essential sections of a case study and high-quality content to help you create case studies that position your business as an industry leader.

Get More Out Of Your Case Studies With Visme

Case studies are an essential tool for converting potential customers into paying customers. By following the tips in this article, you can create compelling case studies that will help you build trust, establish credibility and drive sales.

Visme can help you create stunning case studies and other relevant marketing materials. With our easy-to-use platform, interactive features and analytics tools , you can increase your content creation game in no time.

There is no limit to what you can achieve with Visme. Connect with Sales to discover how Visme can boost your business goals.

Easily create beautiful case studies and more with Visme

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How to Write a Case Study - All You Wanted to Know

What do you study in your college? If you are a psychology, sociology, or anthropology student, we bet you might be familiar with what a case study is. This research method is used to study a certain person, group, or situation. In this guide from our dissertation writing service , you will learn how to write a case study professionally, from researching to citing sources properly. Also, we will explore different types of case studies and show you examples — so that you won’t have any other questions left.

What Is a Case Study?

A case study is a subcategory of research design which investigates problems and offers solutions. Case studies can range from academic research studies to corporate promotional tools trying to sell an idea—their scope is quite vast.

What Is the Difference Between a Research Paper and a Case Study?

While research papers turn the reader’s attention to a certain problem, case studies go even further. Case study guidelines require students to pay attention to details, examining issues closely and in-depth using different research methods. For example, case studies may be used to examine court cases if you study Law, or a patient's health history if you study Medicine. Case studies are also used in Marketing, which are thorough, empirically supported analysis of a good or service's performance. Well-designed case studies can be valuable for prospective customers as they can identify and solve the potential customers pain point.

Case studies involve a lot of storytelling – they usually examine particular cases for a person or a group of people. This method of research is very helpful, as it is very practical and can give a lot of hands-on information. Most commonly, the length of the case study is about 500-900 words, which is much less than the length of an average research paper.

The structure of a case study is very similar to storytelling. It has a protagonist or main character, which in your case is actually a problem you are trying to solve. You can use the system of 3 Acts to make it a compelling story. It should have an introduction, rising action, a climax where transformation occurs, falling action, and a solution.

Here is a rough formula for you to use in your case study:

Problem (Act I): > Solution (Act II) > Result (Act III) > Conclusion.

Types of Case Studies

The purpose of a case study is to provide detailed reports on an event, an institution, a place, future customers, or pretty much anything. There are a few common types of case study, but the type depends on the topic. The following are the most common domains where case studies are needed:

• Historical case studies are great to learn from. Historical events have a multitude of source info offering different perspectives. There are always modern parallels where these perspectives can be applied, compared, and thoroughly analyzed.
• Problem-oriented case studies are usually used for solving problems. These are often assigned as theoretical situations where you need to immerse yourself in the situation to examine it. Imagine you’re working for a startup and you’ve just noticed a significant flaw in your product’s design. Before taking it to the senior manager, you want to do a comprehensive study on the issue and provide solutions. On a greater scale, problem-oriented case studies are a vital part of relevant socio-economic discussions.
• Cumulative case studies collect information and offer comparisons. In business, case studies are often used to tell people about the value of a product.
• Critical case studies explore the causes and effects of a certain case.
• Illustrative case studies describe certain events, investigating outcomes and lessons learned.

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Case Study Format

The case study format is typically made up of eight parts:

• Executive Summary. Explain what you will examine in the case study. Write an overview of the field you’re researching. Make a thesis statement and sum up the results of your observation in a maximum of 2 sentences.
• Background. Provide background information and the most relevant facts. Isolate the issues.
• Case Evaluation. Isolate the sections of the study you want to focus on. In it, explain why something is working or is not working.
• Proposed Solutions. Offer realistic ways to solve what isn’t working or how to improve its current condition. Explain why these solutions work by offering testable evidence.
• Conclusion. Summarize the main points from the case evaluations and proposed solutions. 6. Recommendations. Talk about the strategy that you should choose. Explain why this choice is the most appropriate.
• Implementation. Explain how to put the specific strategies into action.
• References. Provide all the citations.

How to Write a Case Study

Let's discover how to write a case study.

Setting Up the Research

When writing a case study, remember that research should always come first. Reading many different sources and analyzing other points of view will help you come up with more creative solutions. You can also conduct an actual interview to thoroughly investigate the customer story that you'll need for your case study. Including all of the necessary research, writing a case study may take some time. The research process involves doing the following:

• Define your objective. Explain the reason why you’re presenting your subject. Figure out where you will feature your case study; whether it is written, on video, shown as an infographic, streamed as a podcast, etc.
• Determine who will be the right candidate for your case study. Get permission, quotes, and other features that will make your case study effective. Get in touch with your candidate to see if they approve of being part of your work. Study that candidate’s situation and note down what caused it.
• Identify which various consequences could result from the situation. Follow these guidelines on how to start a case study: surf the net to find some general information you might find useful.
• Make a list of credible sources and examine them. Seek out important facts and highlight problems. Always write down your ideas and make sure to brainstorm.
• Focus on several key issues – why they exist, and how they impact your research subject. Think of several unique solutions. Draw from class discussions, readings, and personal experience. When writing a case study, focus on the best solution and explore it in depth. After having all your research in place, writing a case study will be easy. You may first want to check the rubric and criteria of your assignment for the correct case study structure.

Read Also: ' WHAT IS A CREDIBLE SOURCES ?'

Although your instructor might be looking at slightly different criteria, every case study rubric essentially has the same standards. Your professor will want you to exhibit 8 different outcomes:

• Correctly identify the concepts, theories, and practices in the discipline.
• Identify the relevant theories and principles associated with the particular study.
• Evaluate legal and ethical principles and apply them to your decision-making.
• Recognize the global importance and contribution of your case.
• Construct a coherent summary and explanation of the study.
• Demonstrate analytical and critical-thinking skills.
• Explain the interrelationships between the environment and nature.
• Integrate theory and practice of the discipline within the analysis.

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Case Study Outline

Let's look at the structure of an outline based on the issue of the alcoholic addiction of 30 people.

Introduction

• Statement of the issue: Alcoholism is a disease rather than a weakness of character.
• Presentation of the problem: Alcoholism is affecting more than 14 million people in the USA, which makes it the third most common mental illness there.
• Explanation of the terms: In the past, alcoholism was commonly referred to as alcohol dependence or alcohol addiction. Alcoholism is now the more severe stage of this addiction in the disorder spectrum.
• Hypotheses: Drinking in excess can lead to the use of other drugs.
• Importance of your story: How the information you present can help people with their addictions.
• Background of the story: Include an explanation of why you chose this topic.
• Presentation of analysis and data: Describe the criteria for choosing 30 candidates, the structure of the interview, and the outcomes.
• Strong argument 1: ex. X% of candidates dealing with anxiety and depression...
• Strong argument 2: ex. X amount of people started drinking by their mid-teens.
• Strong argument 3: ex. X% of respondents’ parents had issues with alcohol.
• Concluding statement: I have researched if alcoholism is a disease and found out that…
• Recommendations: Ways and actions for preventing alcohol use.

Writing a Case Study Draft

After you’ve done your case study research and written the outline, it’s time to focus on the draft. In a draft, you have to develop and write your case study by using: the data which you collected throughout the research, interviews, and the analysis processes that were undertaken. Follow these rules for the draft:

Use Data to Illustrate Key Points in Your Case Study

Even though your case study is a story, it should be based on evidence. Use as much data as possible to illustrate your point. Without the right data, your case study may appear weak and the readers may not be able to relate to your issue as much as they should. Let's see the examples from essay writing service :

‍ With data: Alcoholism is affecting more than 14 million people in the USA, which makes it the third most common mental illness there. Without data: A lot of people suffer from alcoholism in the United States.

Try to include as many credible sources as possible. You may have terms or sources that could be hard for other cultures to understand. If this is the case, you should include them in the appendix or Notes for the Instructor or Professor.

Finalizing the Draft: Checklist

After you finish drafting your case study, polish it up by answering these ‘ask yourself’ questions and think about how to end your case study:

• Check that you follow the correct case study format, also in regards to text formatting.
• Check that your work is consistent with its referencing and citation style.
• Micro-editing — check for grammar and spelling issues.
• Macro-editing — does ‘the big picture’ come across to the reader? Is there enough raw data, such as real-life examples or personal experiences? Have you made your data collection process completely transparent? Does your analysis provide a clear conclusion, allowing for further research and practice?

Problems to avoid:

• Overgeneralization – Do not go into further research that deviates from the main problem.
• Failure to Document Limitations – Just as you have to clearly state the limitations of a general research study, you must describe the specific limitations inherent in the subject of analysis.
• Failure to Extrapolate All Possible Implications – Just as you don't want to over-generalize from your case study findings, you also have to be thorough in the consideration of all possible outcomes or recommendations derived from your findings.

How to Create a Title Page and Cite a Case Study

Let's see how to create an awesome title page.

Your title page depends on the prescribed citation format. The title page should include:

• A title that attracts some attention and describes your study
• The title should have the words “case study” in it
• The title should range between 5-9 words in length
• Your name and contact information
• Your finished paper should be only 500 to 1,500 words in length.With this type of assignment, write effectively and avoid fluff

Here is a template for the APA and MLA format title page:

There are some cases when you need to cite someone else's study in your own one – therefore, you need to master how to cite a case study. A case study is like a research paper when it comes to citations. You can cite it like you cite a book, depending on what style you need.

Citation Example in MLA ‍ Hill, Linda, Tarun Khanna, and Emily A. Stecker. HCL Technologies. Boston: Harvard Business Publishing, 2008. Print.

Citation Example in APA ‍ Hill, L., Khanna, T., & Stecker, E. A. (2008). HCL Technologies. Boston: Harvard Business Publishing.

Citation Example in Chicago Hill, Linda, Tarun Khanna, and Emily A. Stecker. HCL Technologies.

Case Study Examples

To give you an idea of a professional case study example, we gathered and linked some below.

Eastman Kodak Case Study

Case Study Example: Audi Trains Mexican Autoworkers in Germany

To conclude, a case study is one of the best methods of getting an overview of what happened to a person, a group, or a situation in practice. It allows you to have an in-depth glance at the real-life problems that businesses, healthcare industry, criminal justice, etc. may face. This insight helps us look at such situations in a different light. This is because we see scenarios that we otherwise would not, without necessarily being there. If you need custom essays , try our research paper writing services .

Get Help Form Qualified Writers

Crafting a case study is not easy. You might want to write one of high quality, but you don’t have the time or expertise. If you’re having trouble with your case study, help with essay request - we'll help. EssayPro writers have read and written countless case studies and are experts in endless disciplines. Request essay writing, editing, or proofreading assistance from our custom case study writing service , and all of your worries will be gone.

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What Is A Case Study?

How to cite a case study in apa, how to write a case study.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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• Case Study | Definition, Examples & Methods

Case Study | Definition, Examples & Methods

Published on 5 May 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on 30 January 2023.

A case study is a detailed study of a specific subject, such as a person, group, place, event, organisation, or phenomenon. Case studies are commonly used in social, educational, clinical, and business research.

A case study research design usually involves qualitative methods , but quantitative methods are sometimes also used. Case studies are good for describing , comparing, evaluating, and understanding different aspects of a research problem .

Table of contents

When to do a case study, step 1: select a case, step 2: build a theoretical framework, step 3: collect your data, step 4: describe and analyse the case.

A case study is an appropriate research design when you want to gain concrete, contextual, in-depth knowledge about a specific real-world subject. It allows you to explore the key characteristics, meanings, and implications of the case.

Case studies are often a good choice in a thesis or dissertation . They keep your project focused and manageable when you don’t have the time or resources to do large-scale research.

You might use just one complex case study where you explore a single subject in depth, or conduct multiple case studies to compare and illuminate different aspects of your research problem.

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Once you have developed your problem statement and research questions , you should be ready to choose the specific case that you want to focus on. A good case study should have the potential to:

• Provide new or unexpected insights into the subject
• Challenge or complicate existing assumptions and theories
• Propose practical courses of action to resolve a problem
• Open up new directions for future research

Unlike quantitative or experimental research, a strong case study does not require a random or representative sample. In fact, case studies often deliberately focus on unusual, neglected, or outlying cases which may shed new light on the research problem.

If you find yourself aiming to simultaneously investigate and solve an issue, consider conducting action research . As its name suggests, action research conducts research and takes action at the same time, and is highly iterative and flexible. 

However, you can also choose a more common or representative case to exemplify a particular category, experience, or phenomenon.

While case studies focus more on concrete details than general theories, they should usually have some connection with theory in the field. This way the case study is not just an isolated description, but is integrated into existing knowledge about the topic. It might aim to:

• Exemplify a theory by showing how it explains the case under investigation
• Expand on a theory by uncovering new concepts and ideas that need to be incorporated
• Challenge a theory by exploring an outlier case that doesn’t fit with established assumptions

To ensure that your analysis of the case has a solid academic grounding, you should conduct a literature review of sources related to the topic and develop a theoretical framework . This means identifying key concepts and theories to guide your analysis and interpretation.

There are many different research methods you can use to collect data on your subject. Case studies tend to focus on qualitative data using methods such as interviews, observations, and analysis of primary and secondary sources (e.g., newspaper articles, photographs, official records). Sometimes a case study will also collect quantitative data .

