BUAD 304: Organizational Behavior and Leadership

Lecture Homework: Case Analysis Memo Instructions and Grading Rubric

You are required to complete six (6) case analyses memos. This is important preparation for the
case-based discussion in lecture class. It is also intended for you to practice and apply the
concepts and theories from the readings and video in a real-world situation. We will introduce
the USC-CT framework in the first discussion class as a tool for the case analyses.

The case analyses are of different types. All will require you to understand the situation and key
issues. Most HW Memos require you to use the USC-CT framework in your analysis to identify
the root problem and provide recommendations to the company featured in a particular case.
Case analyses memos will typically consist of (1) identifying the main problem or issue, (2)
creating several alternative solutions to address the problem youve identified, (3) analyzing the
benefits and consequences of each possible course of action, and (4) selecting one alternative as
the recommendation to the manager(s) in a case, along with the supporting logic to explain your
reasoning and choices. The HW Memo for Module 2 requires the application of particular
analytical tools from the readings and lecture to a case. For the remaining cases, you will work
with your assigned team to analyze the case. But you will complete the write-up on your own.
Specific instructions and case questions are listed on each Module Summary Sheet on
Blackboard.

You should not use precious space rehashing facts from the case. Key facts should be used
(sparingly) to help justify particular recommendations. That is, do not simply restate what the
case writer has said in other words. Go beyond the facts provided by the case writer by doing
your own analysis of the situation facing the managers using the USC-CT framework as a tool
and applying the organizational behavior concepts from our course.

The memo is your deliverable summarizing and explaining your analysis of the key problem or
issue then the alternatives and final recommendation you have determined. It is appropriate to
use key terms, theories and concepts from the reading and video lecture (or previous class
sessions) to justify your work.

If you have any questions, dont hesitate to contact your Discussion Instructor for help.

Policies for Case Analysis assignments:

1. Follow the Sample Memo Format (below).

2. The memo should be one page, single-spaced and single-sided (bullet points are
acceptable if the points are explained sufficiently). Use no less than 11-point font and
one-inch margins around the page.

3. HWs are scored on a scale of 5. A complete answer correctly utilizes the terms from the
module in your assignment and applies them correctly. See the grading rubric below.

4. Assignments are returned in discussion section usually within 2 weeks so you get
feedback before the next one is due.

5. Late case analysis assignments will not be accepted. Students must submit Lecture HW
Memo assignments through Turnitin via the Discussion Blackboard site by the deadline.

CRITERION STRONG (4-5) AVERAGE (3-4) WEAK (1-2)
Identification of
Main
Issues/Problems
Clearly and logically
identifies the main
issues/problems
demonstrating a
sophisticated
understanding of the
case situation.
Identifies some but
not all
issues/problems
demonstrating an
accomplished
understanding of the
case situation.
Fails to clearly
identify relevant
issues and/or root
problem.
Demonstrates only a
superficial
understanding of the
case situation.
Analysis and
Evaluation of Key
Issues and Main
Problem
Presents an insightful
and thorough analysis
of the situation
demonstrating a
strong understanding
of relevant OB
concepts.
Presents a thorough
analysis of the
situation. May miss
the opportunity to
apply relevant OB
concepts.
Presents an
incomplete analysis
of some of the
identified issues
and/or main
problem. Does not
use adequate or
relevant OB
concepts.
Determination of
Effective
Alternatives and a
Final Course of
Action
Supports diagnosis
and opinions with
strong arguments and
well-documented
evidence. Considers
the benefits and risks
of the
recommendations.
Supports diagnosis
and opinions with
limited reasoning and
evidence. May be
too narrow or too
broad in
recommendations.
Demonstrates
minimal
consideration of
benefits and risks.
Little or no action
suggested and/or
inappropriate
alternatives
proposed to address
the main problem
identified.
Writing Mechanics
and Formatting
Demonstrates clarity,
accuracy and
relevance.
Formatting is correct
and writing is free of
grammar and spelling
errors.
Occasional grammar
or spelling errors, but
still a clear
presentation of ideas;
lacks organization.
Writing is unfocused
and contains serious
errors. Poorly
organized and does
not follow
guidelines.

Case Study Memo #1

From: Your Name (First name, Last/Family name)

Discussion: Your discussion section number (NOT your lecture section)

Re: Case Memo # (of the assignment): Name of Case
(i.e. Case Memo #1 Motivation: Engstrom Auto Mirror Plant)


Issues/Problem
Clearly identify the key issues and main (root) problem. Use case facts as needed to support
your work. Support your selection of the main problem with clear OB logic (key concepts). Be
clear and concise. This may take 1-2 paragraphs.

Alternatives
Identify at least three alternatives (there may be more) that address the issues caused by the main
problem. Use relevant course concepts, theories and models to explain the benefits and
consequences/challenges of each (pros and cons). We realize that you may have some creative
ideas, but use the material from the course to support your arguments for your three alternatives.
This may take 1-2 paragraphs. It may be in bullet form but must be fully explained.

Recommendation
Choose one of the alternatives as the final recommendation and expand on it. Explain your
choice with solid reasoning informed by what you know and have learned in class. Include
implementation steps if they are relevant. This should be one well-developed, detailed
paragraph.