Case Assignment Instructions

Case Analysis (10%):

A case study analysis requires you to investigate a business problem, examine the alternative solutions, and propose the most effective solution using supporting evidence.

Case 1: This case illustrates the development of a new business model in a relatively mature industry-the fitness center business- and the challenges and payoffs associated with it. The case explores the challenges of the SMARTFIT expansion in Brazil and Latin America.

Students need to buy the case from Harvard Business Publishing through following link: https://hbsp.harvard.edu/product/BL0007-PDF-ENG?Ntt=SMARTFIT&itemFindingMethod=Search

Each student will submit a written case analysis (The Domestic and Foreign Expansion of SMARTFIT), which will constitute 10% of your final grade. You need to submit a five-pages essay (maximum 1500 words body) answering assigned questions, which offers a thorough rationale of your recommended approach to addressing the case issue(s).

How to analyze a case:

Before you begin writing, follow these guidelines to help you prepare and understand the case study:

ú Read and Examine the Case Thoroughly

ú Take notes, highlight relevant facts, underline key problems.

ú Consider the question(s) at the end of the case. Record all information pertinent to these in the form of case notes.

ú Decide which principles, theories, or models (usually part of the assignment) best

apply to the observed facts of the case to prepare your answers.

ú Develop your solution in consideration of the principles, theories, or models that

ú you have selected.

ú The assigned questions may require you to consider alternative

solutions.

Choose the best solution. Remember the importance of justifying your choices based on valid evidence.

How to draft the case:

Once you have read the case carefully and gathered the required in information, your case analysis report should usually include:

Introduction

Identify the key problems and issues in the case study.

Formulate and include a thesis statement, summarizing the outcome of your analysis in 1?2 sentences.

Background

Set the scene: background information, relevant facts, and the most important issues.

Demonstrate that you have researched the problems in this case study.

Evaluation of the Case

Outline the various pieces of the case study that you are focusing on.

Evaluate these pieces by discussing what is working and what is not working.

State why these parts of the case study are or are not working well.

Proposed Solution/Changes

Provide specific and realistic solution(s) or changes needed.

Explain why this solution was selected.

Support this solution with concrete evidence, such as:

Concepts from class (text readings, discussions, lectures)

Outside research, theories, Scientific Models

Personal experience (anecdotes)

Recommendations

Determine and discuss specific strategies for accomplishing the proposed solution.

If applicable, recommend further action to resolve some of the issues.

What should be done and who should do it?

After you have composed the first draft of your case study analysis, read through for potential inconsistencies in content or structure.