The aim is to gain as thorough an understanding as possible of the case and its context.

In writing up the case study, you need to bring together all the relevant aspects to give as complete a picture as possible of the subject.

How you report your findings depends on the type of research you are doing. Some case studies are structured like a standard scientific paper or thesis, with separate sections or chapters for the methods , results , and discussion .

Others are written in a more narrative style, aiming to explore the case from various angles and analyse its meanings and implications (for example, by using textual analysis or discourse analysis ).

In all cases, though, make sure to give contextual details about the case, connect it back to the literature and theory, and discuss how it fits into wider patterns or debates.

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The impact of close reading strategies on individual innovativeness and life skills: preservice teachers.

1. Introduction

• Innovators: Innovators are individuals who are willing to try new ideas, curious, willing to take risks, enterprising and well educated, and have a vision.
• Pioneers: People in this category, who come after innovators, support innovations and convey them, and are role models and guides in society regarding innovations.
• Questioners: These people, who come after pioneers in supporting innovations, adopt innovations, but are cautious about implementing innovations and are not willing to take risks.
• Skeptics: These people, who come after questioners, are more skeptical than average individuals in adopting innovations; they remain hesitant towards innovations due to factors such as social pressure and economic reasons.
• Traditionalists: These people, who are the last to adopt innovations, are prejudiced against innovations and change, do not want to go beyond their traditions, and tend to ignore and delay innovations by acting according to the perspective of the previous generation.
• Do close reading strategies create a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores on individual innovativeness of preservice Turkish language teachers?
• Do close reading strategies create a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores on life skills of preservice Turkish language teachers?
• What is the distribution of pre-test and post-test scores on individual innovativeness according to gender?
• What are the views of Turkish teacher candidates on the impact of using the close reading strategy on individual innovativeness traits and life skills?

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. research model, 2.2. study group, 2.3. data collection tools, 2.3.1. individual innovativeness scale, 2.3.2. life skills scale, 2.3.3. semi-structured interview form.

• What are the contributions of the close reading strategy to your reading skills?
• What are the contributions of the close reading strategy to your life skills and individual innovativeness?

2.4. Data Collection

• Identification: The instructor names the strategy.
• Teaching: The purpose of the strategy is explained, including the benefits of learning the strategy and its importance.
• Usage Explanation: Information on where the strategy can be used (e.g., while listening to a lecture, reading a text, post-reading) is provided.
• Usage Characteristics: Explanation is provided of the characteristics of the strategy and what to pay attention to while using it.
• Modeling: The teacher demonstrates the use of the strategy by thinking aloud, externalizing cognitive processes.
• Practice: Students are given the opportunity to practice the strategy. During this trial phase, they can adjust their skills in a classroom setting prior to practice.
• Group Discussion and Evaluation: Students evaluate and discuss their correct or incorrect use of the strategy as a group, encouraging them to monitor and assess their strategy use.

2.5. Data Analysis

3. findings, 3.1. quantitative findings on the impact of the close reading strategy on life skills and individual innovativeness features, 3.2. qualitative findings on the effects of the close reading strategy on turkish teacher candidates’ reading skills, life skills, and individual innovativeness.

It helped me approach texts from different perspectives. (F, 1)

It made me think critically and look at a text from different angles rather than taking it as it is. (M, 1)

Reading using different techniques motivates a person. Now, when I read books, I will use techniques from different genres. This will give me different experiences. (F, 8)

I realized that the texts I read have deeper meanings, not just one interpretation. (F, 17)

The texts we read contributed to my change as they were disruptive to my stereotypical knowledge. (F, 19)

Using the close reading strategy added a new style to my reading habits. (M, 3)

Asking different questions and doing it step by step was fun and educational. Reading in detail to find answers to the questions in the text helped us understand the texts better. (F, 11)

I can better find the cause-and-effect relationships and connections in the text. (M, 5)

I learned to look at life from different angles, to derive meaning from everything that comes our way, and to realize that nothing happens by chance. (F, 5)

I learned to see even a stone in my path as meaningful. (M, 3)

It made me open to new ideas and listen to others’ thoughts with respect. (F, 18)

I felt the need to question things after this practice. (F, 17)

Now I look at things from a broader perspective and question them, and I am much more open to new ideas as an individual. (F, 21)

Previously, I was even afraid to say the word ‘create’, let alone think critically about certain topics; I was afraid to think at all. (F, 4)

I realized that I was thinking one-dimensionally and couldn’t look at events critically. (F, 6)

I think it contributed to my development in problem-solving. (F, 11)

Since it developed my questioning and thinking skills, my decision-making skills also improved along with it. (F, 8)

With this strategy, I learned to better recognize my own thoughts and feelings. (F, 17)

Now, I started to think more deeply about a topic, event, or text. (F, 25)

I now communicate according to the characteristics of individuals. (F, 19)

It was beneficial in terms of decision-making and problem-solving. (M, 1)

I once again realized how necessary it is to see from others’ perspectives. (F, 15)

It helped me recognize my own thoughts and feelings. (M, 2)

4. Conclusions and Discussion

5. recommendations.

• The close reading strategy can be utilized for the development of life skills and individual innovation skills.
• The close reading strategy should be included in the curriculum starting from primary education and continuing to higher education, and its use should be extended to different levels across this range.
• The effectiveness of the close reading strategy on comprehension of narrative texts and poetry, as well as informative texts, can be examined.
• This strategy was implemented with preservice Turkish teachers, and its effects on different educational levels can be examined in future research.
• This study examined the strategy’s contributions to life skills, individual innovativeness, and the reading process. Future research could also examine its effects on other language skills such as writing, speaking, and listening.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Informed consent statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Baki, Y. The Impact of Close Reading Strategies on Individual Innovativeness and Life Skills: Preservice Teachers. Behav. Sci. 2024 , 14 , 816. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090816

Baki Y. The Impact of Close Reading Strategies on Individual Innovativeness and Life Skills: Preservice Teachers. Behavioral Sciences . 2024; 14(9):816. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090816

Baki, Yasemin. 2024. "The Impact of Close Reading Strategies on Individual Innovativeness and Life Skills: Preservice Teachers" Behavioral Sciences 14, no. 9: 816. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090816

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• Published: 07 September 2024

Student involvement and innovative teaching methods in a biophilic design education pilot elective course in interior architecture

• Fulya Özbey   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-5902-2165 1 , 2 &
• Simge Bardak Denerel 1  

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications volume  11 , Article number:  1155 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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• Environmental studies

Biophilic design has gained popularity in interior design areas owing to its numerous advantages. Nevertheless, globally, Interior Architecture/Interior Architecture and Environmental Design departments lack adequate biophilic design courses in their curricula. This research investigates the impact of involving students in syllabus design and applying innovative teaching methods in a pilot elective course focused on biophilic design in interior spaces on student engagement and course sustainability. A new pilot elective course was introduced in the 2022–2023 Spring Semester at the Interior Architecture Department, Faculty of Architecture, Near East University, aiming to establish an enduring and captivating learning environment for students. Initially, a focus group study was conducted to measure students’ awareness of biophilic design and integrate their ideas regarding innovative learning methods into the syllabus for an engaging elective course. Strategies like interactive learning tools, group tasks, and peer assessments were incorporated throughout the course to enhance engagement. Analysis of end-of-course surveys and student observations revealed an augmented awareness of biophilic design among students and a positive influence of innovative learning methods on course sustainability. Thus, the study suggests that an elective course offers the potential to mitigate the deficiency of biophilic design integration in undergraduate programs, augmenting students’ awareness in this field. Moreover, new elective courses could deliver more sustainable and engaging learning experiences for enrolled students when structured through student involvement and innovative learning methods.

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Introduction.

The historical human-nature relationship has been disrupted by industrialization, leading to a growing recognition of the need for a mindful approach in the 21st century. Biophilia, our innate connection with nature, has evolved into Biophilic Design, enriching constructed spaces with natural elements. This design approach has proven advantages, enhancing workplace productivity, stress reduction, education outcomes, and healthcare recovery while aligning with sustainability efforts (Browning et al. 2014 ). Therefore, the incorporation of biophilic design in educational curricula has accumulated significant attention due to its confirmed benefits and to prepare students to meet industry demands because when considering the practice of interior architecture in the 21st century, it is observed that the understanding of biophilic design has been embraced by designers more than ever before in interior spatial design (Demirbaş & Demirbaş, 2019 ). Despite its acknowledged benefits, undergraduate education in biophilic design remains scarce, notably in Interior Architecture (IA) and Environmental Design (IAED). Few universities globally, in Türkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), offer specific courses in this field. According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Art & Design indicates that out of the top 10 universities with IAED or IA departments, five universities do not offer any courses related to biophilic design. While one university includes a course on biomimicry, three lack accessible detailed course content. Only Aalto University offers an explicit course on biophilia, which is called “Biofilia ABC,” and a biophilia lab that emphasizes the integration of biophilic design into research and learning environments through interdisciplinary collaboration. The gap in biophilic design education is no different in Türkiye and the TRNC, where there are 84 universities with IAED or IA departments (41 having IAED departments 41 having IA departments, and 2 universities offering both), biophilic design education is significantly lacking. Out of these institutions, only 1 offers a dedicated “biophilic design” course at the undergraduate level (starting from 2023 to 2024 Fall Semester in İstanbul Galata University), and only 4 universities include the term “biophilia” in any course syllabus. Most universities have courses that focus on sub-topics of biophilic design, such as indoor landscaping, biomimicry, or the nature-human relationship and its representation. Surprisingly, 40 universities do not include any terms or subjects related to “biophilia” in their course names within the curriculum, further highlighting the scarcity of biophilic design education in the region. However, there’s a high demand for this knowledge among interior architects, indicating an educational gap that requires attention also supported by the survey conducted by Doğan ( 2021 ) targeting interior architects and space users, with a sample size of 285 respondents (139 interior architects and 146 general space users). The results indicated that 107 of the participating interior architects had not received formal education in biophilic design, underscoring the absence of biophilic design within many Turkish universities. However, 111 of the participants possessed knowledge of biophilic design, suggesting that they had sought information from external sources. To bridge the gap and promote biophilic design education at the undergraduate level, a dedicated elective course covering theoretical foundations and practical applications of biophilic design principles is crucial. By establishing a comprehensive biophilic design course, universities can equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to create sustainable, nature-inspired interior spaces and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. However, understanding students’ course selection motives, such as interest and perceived benefits, is crucial. Involving students in syllabus design enhances communication and caters to diverse learning styles, making courses more effective. This research investigates the impact of student involvement in creating a pilot elective on biophilic design for interior spaces. It explores how innovative teaching methods and course preparation influence student engagement and course longevity. Also, this research uses qualitative and quantitative methods, while delving into three key questions:

What is the awareness/knowledge level of undergraduate IA and IAED students in Türkiye and the TRNC regarding Biophilic Design?

Does a student-involved course syllabus preparation process enhance the sustainability and student commitment in biophilic design courses?

What challenges do instructors face in elective courses for Generation Z (Gen Z) students in IA and IAED programs? How can these be addressed to establish participatory course structures and enhance learning outcomes?

Literature review

Biophilic design is currently a popular topic, but its full integration into IA and/or IAED curricula is still lacking. In addition, the content and method of teaching the designed course are important for the biophilic design to take its place in education because elective courses in the curriculum offer students the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their individuality. Since this study delves into the effects of students taking part in developing a trial elective focusing on biophilic design for interior spaces, it aims to examine the influence of creative teaching approaches and course planning on student participation and the sustainability of the course this literature review includes two sections. The first one is biophilic design and its applications in interior architecture, and the second one is the role of elective courses in architectural education.

Biophilic design and its applications in interior architecture

Throughout history, humans have coexisted with and drawn valuable insights from the natural world (Turner et al. 2004 ; Wilson, 1996 ). However, the industrial revolution and global urbanization have severed this connection, resulting in significant environmental damage (Çorakçı, 2016 ). The civilizations that once dominated nature in the 18th and 19th centuries faced dire consequences for their environmental exploitation in the 20th century, leading to a growing realization in the 21st century of the need for a more conscientious approach to nature (Çorakçı, 2016 ). Erich Fromm introduced the concept of “biophilia,” signifying a deep love for all living beings (Heerwagen et al. 2012 ). Edward O. Wilson and Stephen R. Kellert expanded on this concept, proposing in “The Biophilia Hypothesis” (1993) that humans possess an innate inclination to connect with nature and other life forms (Kellert and Wilson, 1993 ). Biophilia is not an instinct-like breathing but emerges from biological tendencies shaped by learning and experiences, including emotions such as love, hate, and fear. Sociocultural factors influence its expression, evident in the symbolic use of nature in myths, religious beliefs, and meditations (Kellert and Wilson, 1993 ). Stephen Kellert’s research on biophilia led to its integration into architectural design, exemplified in “Building for Life” (2005). This laid the foundation for “Biophilic Design,” solidified in the initial edition of “Biophilic Design” (2008) with contributions from various researchers, defining it as “an innovative approach emphasizing the essential preservation, enrichment, and restoration of the positive human-nature connection within built environments” (Kellert et al. 2011 ).

