Symptoms And Problems

Symptoms and Problems
Question
Answered

Identification of Symptoms (10 %) ½ page maximum
Symptoms are indicators of problems. “Clusters” of symptoms aid in pointing toward underlying problems.    Identifies symptoms clearly, with no confusion between symptoms and problems (5 or more). There is no confusion between symptoms and problems. Symptoms are clustered, with each group of symptoms pointing toward an underlying problem.

(10)    Identifies majority of symptoms (at least 5). There is little confusion between symptoms and problems.

(8)    Identifies few, if any symptoms (4 or less). There may be confusion between symptoms, problems and/ or recommendations.

Problem Statements (20%)
½ page maximum
Problems should be stated in terms that are actionable by the decision-maker for the analysis.

A good problem definition keeps the case analysis tightly structured because everything discussed after this point must be related to the problem(s) stated in this section.

Each problem is stated in one sentence, and is not given in the form of a question. There should be no more than 3 problems.    At least 2-3 substantial problems faced by the company’s decision-makers are identified, and stated in terms that are actionable by the company’s leadership.

(20)    At least 1 of the company’s substantial problems is identified and stated in terms that are actionable by the company’s leadership

(15)    2 or more of the following errors apply:

*Problems stated may refer to environmental conditions
*Symptoms are stated as the problems.
*Recommendations are stated as problems.
* Problems may not be stated in single, concise, complete sentences.
* More than 3 problems stated may be included.
(12)
Problem Analysis (15%)
¾ page maximum
Problems are dissected to analyze key factors.     Analysis includes all of the following:
* 2-3 stated problems are analyzed thoughtfully  
* At least 1 strategic analysis tool applied
* Relevant financial analysis is applied (Financial ratios or other financial analysis approach)
(15)    Analysis includes 2 of the following:
* 1 problem is analyzed thoughtfully OR 2 or more problems are covered superficially.
* At least 1 strategic analysis tool applied
* Relevant financial analysis is applied (Financial ratios or other financial analysis approach) (10)    Analysis includes 1 of the items listed in the next column.
(5)
Identification of Alternatives (15%)
This is for brainstorming.    Identifies a comprehensive set of thoughtful alternatives, excluding “Do Nothing” alternatives (6 alternatives).
There is a set of alternatives for each problem.

(15)     Identifies majority of alternatives (4-5 alternatives), excluding “Do Nothing” alternatives.  
May have only 1 set of alternatives for more than one problem.

 (12)    Identifies few, if any alternatives (3 or less alternatives) listed or not all aspects of identified problems are addressed.   (10)