Based on various research and perspectives, the principles and applications of biophilic design have been subject to numerous categorizations (Kellert et al. 2011 ; Browning et al. 2014 ). Nonetheless, at the core of all predominant categorizations lies the central theme of seamlessly incorporating elements of nature and natural phenomena into the constructed environment. In their seminal work, “Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science and Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life,” Kellert et al. ( 2011 ) delineated six fundamental principles of biophilic design, which encompass “Environmental Features, Natural Shapes and Forms, Natural Patterns and Processes, Light and Space, Place-Based Relationships, and Evolved Human-Nature Relationships.” These principles collectively offer a comprehensive framework for the establishment of harmonious human-built environments.

The application of biophilic design principles within interior spaces involves the deliberate integration of nature-inspired elements to foster a more harmonious and productive milieu. Common manifestations of biophilic applications include the utilization of natural lighting, incorporation of indoor flora, utilization of natural materials, the inclusion of water features, and the provision of vistas that connect with natural settings. The empirical evidence underscores the multifaceted advantages of biophilic design on human well-being and productivity. For instance, a study conducted by Sanchez et al. ( 2018 ) substantiates the notion that biophilic design features enhance workplace performance. In a subsequent study by Aristizabal et al. ( 2021 ), it was established that a multisensory biophilic environment not only improved cognitive performance but also mitigated stress levels while enhancing overall satisfaction with the workplace environment. Furthermore, research conducted by Sayed et al. ( 2021 ) has demonstrated that the incorporation of biophilic principles into educational spaces engenders improved concentration levels, higher attendance rates, and enhanced academic performance among students. Beyond the realms of work and education, the beneficial impact of biophilic design extends to healthcare settings, as underscored by studies conducted by Samir ( 2021 ) and Totaforti ( 2018 ). These studies reveal that biophilic design elements contribute to alleviating patient fatigue and expediting the healing process. Lastly, Newman et al. ( 2012 ) underscore the potential economic advantages associated with the integration of biophilia into design practices. This includes reduced energy consumption, enhanced biodiversity, and, in addition, improvements in well-being and productivity, ultimately aligning with sustainability and ecological preservation efforts.

The role of elective courses in architectural education

Universities offer students various opportunities to pursue their academic goals. Elective courses, in particular, allow students to pursue their aspirations, develop virtual goals, and broaden their educational content (Movchan and Zarishniak, 2017 ). Also, elective courses enable students to study subjects that satisfy their interests, abilities, and career determination while seeking to develop the individuality of each student (Ghonim and Eweda, 2018 ). Architectural education is a multidisciplinary field that imparts both technical knowledge and social responsibility to students. Integrating elective courses into the curriculum can ensure a well-rounded education and exposure to a diverse range of subjects. This is essential for developing a holistic understanding of the role of architecture in society and the importance of ethical principles and values for architects (Ghonim and Eweda, 2018 ). Thus, there arises a compelling need to establish a novel pedagogical framework emphasizing self-directed learning among graduating architects guided by their mentors. Consequently, educational models must emphasize the cultivation of imaginative thinking, keen observation, and active engagement, especially when incorporating innovative instructional resources aligned with these objectives (Fernandez-Antolin et al. 2021 ). The flexible nature of the elective factor allows for dynamic updates to reflect contemporary issues and developments in the field, marketplace, and society. When offering new elective courses, considerations should include program orientation, student interests and needs, and faculty specialization (Ghonim and Eweda, 2018 ).

Additionally, to provide an effective elective course in architectural education, it is crucial to not only consider the students’ interests and needs but also their reasons for selecting an elective course. In the study conducted by Ting and Lee ( 2012 ), an investigation was undertaken to explore the various factors that exert an influence on students’ selection of elective courses. The researchers identified a multitude of determinants, which include the perceived level of interest in the subject matter, the perceived difficulty of the course content, the perceived leniency of the instructor, the potential acquisition of future career skills, the impact of external influences, the instructor’s popularity or personality, the timing of the class in terms of the day of the week and meeting hour, the reputation of the university, the suitability of the subject matter, and the class size. Another aspect of an effective elective course is the level of student involvement in the course. This process is not only limited by the course duration but might start from the syllabus design process. Research conducted by Cook-Sather ( 2014 ) has underscored the significance of involving students in the design of syllabi, highlighting its positive impact on teacher-student communication and collaboration. This proactive approach has enabled educators to gain a deeper understanding of students’ motivations and learning styles, facilitating the tailoring of instructional methods to better suit individual needs. Furthermore, a study conducted by Bovill et al. ( 2011 ) has demonstrated that the inclusion of students in syllabus design has resulted in heightened levels of self-regulation and metacognitive awareness. Students have become more attuned to their learning strategies, fostering an increased propensity for engaging in self-directed learning practices. Practitioner-researchers Zereyalp and Buğra ( 2019 ) have ascertained that the incorporation of students’ voices in syllabus development substantially contributes to the efficacy of the syllabus. This contribution manifests in the form of fostering open and constructive communication with students, thereby better aligning the syllabus with their needs and expectations.

Methodology

This study adopted a mixed-method research approach, which integrated focus group studies, interviews, case studies, and participant observation methods. Since this research involves gathering both qualitative and quantitative data together into a single platform to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the topic from various perspectives, including those of students and instructors, a mixed research approach is considered well-suited for this study (Mulisa, 2022 ). The research methodology consisted of three distinct sequential steps.

In the initial step, the emphasis was on preparing the syllabus of the pilot elective course (case study) and addressing the first two research questions. Data collection was primarily facilitated through focus group studies and interviews, with subsequent qualitative analysis applied.

The second step involved data collection during the course period, treated as a case study for addressing both the second and third research questions. During this phase, participants (comprising students enrolled in the pilot elective course) were subject to observation, alongside the administration of concise questionnaires. Subsequently, the results obtained from these questionnaires, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative data, underwent rigorous analysis.

The third and final step entailed comprehensively analyzing the amassed data to substantiate the study’s hypotheses.

A succinct summary of the research methods and evaluation techniques utilized throughout the study is presented in Fig. 1 , the research methodology flowchart.

Methodology flowchart.

Data collection

In the initial phase of data collection for this study, a pilot focus group investigation was undertaken with five sophomore students from Yaşar University’s (YU) Department IAED. These students were selected for their qualifications aligning with the primary focus group participants. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the reliability of the research questions, as outlined by Nagle and Williams ( 2013 ), which had been prepared for the forthcoming focus group studies. The designated questions were sequentially presented to the students, and their responses were meticulously evaluated. The outcomes of this pilot focus group analysis indicated that the formulated questions were sufficiently effective in eliciting the necessary data for the subsequent primary focus group study. The selection of participants for the focus group sessions was carried out through the convenience sampling method to have individuals with characteristics of the overall population (students who enrolled in the elective course), proposed by Nagle and Williams ( 2013 ). The focus group inquiries were methodically administered to the students, and the ensuing responses were subjected to qualitative analysis. These focus group sessions were conducted on November 22nd and 23rd, 2022, involving ten students from Near East University (NEU), and subsequently on December 1st and 2nd, 2022, with the participation of eight students from YU.

The interview phase of the research was executed on November 22nd and December 2nd, 2022, involving three instructors from the Faculty of Architecture, each responsible for teaching various elective courses at YU and NEU. During these interviews, the instructors were probed about their approaches to curriculum development, the selection of assessment methods, strategies employed to foster student engagement, utilization of innovative pedagogical techniques, and their course adaptation procedures based on end-of-semester feedback.

The insights garnered from both the instructor interviews and the focus group sessions constitute the primary data sources for the case study under investigation. The subsequent step in the data collection process for this study was designed to coincide with the case study. During this stage, the students enrolled in the pilot elective course served as subjects of observation, while periodic administration of concise online but with clear, targeted questions that aligned with the learning objectives and teaching effectiveness of the course questionnaires allowed for ongoing data acquisition. The reason for choosing the online survey method for the end-semester feedback is that online surveys are straightforward, anonymous, and time-efficient (Moss & Hendry, 2002 ). Also, emphasizing the anonymity and confidentiality of responses can encourage students to provide honest feedback to have more reliable results even with a small group of sample. Last but not least, the necessary permissions were obtained from the NEU Scientific Research Ethics Committee for all stages requiring data collection.

Data analysis plan

In the initial phase of data collection, a comprehensive data analysis plan was formulated, which encompassed the incorporation of data derived from primary and secondary sources. The data amassed during this first step underwent a rigorous evaluation employing qualitative methodologies. Subsequently, an insightful case study was methodically created, drawing from the analytical findings obtained from the gathered data.

In the subsequent phase, which unfolded within the context of the aforementioned case study, the participants were subjected to systematic observations, and periodic surveys were administered to solicit their responses. Data collection culminated upon the conclusion of the case study. To facilitate a comprehensive analysis of these diverse data sources, a well-structured approach was devised, combining qualitative techniques for the assessment of participant observations and a blend of both qualitative and quantitative methods to scrutinize the results derived from the periodic surveys. In addition, the reliability of the course evaluation results was validated by triangulating the survey findings with other assessment measures, such as students’ academic performance or assignment quality.

Ultimately, the data at hand was subjected to a robust interpretative process, and it was the intent to engage in a thoughtful deliberation of the hypotheses in accordance with the insights gleaned from the case study.

Focus group study and interviews

For this study, pilot elective courses titled “TMF 444 İç Mimarlıkta Biyofilik Tasarım “ and “FAE424 Biophilic Design in Interior Architecture” were offered in both Turkish and English language departments during the 2022–2023 Spring Semester at the Faculty of Architecture, Department of Interior Architecture, Near East University. However, before opening the courses in line with the stated objectives and methodologies of the research, students were actively involved in the curriculum development processes of these courses, with the aim of creating a more efficient and dynamic elective course. Additionally, the opinions of various faculty members were sought.

Initially, a focus group study with open-ended questions was conducted with a total of 18 students, 10 from NEU’s and 8 from YU’s Faculty of Architecture. The responses from this study were evaluated using the MAXQDA 2022 (VERBI Software, 2021 ) program and subjected to the keyword analysis method. The study sought to ascertain the student’s familiarity with the concept of biophilic design, their expectations for an upcoming elective course on this subject, their preferences for course activities and assessment methods, their views on effective teaching techniques, and their integration into academic courses, as well as the motivating factors driving their active engagement in these courses. The analysis highlights from the focus group study are summarized in Table 1 .

The highlights from the interviews with the instructors indicated that it is important to approach students in a friendlier manner and use innovative teaching techniques to create a more engaging class environment while considering students’ voices to develop the course in general.

Course period

After evaluating the data in Table 1 and the interview outputs, course contents for TMF 444 and FAE 424 were developed following the NEU course content development rules. An overview of the course syllabus is presented in Table 2 .

The 14-week course commenced with an introductory week, determining the student demographic, midterm and final assessments, and administering a survey on students’ perceptions of biophilic design, innovative learning methods, and in-class motivations. Weeks 2–8 predominantly focused on various topics such as the concept of biophilia, patterns and health impact of biophilic design, differences and similarities between biophilic design and sustainable design, the concept of biophilic cities, and some practical ways of incorporating biophilic design principals to the interior spaces as well as the examination of example case studies. Week 9 centered around the midterm presentation, involving the analysis of a chosen structure based on biophilic design criteria. Weeks 10–14 were allocated for the creation of an interior design project emphasizing biophilic design, followed by desk critiques. Ultimately, developed projects were submitted as the final assessment.

In the proposed pilot elective course, 26 students enrolled in the Turkish section, while 11 students registered for the English section. Among these, 20 students attended the Turkish course, and 7 students attended the English course for the whole semester. The overall distribution of students by department and class includes 16 Interior Architecture students (14 undergraduate 3rd year, 2 undergraduate 4th year) and 9 Architecture students (1 undergraduate 1st year, pursuing a double major, 1 undergraduate 2nd year, 4 undergraduate 3rd year, and 3 undergraduate 4th year). Given that a substantial proportion of students enrolled in both FAE 424 and TMF 444 courses are representative of Generation Z, this study also investigates the challenges encountered by instructors in this demographic context. As the course unfolds, the difficulties of being an instructor in a class dominated by Gen Z learners are explored. The paramount question becomes: how can these challenges be effectively addressed, and what methods can be employed to construct a participatory course structure that enhances learning outcomes? Drawing inspiration from contemporary educational research, including works by Orr et al. ( 2021 ), Saxena and Mishra ( 2021 ), Szabó et al. ( 2021 ), Chan and Lee ( 2023 ), Mohr and Mohr ( 2017 ), Marie and Kaur ( 2020 ), and Jaleniauskiene and Juceviciene ( 2015 ) this study consolidates diverse strategies to enhance the student engagement and participation for teaching Gen Z in higher education. As, Orr advocates for an academic coaching model, emphasizing transformational learning. Saxena proposes gamification as a motivational tool, and Szabó underscores the significance of incorporating various information technologies, such as e-learning and gamification, to boost student motivation and skill development Chan’s study delves into Gen Z students’ perceptions of generative AI in higher education, noting their optimism for its benefits—enhanced productivity and personalized learning. However, it emphasizes the concerns raised by Gen X and Gen Y teachers regarding overreliance and ethical implications, highlighting the importance of integrating technology with traditional teaching methods for a more effective learning environment. Mohr’s study emphasizes the significance of understanding generational profiles to improve course assignments and communication approaches. The findings emphasize the need for instructors to adapt teaching methods to align with Gen Z’s preferences for technology-driven and visually engaging educational experiences, and Marie’s research highlights Gen Z’s inclination towards a digitized learning environment, emphasizing the importance of adapting academic opportunities to meet their diverse needs and foster critical 21st-century skills like critical thinking and creativity. Finally, Jaleniauskienė's study focuses on reshaping educational environments to cater to Gen Z’s learning preferences. The recommendations span from redesigning physical and non-classroom spaces to accommodate diverse learning styles, integrating active learning methodologies, fostering collaborative environments (both physical and virtual), and leveraging technology as mindtools to enhance cognitive functions and engage visually oriented learners. In summary, advocation for a multifaceted approach that integrates technology, personalized coaching, gamification, and varied pedagogical strategies to create engaging, transformative, and inclusive learning environments for Gen Z learners.

Therefore, interactive presentations were prepared during the course, leveraging Genially (Genially Web, S.L., 2021 ) and Gamma (Gamma Tech, Inc., 2022 ), as they facilitated engagement, aligning with the 5 students who identified the fluidity of course delivery as a significant motivator for participation. To maintain interactivity and motivation, quizzes at the end of the course were conducted through Quizizz (Gupta and Cheenath, 2015 ), with a 10-point bonus awarded to the student with the highest quiz average throughout the semester. Moreover, practical exercises were conducted utilizing Miro (Khusid and Shardin, 2011 ) to incorporate active learning strategies, thereby cultivating collaborative learning settings. A specific instance of the Miro exercise is illustrated in Fig. 2 .

In-class exercise by Miro.

While implementing the assignments, based on the findings from the focus group study, even if the majority of students expressed a preference for being able to choose assignment types, it was acknowledged in interviews that this approach might lead to potential issues, such as providing enough sources for each type of assignment or concerns related to students blaming each other for grades, finding others’ assignments easier, etc. Consequently, for this pilot course, it was decided that the assignment types would be determined by the course instructor, and for midterm and final assessments, students would be consulted at the beginning of the course to reach a decision by majority agreement. Additionally, as 8 of the students expressed the utility of peer evaluations, and recognized their potential to enhance motivation and interest in the course, a 10-point peer evaluation criterion was incorporated into one of the assignments and midterm presentations. The assignment incorporating peer assessment was a brief research task, designed to encourage students to share their findings during class and contribute to each other’s ideas. The assignment brief and grading criteria are outlined in Fig. 3 .

Assignment 1 brief and grading criteria.

For the midterm assessment, students were expected to select a structure and analyze it based on the principles of biophilic design, presenting their analysis during class. Peer assessment was incorporated during the midterm too, where students evaluated each other’s presentations. Last but not least, in the final assessment, influenced by both the preference for project submissions by 2 of the students and the suggestion of integration with project or studio courses 2 students were required to choose an area from project courses. They were expected to develop their designs for three weeks based on the desk critics, express them through technical drawings, and provide a written explanation of how they integrated biophilic design principles. The midterm and final briefs, along with grading criteria, are illustrated in Fig. 4 .

Midterm and final briefs.

Additionally, although field trips were identified as a factor that could enhance student motivation and contribute to achieving the learning outcomes of the course, they could not be added to the course content due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, an exploration of a diminutive village distinguished by a plethora of biophilic attributes in the TRNC was undertaken in collaboration with two students from the course. The ensuing research findings were subsequently disseminated and made publicly accessible via the webpage hosted by the biophilic cities network (Özbey et al. 2023 ).

This section includes the results of qualitative and quantitative assessment surveys conducted at the beginning and end of the course. The findings in this section are broadly analyzed in the discussion section.

Pre-course expectations and motivations

A brief survey was administered to 27 enrolled students within the initial week of the course to measure their awareness and expectations concerning biophilic design, the course syllabus, and innovative learning methodologies. Furthermore, the delineation of a course syllabus was elucidated to students, and the impact of a student-contributed syllabus on enrolled students was examined. Out of the enrolled students, 25 participated in the survey, and the outcomes, encompassing their knowledge levels and application of biophilic design principles, have been consolidated in Fig. 5 .

Summary of pre-course survey (Biophilic design knowledge).

According to the table, participants’ familiarity with biophilic design varied across the terms “biophilia” and “biophilic design,” with a higher level of recognition for the former term than the latter. However, awareness of the “Six Principles of Biophilic Design” was notably lower, indicating a more diverse range of responses across the spectrum from familiarity to unfamiliarity with these principles. There’s a strong consensus among respondents that biophilic design should be integrated into interior design, particularly in emphasizing the importance of designs that amalgamate nature, humanity, and architecture. Participants largely acknowledge that the weakening of connections between nature and humanity can adversely affect human life. There’s substantial agreement on the positive impact of natural light and ventilation on health, success, and work productivity in spaces. The use of “plants” as a design element in interiors garners notable agreement, while the inclusion of a “water element” seems to have a mixed response.

When examining students’ expectations regarding course syllabus and innovative learning methods, a majority of respondents concur that the provided learning outcomes and resources exhibit direct relevance to the course. Furthermore, there is a prevailing consensus indicating that the assessment methods delineated in the syllabus maintain a sense of equilibrium. A significant majority of students express confidence in their ability to extrapolate and apply the course content to other academic subjects. The recognition of abundant opportunities for peer interaction, notably through group discussions and activities, is acknowledged by a substantial number of participants. Regarding familiarity with interactive learning tools such as Sli.do, Padlet, Kahoot, and similar platforms, respondents exhibit varying degrees of awareness and experience with these tools. A comprehensive summary of the distribution of students’ survey responses is outlined in Fig. 6 .

Summary of pre-course survey (evaluation, of course, syllabi, and innovative learning methods).

Post-course reflections and feedback

Feedback on the co-design process, learning environment, and their influence on student engagement.

Out of the 27 students attending the course, 23 voluntarily responded to the survey conducted at the end of the semester. When considering the effects of the student-contributed course syllabus and the interactive course format on student obligations, it becomes evident that students derive pleasure from the interactive format and perceive the course as a conducive space for engaging with their peers. Moreover, students found the short quizzes administered at the end of the course both enjoyable and beneficial. The evaluation methods, such as assignments, midterms, and finals determined based on the preferences of students enrolled in the class and who attended focus group sessions, have been deemed sufficient by a significant majority of students for assessing and presenting their knowledge. Additionally, students expressed enjoyment and perceived usefulness from the group activities and peer assessments conducted during the course. The responses of students regarding the co-design process and its impact on their engagement have been summarized in Fig. 7 .

The responses of students regarding the co-design process and its impact on their engagement.

Feedback on the biophilic design knowledge, learning outcomes, and course instructor

In the end-of-term evaluation survey responded to by 23 students, in addition to gathering insights on students’ perspectives concerning the course period and assessment methods, inquiries were also posed regarding their understanding of biophilic design concepts, perceptions of the course’s learning outcomes, and the instructor’s behavior during the class.

In the students’ end-of-term survey regarding biophilic design, a notable pattern emerges: the respondents consistently exhibit a significant degree of familiarity and comprehension spanning a wide range of biophilic design concepts. This pattern underscores a robust knowledge improvement within the surveyed group, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of the biophilic design domain. According to the survey results, there is a high level of agreement regarding the awareness of specific terminologies associated with biophilic design. However, there are slight differences in the degree of familiarity with specific aspects of biophilic design. Additionally, a substantial majority expressed confidence in their capability to extrapolate and apply the course content to other academic disciplines. Furthermore, students conveyed a sense of acquiring substantial knowledge and awareness about biophilic design during the course, enabling them to engage in comprehensive discussions on the subject and confidently evaluate the built environment using biophilic design principles by the course’s conclusion. The participants’ responses regarding their knowledge of biophilic design have been summarized in Fig. 8 .

The responses of students regarding the biophilic design knowledge.

About the evaluation of learning outcomes and instructor’s performance, there was a notable consensus among respondents. Nineteen students strongly agreed, and four students agreed that the learning outcomes were intricately linked to the course content. Moreover, a significant majority of students strongly agreed or agreed that the course provided pertinent resources aligning with the subject matter. Notably, students exhibited high positivity towards the course instructor, indicating satisfaction and understanding in various aspects. They strongly agreed or agreed that the instructor’s explanations regarding assessment methods were lucid, demonstrating a clear grasp of evaluation criteria. Moreover, students found the instructor’s approach in the course to be fitting and the responses indicate a high level of endorsement for the course. Twenty respondents strongly agreed, while three respondents agreed that they would recommend the course to others. The responses related to students’ perceptions of learning outcomes, the instructor, and the overall quality of the course are presented in Fig. 9 for reference.

Evaluation of learning outcomes, instructor’s behavior, and course quality.

Findings from the student co-design process

In the context of IA/IAED teaching, the integration of student co-design processes into elective courses is not a deeply studied area. As mentioned in the introduction part, while there are several courses addressing biophilic design principles, there’s a noticeable gap in the literature regarding specific content and teaching methodologies employed in these courses. Therefore, this study not only delves into students’ perceptions and preferences but also aims to bridge this gap by showcasing how student input can enrich course content and delivery. The findings from the student co-design process provided valuable insights into various aspects of the course, including the students’ familiarity with biophilic design, their expectations for the elective course, their preferences for course activities and assessment methods, their views on effective teaching techniques, and the motivating factors driving their active engagement in the course. The majority preferred a practice-based course, indicating a desire for hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, suggestions for field trips, theory-based learning, online delivery, workshop sessions, multimedia, and flexible design options were also mentioned. These preferences highlight the importance of incorporating a variety of teaching methods and activities to cater to different learning styles and interests. The students’ preferences for course activities and assessment methods were also explored. Field trips, model-making assignments, discussion and debate sessions, and group work were suggested by the students. The majority of students found group work highly beneficial, while some expressed uncertainty. Peer evaluations were perceived as essential by a significant portion of students, although reservations were also expressed. End-of-course quizzes were valued by half of the students, but reservations were also present. These findings indicate the importance of incorporating a mix of individual and collaborative activities, as well as diverse assessment methods, to cater to the preferences and needs of the students. In terms of assessment type and selection preferences, project-based assignments and presentations were favored by the majority of students. Written assignments were also preferred by a significant portion of students, while research assignments were less favored. The students’ preferences for assignment types and their involvement in the selection process were also explored. The majority of students preferred to select their own assignment types, while some preferred a collective decision through group discussion. Only a small percentage believed that course instructors should determine the assignment types. These findings suggest that involving students in the assignment selection process can enhance their engagement and motivation. The students’ preferences for assessment methods were similar to their preferences for assignment types. Project-based assignments, presentations, and written assignments were the most preferred methods. Some students expressed a desire for a diverse array of assignments to be valued equally, while others had no specific preference. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating a variety of assessment methods to cater to the diverse preferences and strengths of the students. Based on the findings from the focus group study, interactive presentations, online quizzes, practical exercises, and peer evaluations were incorporated into the course. These strategies aimed to enhance student engagement, motivation, and collaborative learning. The findings from the student co-design process provided valuable insights into the students’ preferences, needs, and motivations, which were incorporated into the course structure. The incorporation of interactive and innovative teaching methods, diverse assessment methods, and opportunities for peer interaction aimed to enhance overall student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. Those preferences of the students including emphasis on interactive and innovative teaching methods, as well as opportunities for peer interaction and feedback, not only enhance student engagement and motivation but also reflect the changing educational environment in IA/IAED. By focusing on collaborative learning, student-centered methods, and incorporating real-world experiences into the curriculum by embracing the student co-design process, educators can create more dynamic and responsive learning environments that prepare students for the complexities and challenges of contemporary design practice.

Findings from student evaluations

Overall student satisfaction and engagement.

The findings from this study highlight the importance of incorporating diverse pedagogical strategies and technology tools to create engaging and inclusive learning environments for Gen Z learners. The recommendations provided for the course implementation, such as redesigning physical and non-classroom spaces, integrating active learning methodologies, fostering collaborative environments, and leveraging technology as mindtools, align with the preferences and motivations expressed by the students in this study. One of the key findings is the positive impact of interactive presentations prepared using Genially and Gamma. These tools facilitated engagement and were particularly appealing to the 5 of the students who identified the fluidity of course delivery as a significant motivator for participation. This suggests that incorporating interactive elements in presentations can enhance student engagement and motivation. To maintain interactivity and motivation throughout the course, quizzes were conducted using Quizizz. The inclusion of a 10-point bonus for the student with the highest quiz average throughout the semester further incentivized participation. The positive response from students indicates that gamification elements can enhance motivation and make the learning experience more enjoyable. Practical exercises conducted using Miro incorporated active learning strategies and fostered collaborative learning settings. This aligns with the recommendations for fostering collaborative environments, as students expressed a preference for group discussions and activities. The use of Miro allowed students to actively participate and contribute to each other’s ideas, further enhancing the collaborative learning experience. The findings also highlight the importance of considering potential issues when implementing certain assignment types. While the majority of students expressed a preference for being able to choose assignment types, concerns were raised about providing enough sources for each type of assignment and potential issues related to grades and comparisons among students. To address these concerns, the assignment types were determined by the course instructor, with student consultation for midterm and final assessments. This approach allowed for a balance between student preferences and practical considerations. The inclusion of peer evaluations in one of the assignments and the midterm presentation was well-received by students. Peer evaluations were identified as a utility by 8 of the students and were seen as a way to enhance motivation and interest in the course. The assignment incorporating peer assessment encouraged students to share their findings and contribute to each other’s ideas, fostering a collaborative learning environment. The positive response from students suggests that peer evaluations can be an effective tool for enhancing motivation and engagement. In the final assessment, students were given the opportunity to choose an area from project courses and develop their designs based on the principles of biophilic design. This aligns with the preferences expressed by 2 of the students for project submissions and integration with project or studio courses. By allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world design project, the final assessment provided a meaningful and relevant learning experience. Although field trips were identified as a factor that could enhance student motivation and contribute to achieving the learning outcomes of the course, financial constraints prevented their inclusion in the course content. However, an exploration of a diminutive village with biophilic attributes was undertaken in collaboration with two students from the course. These research findings were disseminated and made publicly accessible, providing an alternative way for students to engage with real-world examples of biophilic design.

The survey results regarding students’ understanding of biophilic design concepts indicate a high level of familiarity and comprehension. The respondents consistently exhibited a significant degree of knowledge improvement, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of biophilic design. This suggests that the course content and interactive learning methods were effective in enhancing students’ knowledge and awareness of biophilic design. The evaluation of learning outcomes and the instructor’s performance received a notable consensus among respondents. Students strongly agreed that the learning outcomes were intricately linked to the course content and that the course provided pertinent resources aligning with the subject matter. The high positivity towards the course instructor indicates satisfaction and understanding in various aspects, including the clarity of assessment methods and the instructor’s approach to the course. Overall, the findings from this study support the recommendations for a multifaceted approach that integrates technology, personalized coaching, gamification, and varied pedagogical strategies to create engaging, transformative, and inclusive learning environments for Gen Z learners. The incorporation of interactive presentations, quizzes, practical exercises, peer evaluations, and real-world design projects was well-received by students and contributed to their engagement, motivation, and knowledge improvement.

Impact of the course on biophilic design knowledge and skills

The analysis of students’ familiarity with the terms “biophilia” and “biophilic design” at the beginning and end of the term indicates a notable shift in their comprehension. At the start of the term, a majority of respondents were not acquainted with these terms, with a significant number either undecided or expressing disagreement with their familiarity. However, by the term’s conclusion, there was a remarkable increase in familiarity with both concepts. For “biophilia,” the number of respondents familiar with the term rose considerably, from 9 at the beginning to 23 by the term’s end, with no disagreement or uncertainty recorded at the conclusion. Similarly, for “biophilic design,” familiarity surged notably, with 22 respondents indicating acquaintance at the term’s end, compared to 10 at the outset. These shifts underscore a significant improvement in students’ understanding and awareness of these fundamental concepts related to biophilic design throughout the course duration. This finding is supported by the strong consensus among the respondents, with 21 students strongly agreeing and 2 agreeing that they feel confident in their understanding of biophilic design. This indicates that the course has effectively imparted the necessary information and concepts related to biophilic design, enabling students to engage in discussions about it with others. This is an important outcome, as it demonstrates that the students have not only acquired knowledge but also the ability to communicate and share their understanding of biophilic design with their peers and beyond. Furthermore, the majority of respondents also expressed confidence in their ability to assess the built environment using the principles of biophilic design. This finding is significant as it suggests that the course has not only provided theoretical knowledge but has also equipped students with practical skills to apply these principles in real-world scenarios. The high number of students who feel confident in their ability to evaluate environments based on biophilic principles indicates that they have developed a strong understanding of how to analyze and assess the built environment through the lens of biophilic design.

Implications for IA and IAED education

The insights derived from the student co-design process within the interior architecture course present a rich tapestry of students’ perspectives, expectations, and preferences, offering profound implications for the realm of interior design education. Student’s alignment of assessment method preferences with specific assignment types, notably favoring project-based tasks, presentations, and written assignments, underscores the need for a diverse array of evaluation techniques catering to varying student preferences and strengths. These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating multifaceted assessment approaches to accommodate diverse student needs effectively. Leveraging the insights gleaned from focus group studies, the course structure was revamped to integrate interactive presentations, online quizzes, practical exercises, and peer evaluations, aiming to augment student engagement, motivation, and collaborative learning experiences. These adjustments reflect an alignment with students’ identified preferences and requirements, enhancing the overall pedagogical environment. In the realm of interior design education, these findings bear pivotal implications. The involvement of students in shaping course elements not only empowered their engagement but also streamlined the course content to meet their needs and motivations. The integration of interactive teaching methodologies, diverse assessment strategies, and avenues for peer interaction aimed to foster heightened student engagement, motivation, and ultimately, enriched learning outcomes within the IA and IAED curriculum. Moreover, the study’s broader implications resonate beyond the educational sphere. The students’ strong confidence in discussing biophilic design and applying it to varied contexts underscores the significance of interdisciplinary approaches in design education. Equipping students with transferable skills cultivates a comprehensive understanding of design principles, essential in the multifaceted domain of IA and IAED, where considerations encompass human well-being, spatial functionality, and environmental sustainability. The findings also suggest a potential cadre of competent professionals poised to advocate for and implement biophilic design principles within the industry. In conclusion, this study delineates the success of the course in imparting knowledge, nurturing critical thinking abilities, and enabling practical application of learning. Moving forward, it underscores the importance of continuous exploration and development of innovative teaching methodologies, advocating for immersive and experiential learning activities to enhance students’ grasp and application of biophilic design principles within the sphere of IA and education.

The purpose of this research was to investigate the impact of an elective course, designed collaboratively with student contributions and integrated with innovative learning methodologies, focused on biophilic design for interior spaces. Addressing specific research questions, this study examined the preparation process of the course, the influence of innovative learning methods on student participation, and the enduring impact of the course.

First, the study assessed the curricula of IA/IAED programs in Turkey and TRNC and found a significant educational gap, which was also supported by literature (Doğan, 2021 ). Only one university offered a dedicated course (Galata University, starting from 2023 to 2024 Fall Semester) and a few as part of sustainability-related courses. Therefore, to improve the improved student awareness and confidence in understanding biophilic design, indicating effective education advancement and real-world application readiness a newly introduced elective course was offered.

Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate how effective a course structure designed by students was in enhancing the long-term retention of biophilic design knowledge in interior spaces. It drew from research advocating for student-driven content to increase engagement and commitment, focusing on creating a more interactive learning environment. The study emphasized collaborative learning methods, group work, presentations, project-based assignments, and peer interactions by involving students in designing the course syllabus and analyzing their expectations through group sessions. The student-influenced course structure received positive feedback from end-of-term surveys, with students expressing satisfaction and active engagement, particularly appreciating group activities, peer assessments, and interactive formats such as quizzes.

Lastly, the research investigated the specific hurdles encountered by instructors teaching elective courses primarily attended by students from Gen Z enrolled in IA or IAED programs. These challenges encompassed addressing short attention spans, tendencies towards multitasking, and the need for technical proficiency. To mitigate these challenges, the study proposed potential solutions, including incorporating frequent breaks, employing interactive teaching methodologies, and providing targeted, concise assignments tailored to accommodate the unique traits of Gen Z learners. The study underscores the importance of utilizing an interactive course format, highlighting the significance of diverse teaching methods and technology in effectively engaging Gen Z students. The recommendations put forward, such as promoting active learning, creating collaborative spaces, and integrating technological tools like Genially and Gamma, are aligned with the preferences of these students. The integration of interactive presentations and quizzes on platforms like Quizizz served to motivate active participation, while the use of Miro for exercises fostered collaborative learning, resonating with students’ preference for group engagement and discussions. These strategic approaches significantly elevated student engagement and contributed to cultivating an inclusive and enriching learning environment.

Lastly and significantly, summarizing the instructor’s observations and dialogs with students during the pilot course, the use of interactive materials and methods significantly contributed to students’ engagement levels. Student feedback reflects a positive reception towards the interactive quiz format, contrary to their anticipation of traditional or system-based exams, finding the interactive format enjoyable and engaging. Personal observations indicate that students, being accustomed to short quizzes at the end of classes, consciously ensure their phones are charged before class and quickly review their notes or discuss potential questions during breaks. Furthermore, the activities conducted on Miro transformed into templates and content used by students in midterms and finals. Students have taken peer evaluations seriously, demonstrating fairness in the assessment process. Notably, there is alignment observed between the instructor’s grading and the grades derived from peer evaluations, even among students who have reported personal issues. Some students have gone above expectations, opening additional subsections for thorough grading in peer evaluations. However, despite these positive aspects, the success achieved in midterms was not replicated in finals due to scheduling conflicts during the final exam period and students’ prioritization of mandatory courses. Despite being informed that desk critics before the final submission influence their final grades, only a minimal group actively participated in all critiques.

Conclusively, this research underscores the vital role of student-inclusive and innovative courses in addressing educational gaps, emphasizing the need for dedicated biophilic design education in IA or IAED programs. By fostering interactive learning and addressing Generation Z’s learning needs, tailored courses can significantly enhance engagement and knowledge acquisition. This study encourages the integration of innovative teaching methods to create inclusive and engaging learning environments in design education.

Limitations of the pilot study

Since the course was offered as a faculty elective course in Near East University for the 2022–23 Spring Semester, only the proposed pilot elective course attracted a total of 26 students in the Turkish section and 11 students in the English section. Out of these, only 20 students attended the Turkish course for the entire semester, while 7 students attended the English course consistently. The relatively small sample size and the imbalance between the two language sections may affect the generalizability of the findings. However, while the numbers do highlight a relatively small sample size and an imbalance between the two language sections, these factors might not entirely undermine the validity of the findings. The consistent attendance of 20 students in the Turkish section and 7 students in the English section throughout the semester might actually provide a focused understanding of how interactive activities impact a committed subset of students. Furthermore, while the sample size could restrict the application of these findings to a wider population, it does not invalidate the insights gained from this specific group. Other research studies, as highlighted by Fernandez-Antolin et al. ( 2021 ), have also utilized similar approaches with smaller student cohorts. These attendance figures could still offer meaningful qualitative data regarding the effectiveness of hands-on activities in engaging students within the context of this pilot elective course. Also, the lack of technological infrastructure in the classrooms constrained the effortless delivery of innovative learning methods by requiring rapid solutions for those issues and another limitation despite high demand for a class trip, logistical constraints, including insufficient public transportation and a lack of support from the university, prevented the planning and execution of the trip. Last but not least, during the final exams, clashes with mandatory courses and students’ prioritization of these compulsory subjects resulted in a lack of success in finals. The limited time and attention dedicated to the elective course due to conflicting schedules may have impacted students’ performance and hindered a comprehensive assessment of their understanding and application of biophilic design concepts.

Recommendations for further course development and research

To pave the way for future course enhancements and comprehensive research there are several recommendations gathered from this study.

First of all, the inclination of 12 students towards selecting their own assignment types, while acknowledged during focus study and surveys, raises concerns about potential issues like sourcing adequacy for diverse assignment types or apprehensions regarding mutual grading accountability and perceived workload disparities among peers. Consequently, for the pilot course, assignment types were structured by the instructor. Moreover, for mid-term and final evaluations, student consultation at the course outset, leading to consensus-based decisions, was adopted. However, a future course iteration might permit students to choose their assignment types, necessitating the formulation of an assessment methodology. Additionally, as a recommendation for future terms, setting clearer final expectations earlier in the semester might allow students more time to prepare for finals. However, integration issues with other courses could arise, and students, due to their workload, might still defer final preparations until the last weeks or, as an alternative solution, reduce the percentage weight of finals and emphasize greater participation and completion of assignments throughout the term is believed to elevate the overall success level of the course.

Secondly, ensuring the successful integration of student-contributed syllabi and innovative pedagogical methods warrants a focused inquiry into teacher training and support mechanisms. Investigating the efficacy of teacher training initiatives and devising strategies to augment educators’ proficiency in fostering student engagement and learning within these frameworks would be pivotal. Moreover, the incorporation of more qualitative research tools such as interviews or focus groups for post-course reflections and feedback might diversify the nuanced perspectives, experiences, and hurdles encountered by students regarding student-contributed syllabi and innovative learning methods and those pedagogical methodologies implemented in this course, could potentially find applicability in other elective courses across the academic spectrum.

Last but not least, based on the instructor’s observation, it is advisable specifically for the biophilic design course to customize this course for upper-year students majoring in Architecture, IA/IAED. This is because students in their 1st and 2nd years may have limited technical knowledge and project development skills. Also, over time, students can cultivate their interest in elective courses with specific content such as this one, thereby the application of the course material in their project courses or their professional lives easier. In addition, if this course is offered during the Semester when the weather conditions are more favorable, it could facilitate more interaction by conducting classes outdoors and organizing field trips more easily.

Data availability

The data is accessible through Dataverse https://doi.org/10.7910/DVN/SFEGA5 .

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Özbey, F., Bardak Denerel, S. Student involvement and innovative teaching methods in a biophilic design education pilot elective course in interior architecture. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 11 , 1155 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03559-4

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• Published: 12 September 2024

Vaccination governance in protracted conflict settings: the case of northwest Syria

• Ronja Kitlope Baatz 1   na1 ,
• Abdulkarim Ekzayez 2 , 3   na1 ,
• Yasser Najib 4 ,
• Munzer Alkhalil 5 , 6 ,
• Mohammad Salem 4 ,
• Mohammed Ayman Alshiekh 7 &
• Preeti Patel 2  

BMC Health Services Research volume  24 , Article number:  1056 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

Effective vaccination governance in conflict-affected regions poses unique challenges. This study evaluates the governance of vaccination programs in northwest Syria, focusing on effectiveness, efficiency, inclusiveness, data availability, vision, transparency, accountability, and sustainability.

Using a mixed-methods approach, and adapting Siddiqi’s framework for health governance, data were collected through 14 key informant interviews (KIIs), a validating workshop, and ethnographic observations. Findings were triangulated to provide a comprehensive understanding of vaccination governance.

The study highlights innovative approaches used to navigate the complex health governance landscape to deliver vaccination interventions, which strengthened sub-national vaccination structures such as The Syria Immunisation Group (SIG). The analysis revealed several key themes. Effectiveness and efficiency were demonstrated through cold-chain reliability and extensive outreach activities, though formal reports lacked detailed analysis of vaccine losses and linkage between disease outbreak data and coverage statistics. Key informants and workshop participants rated the vaccination strategy positively but identified inefficiencies due to irregular funding and bureaucracy. Inclusiveness and data availability were prioritised, with outreach activities targeting vulnerable groups. However, significant gaps in demographic data and reliance on paper-based systems hindered comprehensive coverage analysis. Digitalisation efforts were noted but require further support. The SIG demonstrated a clear strategic vision supported by international organizations such as the World Health Organization, yet limited partner participation in strategic planning raised concerns about broader ownership and engagement. While the SIG was perceived as approachable, the lack of public documentation and financial disclosure limited transparency. Internal information sharing was prevalent, but public communication strategies were insufficient. Accountability and sustainability faced challenges due to a decentralized structure and reliance on diverse donors. Despite stabilizing factors such as decentralization and financial continuity, fragmented oversight and reliance on donor funding remained significant concerns.

The study highlights the complexities of vaccination governance in conflict-affected areas. Comparisons with other conflict zones underscore the importance of local organisations and international support. The SIG’s role is pivotal, but its legitimacy, transparency, and inclusivity require improvement. The potential transition to early recovery in Syria poses additional challenges to SIG’s sustainability and integration into national programs.

The governance of vaccination in northwest Syria is multifaceted, involving multiple stakeholders and lacking a legitimate government. Enhancing transparency, local ownership, and participatory decision-making are crucial for improving governance. The role of international bodies is essential, emphasising the need for structured feedback mechanisms and transparent monitoring processes to ensure the program’s success and sustainability.

Key message

• A hybrid governance model that combines top-down and bottom-up approaches effectively improves immunisation programs in conflict settings and promotes local ownership.

• In conflict settings, immunisation programmes require strong and direct intervention from the WHO with central management and coordination of the vaccine activities.

• In conflict areas, when the government is a party to the conflict or has limited access to some areas, United Nations institutions must intervene to manage or support vaccine activities in partnership with local entities, regardless of notions of national sovereignty.

• In Syria, the reluctance of United Nations institutions to fill the void left by the state in areas outside its control and provide vaccines led to the emergence of many diseases, including polio in 2013 and measles in 2017.

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Introduction

Immunisation services are essential for any health system to ensure protection against major transmissible diseases. Armed conflicts often influence the availability, quality, accessibility, and uptake of vaccination services, which can lead to the emergence of outbreaks and epidemics [ 1 , 2 ]. The restoration of regular immunisation services in emergency contexts has not been extensively studied, and protracted crises “underscore the need to consider matters beyond the emergency mindset” [ 3 ]. Furthermore, health partnerships remain largely centred on national governments [ 4 ], raising the question of how areas beyond state control can best organise routine vaccination services.

The Syrian conflict, which started in March 2011, has had a devastating impact on the health system of the country; with vaccination coverage dropping from more than 90% for the Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (DTP) vaccine pre-conflict, to less than 10% in some areas [ 5 , 6 ]. With the fall of some areas under opposition control, the Syrian government began to withhold vaccinations from these areas, while simultaneously attacking healthcare facilities and infrastructure [ 7 ]. The decline in vaccine coverage resulted in outbreaks of Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs), including polio (2013, 2017) and measles (2017, 2018) [ 8 , 9 ]. This led to vaccination becoming a priority for the humanitarian sector following the outbreak of wild poliovirus in October 2013.

Syria is now roughly divided into three main areas of control: the self-administration region of northeast Syria controlled by Kurdish majority forces, the governmental areas in the central, coastal and southern regions, and various opposition forces in the northwest. These delineations are visually depicted in Fig.  1 , where the regions are represented by the colours yellow, red, and green, respectively [ 10 ]. Opposition controlled areas in northwest Syria has a population of about 4.5 million people, of whom over a third, 1.8 million, live in camps, which is the area of focus in this study [ 11 ]. According to The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), about 90% of the population is dependent on donor aid for their subsistence, including for health care [ 12 ]. Northwest Syria is governed by two main forces, the opposition forces with Turkish support in northern Aleppo, and Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) in Idlib Governorate [ 13 ]. HTS is listed as a terrorist organisation by the US, UN, EU and Turkey, preventing aid organisations from working with them [ 14 ]. As there is no recognised government in northwest Syria and no clear end in sight to the conflict, international aid organisations are facing a long-term problem of coordination, particularly in programmes which require stability and effective governance, such as routine immunisation. Humanitarian access to northwest Syria has been using border crossing points from Turkey under annually renewed Resolutions by the UN Security Council since July 2014 [ 15 ]. However, this crossing became limited to only one crossing point, the Bab el Hawa border in 2019, and later this crossing has expired with the failure to renew this UN Resolution after being vetoed by Russia and China. The Security Council’s failure to reauthorise the long-standing cross border humanitarian aid mechanism in July 2023, has laid bare the implications for the humanitarian situation in Syria coupled with a deepening divide on the Security Council’s engagement on the issue. There is now uncertainty about the future of the aid mechanism and other UN operations in the region [ 16 ].

Areas of control in Syria as of April 2023. Source: Liveuamap, 2023

Prior to the conflict, Syria had advanced vaccination governance and high immunization coverage, with World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) estimating DTP vaccine coverage at over 89% [ 17 ]. During the conflict, vaccination activities faced significant challenges following the withdrawal of the Syrian Government from opposition-controlled territories in 2012. This led to disruptions in the supply chain, human resource shortages, and governance collapse, resulting in reduced vaccination coverage and outbreaks of diseases such as Polio and Measles [ 18 ]. Emergency vaccination campaigns were initiated by local and international actors to address these outbreaks, with the establishment of entities such as the Polio Task Force and Measles Task Force. Since 2016, vaccination efforts have been led by the Syria Immunisation Group (SIG), formed by local humanitarian actors and co-chaired by WHO and UNICEF. Please see Table  1 for the vaccination schedule in Syria before and after the conflict.

Despite Syria’s eligibility for Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) support in 2019, actual funding received remains lower than pledged, making it challenging to assess the total cost of vaccine activities [ 19 , 20 ]. The literature on vaccination governance in northwest Syria is scant, with limited distinction between northwest Syria and government-controlled areas. Comprehensive accounts of SIG’s work are rare, with the WHO 2020 report on Syria providing one notable exception [ 21 ]. This lack of literature may reflect the complex political economy context, as government withholding of vaccinations prompted alternative actors to facilitate vaccination and governance [ 22 ].

This study aims to explore the effectiveness and efficiency of vaccination governance in northwest Syria (NWS), its responsiveness, inclusivity, and informed decision-making processes, as well as its vision, strategy, transparency, and accountability. By examining these aspects, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how vaccination programs operate in conflict-affected areas and the unique challenges they face.

Methodology

This study employed a mixed-methods approach consisting of semi-structured qualitative interviews, a validation workshop, and ethnographic observations to comprehensively investigate vaccination governance in northwest Syria.

Firstly, we adapted the Siddiqi framework for health governance [ 23 ] with modifications to accommodate the unique challenges and dynamics present in northwest Syria. Its six key principles offer a structured approach to assess governance effectiveness, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability, which were central to the study’s objectives. This adapted framework guided the data collection, analysis, and interpretation processes, providing a structured approach to examining vaccination governance from a health system perspective.

Secondly, we conducted 14 semi-structured qualitative Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with key informants involved in vaccination governance in northwest Syria. Purposive sampling was used to select participants representing various stakeholders, including representatives from local health directorates, international organizations, and community leaders - please see Table  2 . Participants were identified based on their expertise and roles in vaccination delivery. We approached potential participants through email and phone calls, explaining the purpose of the study and inviting them to participate. Those who agreed to participate were scheduled for interviews at their convenience. The semi-structured interview guide (see Supplementary Material) aimed to explore participants’ experiences, perspectives, and challenges related to vaccination governance. The interviews were audio-recorded with participants’ consent and transcribed verbatim for analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted using both deductive and inductive approaches, with the Siddiqi framework guiding the thematic grouping and coding process. Notably, only two of the interviewees identified as female. This gender disparity reflects broader gender imbalances in leadership positions within the context of conflict-affected areas and may influence the perspectives and priorities discussed during the workshop.

Thirdly, a validation workshop was conducted in Gaziantep in November 2023 to validate the findings from the interviews and gather additional insights from stakeholders. The 15 participants in the workshop included key informants who had been interviewed, as well as other relevant stakeholders – please see Table  2 . An overview of the key findings per theme identified in the interviews was presented, followed by a discussion to validate and elaborate on these findings. The workshop facilitated a collaborative process to prioritize the main achievements and challenges identified in the interviews.

In addition, ethnographic observations were conducted alongside the field data collection to provide contextual insights into vaccination delivery and governance practices in northwest Syria. These observations involved daily immersion in the field, engaging in informal conversations with stakeholders, and documenting observations through field notes. This approach was used to build trust with key stakeholders, helping them understand the importance of our research and encouraging them to openly share their views and participate in research activities. The informal conversations and daily immersion provided rich qualitative data on the local context, practices, and challenges, which were crucial for interpreting the collected data. Additionally, relevant documents, such as reports and policy documents, were collected and analysed to complement the ethnographic data.

The three sets of data—interviews, workshop discussions, and ethnographic observations—were triangulated to enhance the validity and reliability of the findings. Triangulation was conducted through comparing and cross-referencing information from each data source. Initially, key themes and findings from the interviews were identified and categorised. These themes were then cross-checked against insights gathered from workshop discussions and ethnographic observations to identify common patterns, discrepancies, and unique contributions. Any discrepancies were further investigated through follow-up discussions or additional document analysis to resolve inconsistencies and confirm findings.

Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of King’s College London (MRA-22/23-34048) and, due to the sensitive nature of the subject, anonymity of participants was deemed critical. Informed consent was signed by all interviewees and interview records were deleted within two days after the interview, with notes being de-identified. All records and code-keys were stored on a password-protected secure drive.

This section presents five key themes that emerged from the data: effectiveness and efficiency, inclusiveness and data availability, clear vision with limited participatory strategy development, limited transparency, and accountability and sustainability. For each theme, findings are triangulated from interviews, workshop discussions, and ethnographic observations to provide a comprehensive understanding of vaccination governance in northwest Syria.

Effectiveness and efficiency

Field observations highlighted the operational success of the vaccination strategy, particularly in maintaining cold-chain reliability and conducting extensive outreach activities. Researchers noted that cold-chain facilities appeared well-maintained and outreach teams were active in various communities.

Document analysis corroborated these observations, although it revealed a lack of detailed analysis in formal reports regarding vaccine losses and linkage between disease outbreak data and coverage statistics. The annual report for 2021 noted the distribution of over 1.5 million routine vaccines and approximately 350,000 COVID-19 vaccines (SIG, 2021).

KIIs provided subjective assessments of effectiveness, with most participants rating the vaccination strategy very positively. For example, one key informant stated, “Cold-chain is very complicated, and (…) we have never faced gaps in the cold-chain. The outreach activities too, they are amazing in screening the whole community” (K-07). Another participant commented, “I think there are three successful entities in Syria. White Helmets, Early Warning and Response Network (EWARN) and SIG. Basically, they are performing governmental performance, without being a government” (K-10).

The workshop echoed these sentiments, emphasising the reliability of cold-chain logistics and the effectiveness of outreach programs. Participants highlighted the comprehensive knowledge outreach teams had about the communities, such as culture and health seeking behaviour, which facilitated high vaccine coverage.

Analysis suggests that while the subjective assessments are positive, the lack of detailed data in formal documents indicates a need for more robust quantitative evaluation mechanisms to fully substantiate these claims.

Efficiency was qualitatively explored through factors such as human resources, bureaucracy, corruption, and the non-governmental nature of the program. Field observations noted strong capacity among staff and stable governance structures.

Documents reviewed pointed to significant bureaucracy but suggested it was a necessary component to prevent corruption. KIIs reinforced this, with one participant noting, “You can’t do any humanitarian process without this paperwork, to be honest. It is the right way, because otherwise you are corrupted” (K-01). Another added that corruption was low due to the nature of the resources involved, stating, “There are few reasons for people to steal from this programme. It isn’t food baskets or money, it’s vaccines” (K-01).

Workshops confirmed these findings but also highlighted inefficiencies due to the lack of government services and irregular funding, which led to service discontinuations. One workshop participant explained, “The Expanded Programme for Immunisation (EPI) is continuous, it should be a 2 or 3 year project. For example, the first project ends by the end of May and the next project starts mid-June. So, there is a gap for staff, so they don’t receive their salaries” (W-02).

In conclusion, while the vaccination governance seems to be efficient with limited observed effectiveness, challenges remain in documentation and the impacts of funding irregularities, short termism and uncertainty.

Inclusiveness, responsiveness, and data availability

Field observations indicated that accessibility and inclusiveness are prioritized in vaccination efforts, with outreach activities playing a crucial role in reaching vulnerable groups. Researchers observed that outreach sessions outnumbered fixed sessions, reflecting the emphasis on inclusivity.

Document analysis revealed systematic data collection efforts to identify reasons for missed vaccinations to target vulnerable groups, including zero-dose children, people with disabilities, female-headed households, and those living in remote areas. However, significant gaps in demographic data and reliance on paper-based systems were noted, hindering comprehensive coverage analysis.

KIIs highlighted the challenges in data availability. One participant mentioned, “The most reliable approximations of vaccine coverage come from last year’s vaccination data and the door-to-door polio campaign” (K-05). Another added, “Alternative population data is available from OCHA, but it is considered inferior to the more comprehensive and up-to-date polio data” (K-06). This reliance on figures from previous Polio vaccination campaigns is confirmed by our document analysis. In 2021 the SIG vaccinated 134,083 children with Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG). The Polio campaign in the previous year vaccinated a total of 155.378 children under 1. According to third party monitoring, the coverage rate of this polio campaign was 93%. Assuming that the age-distribution of the coverage is equal, this would make the total number of children under 1 in northwest Syria 167.073. Accordingly, the coverage rate for BCG would then be 80.3%. Similar statistics currently being used as coverage data, but these are suboptimal.

Workshop participants echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for digitalization of medical and vaccination records. A participant remarked, “Paper vaccination cards are often lost, and manual data collection is prone to error. Digital systems are urgently needed” (W-03).

Our analysis indicates that while inclusivity is a stated priority and efforts are made to collect relevant data, the effectiveness of these efforts is limited by significant data availability challenges. Digitalization initiatives are a positive step but require more support and implementation.

Clear vision with limited participatory strategy development

Field observations showed the SIG’s active involvement in strategic planning, supported by WHO and GAVI. Researchers noted clear mission statements and detailed strategies in the SIG’s multi-year plan, though awareness among partners was limited.

Document analysis confirmed the existence of structured strategic plans but indicated fragmented decision-making processes involving multiple stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the SIG. The SIG was observed to function as a central coordination and mediation platform.

KIIs provided insights into the strategic planning processes, with participants acknowledging sufficient opportunities for input but noting limited participation from partners. One participant stated, “I don’t think the NGOs are participating in finding solutions. Mainly the SIG is doing this. The SIG is doing a good job, so we feel relaxed somehow, so we don’t want to interfere in the system” (K-11). Another added, “It is positive that the implementing partners are only implementing the central plans” (K-06).

Workshop participants supported these findings, expressing trust in the SIG’s strategic planning but also highlighting the lack of engagement from partners in the decision-making process. One participant noted, “The SIG maintains the strategy and the quality of the strategy. In humanitarian crises and the Syrian context, we operate as organizations, but we established a central team” (W-04).

Our analysis suggests that while the SIG has a clear vision and structured strategic plans, the limited participatory strategy development may hinder broader ownership and engagement from all partners.

Limited transparency

Field observations noted a general perception of the SIG being approachable, but with limited transparency in documentation. Researchers observed that information sharing was mostly internal, with minimal public disclosure.

Document analysis highlighted the lack of an internet presence, financial disclosure, and public availability of strategic plans and annual reports. Information was primarily disseminated through internal reports and meetings, limiting access for external stakeholders.

KIIs revealed a discrepancy between perceived and actual transparency. One participant commented, “A normal Ministry of Health would not separately publish their vaccination results in so much detail” (K-03). Another stated, “Partners funded through the WHO share their financial data with the SIG, but privately funded partners do not” (K-02).

Workshop participants emphasized the need for greater transparency, particularly for stakeholders not directly involved in the SIG’s network. A participant remarked, “It is difficult to obtain information about the topic if one is not part of the network. Only the WHO and the Assistant Coordination Unit (ACU) additionally report on selected aspects of vaccination” (W-01).

Our analysis indicates that while the SIG is considered transparent by partners due to its approachability, the lack of public documentation and financial disclosure limits overall transparency. Enhanced public communication strategies could improve transparency and accountability.

Accountability and sustainability

Field observations underscored the complex collaboration of stakeholders underpinning vaccine provision, with no single body having legitimate oversight. Filed researchers noted the decentralised structure and reliance on various donors.

Document analysis highlighted the lack of enforcement mechanisms for medical guidelines and protocols. The SIG’s Statement of Principle lacked enforceable standards, leaving de facto power with diverse donors. This patchwork funding approach posed challenges to accountability and sustainability.

KIIs pointed to the absence of a central governance body, with one participant noting, “The donors know that the SIG is not officially on the papers, but they know there is a body called SIG responsible for reaching the target, achieving the indicators, and supervising technically” (K-07). Another participant identified potential risks, stating, “The cut of funds, war, and lack of stability of the security situation. We have the scenario, but we don’t know what will happen” (K-08).

Workshop participants discussed stabilising factors such as the system’s size, decentralized structure, and financial continuity. One participant remarked, “The system grows and becomes a stable system. Everyone is aware of how the system is growing, and this assists the continuity” (W-05).

Our analysis concludes that while there are significant challenges to accountability and sustainability, including fragmented oversight and reliance on diverse donors, stabilizing factors such as decentralization and financial continuity offer some resilience against potential disruptions. Capacity building at district and governorate levels is crucial for ensuring long-term stability and effectiveness.

The primary themes under investigation in this study encompassed the effectiveness and efficiency of the vaccination governance in northwest Syria; its responsiveness, inclusivity, and informed decision-making; its vision and strategy; transparency; and accountability and sustainability.

The management and coordination of vaccination in conflict-affected areas pose significant challenges to effectiveness and efficiency. In regions like northwest Syria, where government control is limited, the discontinuation of routine vaccination services exacerbates these challenges. Comparisons with other conflict-affected areas, such as Myanmar and Somalia, highlight the role of local organizations and international support in filling governance gaps [ 24 , 25 ]. However, research on vaccination coordination in northwest Syria remains sparse, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of local structures and operations.

Prior to 2016, the health governance model followed a bottom-up approach, with local entities playing significant roles in vaccination activities. With the establishment of SIG, a hybrid top-down and bottom-up model emerged, shifting the focus to international support and coordination while preserving field connection. This model change reflects the unique challenges of vaccination services in conflict-affected regions and underscores the need for a collaborative approach under the United Nations’ umbrella.

The Syria Immunisation Group (SIG) plays a pivotal role in vaccination governance in northwest Syria, aiming to address these challenges. While SIG has gained internal legitimacy through collaboration with health directorates (HDs) and external legitimacy through collaborating with WHO and UNICEF, concerns regarding accountability and inclusivity persist. The lack of transparency and involvement of partners in strategic planning processes hinder informed decision-making. These finding are in line with a study by Alaref et al. in 2023 which evaluated six governance principles for central quasi-governmental institutions in northwest Syria, including SIG, and found that its legitimacy is fair and requires improvement, scoring 41–60% on a health system governance scale adapted for this paper. Accountability, transparency, effectiveness and efficiency were poor and required significant improvement, scoring 21–40%, while strategic vision was very poor or inactive, scoring 0–20% [ 26 ].

Despite having a strategic plan and receiving support from international organisations like the WHO and GAVI, SIG faces contradictions in its effectiveness and efficiency. The transition from emergency task forces to SIG was marked by power dynamics and challenges to local ownership, raising questions about sustainability and integration into national vaccination programs [ 9 ]. The potential transition of WHO operations further complicates the future of SIG, posing a key challenge to early recovery in Syria.

These findings raise questions about the future of the SIG body in light of the political and military changes in the region and the constant threat associated with cross-border operations. What would happen if the WHO ceased operations in Gaziantep and moved to Damascus, where a national vaccine program has been in place for decades? In such a scenario, would the SIG continue to carry out its activities in northwest Syria, or would it become a part of the national vaccine program? This is a key challenge for the transition to early recovery in Syria.

In conclusion, the governance of vaccination in conflict-affected areas of northwest Syria is complex, with multiple stakeholders involved and a lack of a legitimate government to fulfil essential functions. The success of the vaccination program heavily relies on the efforts of the Syria Immunisation Group (SIG), which acts as a trusted mediator between various stakeholders. However, the lack of transparency and accountability hinders the ability to assess the program’s effectiveness and efficiency. This calls for a push towards more localised ownership and transparency, with a hybrid top-down and bottom-up approach that addresses the unique context of conflict settings. Engaging local partners in decision-making and capacity building can improve sustainability and address issues surrounding legitimacy. Moreover, the responsibility to protect public health goes beyond national sovereignty, and the role of international bodies like the WHO becomes crucial in conflict areas. Inaction or delayed action can have catastrophic consequences, as witnessed in Syria with the emergence of diseases like polio and measles. It is essential to implement a structured feedback mechanism and transparent monitoring and evaluation processes to address challenges and foster trust among stakeholders and the community. Ultimately, the findings of this study inform debates around health governance in conflict settings, highlighting the need for more inclusive, transparent, and context-sensitive approaches to ensure the success and sustainability of vaccination programs.

Data availability

The datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to the sensitive nature of the data, but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Abbreviations

Syria Immunisation Group

Early Warning and Response Network

Expanded Programme on Immunization

World Health Organization

Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization

United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Health Directorates

Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation

Key Informant Interviews

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund

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Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge invaluable contributions of several staff based in Turkey and Syria for their input, access and support. We also wish to acknowledge in particularly contribution from Dr. Mahmoud Daher, then Head of the Gaziantep (Turkey) Office. Furthermore, appreciation is expressed for the contributions of the Assistance Coordination Unit staff, for the documents they made available for this study and their input in the analysis.

This publication is funded through the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) 131207, Research for Health Systems Strengthening in northern Syria (R4HSSS), using UK aid from the UK Government to support global health research. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the NIHR or the UK government.

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Ronja Kitlope Baatz and Abdulkarim Ekzayez are equal contributors to this work and designated as co-first authors.

Authors and Affiliations

Deventer Hospital, Deventer, Netherlands

Ronja Kitlope Baatz

Research for Health System Strengthening in northern Syria (R4HSSS), The Centre for Conflict & Health Research (CCHR), King’s College London, Strand, WC2R 2LS, London, UK

Abdulkarim Ekzayez & Preeti Patel

Syria Development Centre (SyriaDev), London, UK

Abdulkarim Ekzayez

Syria Immunisation Group (SIG), Gaziantep, Turkey

Yasser Najib & Mohammad Salem

Syria Public Health Network, London, UK

Munzer Alkhalil

Research for Health System Strengthening in Northern Syria (R4HSSS), UOSSM, Gaziantep, Turkey

Vascular Senior Clinical Fellow, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK

Mohammed Ayman Alshiekh

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Contributions

The initial framing, literature review, data collection and drafting of the study were carried out by RB and AE. AE contributed to the design, supervision, data collection, data analysis, and multiple rounds of editing. YN contributed to access to data, data collection, and data analysis. MS contributed to access to data and data analysis. PP contributed to analysis and multiple rounds of editing. Mohammed Ayman Alshiekh (MA) contributed to analysis and multiple rounds of editing. Munzer Alkhalil contributed to analysis and multiple rounds of editing. All authors read and approved the final manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Ronja Kitlope Baatz or Abdulkarim Ekzayez .

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Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of King’s College London, under the approval number MRA-22/23-34048. Informed consent was obtained from all participants involved in the study. Participants were provided with detailed information regarding the study’s objectives, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. They were assured of their right to withdraw from the study at any time without any repercussions. All data collected were anonymised to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of the participants.

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Baatz, R.K., Ekzayez, A., Najib, Y. et al. Vaccination governance in protracted conflict settings: the case of northwest Syria. BMC Health Serv Res 24 , 1056 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-024-11413-1

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Microsoft: A Case Study in Strategy Transformation

If you’re leading your team through big changes, this episode is for you.

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In early 2015, Microsoft’s senior leaders were facing a set of difficult decisions. The firm had been struggling to innovate and grow as fast as its competitors. Now they were considering new opportunities that would yield higher growth but lower margins — like shifting away from perpetual licensing to focus on subscription sales.

Harvard Business School professor Fritz Foley studied this period of transformative change at Microsoft for a business case study he wrote. In this episode, he shares how Microsoft’s leaders analyzed different options and worked to get both investors and employees on board with new ideas about growth. He also explains how the company’s risk-averse culture evolved in order to execute such a huge transformation.

Key episode topics include: strategy, growth strategy, business models, corporate governance.  

HBR On Strategy curates the best case studies and conversations with the world’s top business and management experts, to help you unlock new ways of doing business. New episodes every week.

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HANNAH BATES: Welcome to HBR On Strategy , case studies and conversations with the world’s top business and management experts, hand selected to help you unlock new ways of doing business.

In early 2015, Microsoft’s senior leadership team was facing a set of difficult decisions. The firm had been struggling to innovate and grow as fast as its competitors. Now, they were considering new opportunities that would yield higher growth, but lower margins like shifting away from perpetual licensing to focus on subscription sales.

Today, we bring you a conversation with Harvard Business School professor Fritz Foley, who studied this period of transformative change at Microsoft for a business case study he wrote. In this episode, you’ll get a window into how Microsoft’s leaders analyzed different options and got both investors and employees on board with a different idea of growth. You’ll also learn how the company’s risk-averse culture had to evolve in order to execute such a huge transformation.

This episode originally aired on Cold Call in July 2018. Here it is.

BRIAN KENNY: Electronics enthusiasts in the 1970s looked forward to it every year: the January issue of Popular Electronics . That is because that issue was known for featuring the coolest up-and-coming products in the world of electronics. And when the January 1975 issue hit newsstands, it did not disappoint. The cover was adorned with the first available image of the Altair 8,800, the world’s first mini-computer kit. It may not have been the shot heard around the world, but many say that it was the spark that ignited the home computer revolution. That very magazine inspired a young Paul Allen and Bill Gates to turn their passion for computers into a business that subsequently became an empire.

Today, Microsoft Corporation is the third most valuable company in the world and the world’s largest software company. But after four decades of buffeting the headwinds of the very industry it helped to create, Microsoft is at a turning point and the way forward is not entirely clear. Today we’ll hear from Professor Fritz Foley about his case entitled “The Transformation of Microsoft.” I’m your host, Brian Kenny, and you’re listening to Cold Call .

SPEAKER 1: So, we’re all sitting there in the classroom.

SPEAKER 2: Professor walks in.

SPEAKER 3: And they look up and you know it’s coming. The dreaded cold call.

BRIAN KENNY: Professor Fritz Foley’s Research focuses on corporate finance. He’s an expert on investment capital structure, working capital management, and a range of related topics, all of which probably factor into the case today. Fritz, thanks for joining us.

FRITZ FOLEY: Thanks so much for having me.

BRIAN KENNY: So, everybody pretty much knows who Microsoft is, and I think people will be really interested in getting a glimpse into where they were at this turning point in the company’s history. Still a very, very important company in the landscape of the technology industry and beyond. So, I think people will relate right away to this, but let me ask you, if you could start just by setting the stage for us. How does the case begin? Who’s the protagonist and what’s on her mind?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah, so the protagonist is Amy Hood, who is Microsoft’s CFO. She also was a student here at HBS at the time that I was in the PhD program. So, I’ve known her for some time and she’s facing a set of choices that really revolve around whether or not Microsoft should try to pursue increased margin or increased growth.

BRIAN KENNY: Okay. What prompted you to write the case? Your connection with Amy obviously is part of that, but why Microsoft and why now?

FRITZ FOLEY: I think I have been struck by the transformation that they are in the midst of. This is a company that… I mean, it’s hard to remember this. In the early two thousands, the stock price was stuck in the 20 to $30 a share range. And there was a group of people who were calling for the firm to be managed essentially for cash distributions and for increased margins. And then there were some growth opportunities that the company faced simultaneously. So, there was a real choice as to what direction to head. And I think this is a compelling choice that many other companies face. So, it’s a powerful example for me to highlight in course I teach about chief financial officers.

BRIAN KENNY: Microsoft was the first player on this stage really, but then Apple came along and I think many people look at these two as fierce competitors. But can you just talk about the difference between these two companies in terms of how they manage their financial strategy?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah, I can say a bit about that. So, at one level, they certainly are similar. They’re in tech space and in fact, many things that Microsoft was attracted to phones in particular, is something that Apple has excelled at. And I think that at the time of the case, they were quite different in the eyes of investors, I would say. I would say that investors still viewed Apple as having a lot of a growth emphasis of a commitment to innovating new products and solving problems that people weren’t even sure they had. Whereas Microsoft was the older, more established tech firm that I think, in the eyes of some, had become not a relic of the past, but less relevant when thinking about future innovations. And in some sense, the cases about how Microsoft tried to shed that view and become a relevant growth-oriented entity again.

BRIAN KENNY: And they’d certainly been criticized over the decades for not moving quickly enough to innovate and getting caught up in their own. And you think about IBM maybe as a company that faced similar criticisms getting caught up in just their size and the bureaucracy of the place. What did Microsoft’s business look like in 2012? Because that seemed to be the beginning of the turning point?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. I mean, it was one where there was varying performance across divisions. There was interest by value activist investors given the large cash holdings that the firm had. Obviously, their market share when it came to the office suite of products and windows, those were quite high. And they were obviously very successful in continuing to provide versions of that to a whole variety of users. They had emerging cloud business, but it wasn’t clear that they would win in that space and had really struggled in other spaces.

In search, Bing never got traction relative to Google. In phones, they were really struggling in 2012 right before they tried to make more headway in phones by buying Nokia, which also subsequently didn’t work out as well as they had hoped. So, I think along a series of dimensions, they were really trying to get some traction, trying to get footing in new spaces. And there were a group of investors that actually felt like that wasn’t what they should do. That they should just focus on Office, focus on Windows, enjoy the high margins that came with their on-premises server and tool business offerings. So, they faced some really hard choices.

BRIAN KENNY: And they were also, in terms of just the organization itself up against some issues, what were some of the things they were encountering culturally at the time?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. I mean, it’s a fascinating story from a cultural standpoint. It was an environment where there were high returns to showing that you were the smartest person in the room. Some of the stories that I have heard are a little jarring. I am not sure I would’ve survived in this environment. There were these very long mid-year reviews that took place and were incredibly demanding. It was an environment that was beginning to really emphasize the desire to be efficient, to be right, and in fairness to them, and Microsoft was coming from a culture or their culture came from a place where they were selling a product that couldn’t really fail. People had very high expectations for the performance of everything Microsoft provided them. And unlike today where there’s more room to update things through online updates, a lot of the software, it shipped and it had to be close to perfect when it shipped.

BRIAN KENNY: Actually, I can remember a time when the launch of a new Windows system was similar to the launch of a new iPhone. People were really excited to get the new system, but inevitably there were bugs and those were highly publicized, and so they fell under a lot of criticism. They were really operating under a microscope for a long time.

FRITZ FOLEY: For sure. And we’re keenly aware that time to fail in their products, which is a measure of how long it took for some product or process to break down, had to be very long. Otherwise, they would meet with a lot of customer dissatisfaction.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah. Okay. So, let’s move into the transformation phase for them. What was the fundamental shift they made in terms of changing or restructuring the organization?

FRITZ FOLEY: In my view, I think that they did a variety of things to adopt more of a growth orientation. And some of this dealt with their metrics. Some of it dealt with very explicit changes to the culture, and I think some of it also dealt with a realization that pursuing growth would enhance value much more than trying to increase margins and have large dividend payouts or larger dividend payouts to shareholders. So this was, I would say in the 2012, 2013 timeframe, we began to see pieces of this. And they also faced significant managerial changes at that time. That’s when Steve Ballmer retired and they needed to pick a new CEO and could have gone a variety of directions there. And by picking Satya Nadella, effectively we’re committing to more of a growth path.

BRIAN KENNY: Can you think of an example of a company that chose the margins path? And I mean, these are both potentially successful choices, but I would guess.

FRITZ FOLEY: For sure. And it’s a very hard trade-off to make. In teaching my MBA students and executive education students I’m always struck, when I ask them, “Would you sacrifice some margin for growth,” how hard that question can be and how many people don’t have much intuition for it. So, other companies did go the margin route.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah. Is it a situation where the margin choice is one that’s probably more comfortable and the returns are going to come sooner and the growth choice is a little riskier, and for a risk-averse culture probably harder to implement and you’re betting on the future? Is that fundamentally what the choice is?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. I think that’s a really good way of putting it. Many people find it easier to see the benefits that come with cutting costs and looking for efficiencies and worry that what may come with growth could be elusive. And in some regards, I have heard senior finance managers say that they had to earn the permission to go after growth. They have to get the buy-in from a group of investors who feel as if the senior leadership team has credibility in pursuing growth.

BRIAN KENNY: So, here we have Microsoft, an enormous company, 130,000 or so employees, something like that, large by any measure about to pursue an option that is in many ways counter to the culture of the organization. How do you do that? How do you cascade this kind of a change through an organization of that size?

FRITZ FOLEY: On the cultural side, one thing that they did was very explicitly dropped a growth mindset culture. And Satya Nadella writes about this in his recent book, Refresh. The story is, for me, very compelling. It’s incredibly hard to get any organization to change its culture. Whenever I’ve been a part of an organization that tried to engage in a cultural shift, whatever the tagline was, quickly became the punchline for a set of office jokes.

BRIAN KENNY: I’ve been on the other side of that. I’m the guy who writes the punchlines most often.

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. So, you know how hard this is. And I think that they were very wise in picking Kathleen Hogan who had led one of the divisions of Microsoft to head up the charge to describe and roll out this cultural change. They brought senior leaders on board, and ultimately, I think there was a lot of demand for it that many people who were working at Microsoft were innovative engineers and a very creative set of employees who wanted to pursue growth. And when given the choice to move away from review processes and given the opportunity to go to meetings where they didn’t feel like they had to be exactly right in making a point, but could stimulate the beginning of a discussion set of ideas that could lead to something that was new, people embraced that.

BRIAN KENNY: And here we are in the age of the millennial worker. Millennials don’t want to work for the old Microsoft for sure. And Microsoft is competing with the likes of Google and Apple and other firms that are definitely perceived as open and innovative, and they want people with energy and ideas. So, they have to adopt that same personality, I guess.

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah, I agree with that. I think there’s a new buzz about Microsoft, at least among my students, they’re much more intrigued by what it would mean to work there and what opportunities exist to do some things that would be truly novel and have a big impact on how people get work done.

BRIAN KENNY: So, let’s go back to our protagonists. Amy Hood in the case actually delves into her mindset a little bit. She’s getting ready to communicate these changes to the financial community. What are the kinds of things a CFO would have to think about? Because I can imagine the financial probably is more comfortable with the margin choice than the growth choice

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah, for sure. It’s fun for me to imagine her faced with this choice really of, okay, I can go this path of growth, but if I do this, I am going to have to go to my investors and say, our margins are going to go down for some period of time, and you’re not going to like that. But there’s going to be some upside and it will take some time for that upside to show up. So, I think she needed to find ways to communicate or signal what that upside would be and how big it might be to the investors so that she wouldn’t lose credibility with them and would have the permission essentially to pursue growth.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah. Now we hear it all the time about the emphasis on the short-term, short-termism in the financial community, and people want returns and they want them right away. In your experience, are you seeing a shift in the financial community, or are the analysts getting a little more comfortable with this notion of you can’t always go for the margins, you’ve got to find some sustainable growth in the long term?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. It’s a great question. It’s one that troubles me or is something I think about our financial system generally. I happen to be probably more optimistic relative to many when it comes to how short-term-oriented, or really how financial markets aren’t as, as some might worry, or that concern about short-termism doesn’t resonate as much with me. I do think there is a big burden on senior finance teams to explain how value is created by thinking long-term and embracing growth opportunities. And in some sense, when I look at what Amy has been doing at Microsoft, I applaud her and her team for taking on that challenge. They quite explicitly set a target of a $20 billion run rate for their commercial cloud business, and once analysts had that number, they could begin to build off of it and get a feel for how much value could be created if Microsoft succeeded at pulling this off.

So, by having the courage to commit to that path and help analysts understand what the path meant, I think that they have been effective in pursuing it. More generally, I do worry that there are some analysts that simply take an earnings-per-share number and apply some current multiple and don’t think much about what the future will look like. I am hopeful that finance teams and organizations will play a role in educating analysts as to how they should think about the future, when growth opportunities do exist and are attractive.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah. You mentioned earlier that you’ve talked about this in class, and I’m just curious, do the MBA students come at this differently than the executive education students who have been in fiduciary roles and organizations already?

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah. That’s an interesting question. Let me reflect on that for a moment. I think the approach is fairly similar. I would say that some MBA students are probably less aware of the constraints that capital markets may put on senior management teams to pursue growth. They’re less aware of what an activist who wants cash now might push management to do, whereas executive education students tend to be keenly aware of those pressures. If anything, I find that MBA students, it’s a little bit harder for them to articulate what is the case for pursuing margin for Microsoft in 2012, 2013. Many executive education students are quick to come up with lists of things that could be done strategically financially in picking leadership.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah, it’s interesting. And anybody who’s worked in an organization for any period of time, going back to that whole notion of how hard it is to change a culture, it’s pretty easy to think of reasons why not to pursue that path. So, I thought maybe some of the exec ed students might come at with those constraints already wrapped around themselves.

FRITZ FOLEY: Yeah, I agree.

BRIAN KENNY: Yeah. Fritz, thanks for joining us today.

FRITZ FOLEY: Thanks very much for having me.

HANNAH BATES: That was Harvard Business School Professor Fritz Foley in conversation with Brian Kenny on Cold Call . We’ll be back next Wednesday with another handpicked conversation about business strategy from Harvard Business Review.

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This episode was produced by Ann Saini and me, Hannah Bates. Ian Fox is our editor. Special thanks to Maureen Hoch, Adi Ignatius, Erica Truxler, Ramsey Khabbaz, Nicole Smith, Anne Bartholomew, and you, our listener. See you next week.

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