CASE STUDIES

WHAT THEY ARE:

A case study is usually an indepth study of a group or situation over a period of time. It may involve observation, interviews and questionnaires.

METHODOLOGY:

The following steps are important when developing a case study.

1. State the "problem" or issue of interest.

2. Devise a plan of investigation.

3. Gather and process relevant data from primary and secondary sources as appropriate.

4. Think critically about the research and evaluate their findings.

5. Communicate the results.

 

 

 

1. Description of Situation.

- name of organisation / company.

- location

- purpose of organisation or services provided

- staff numbers and roles

 

 

2. History of Computers in that Situation

- what problems led to the need for a computer system

- when first computer used

- what type of computer, software

- why was this system chosen

- what tasks used for

- additions / improvements through the years

 

 

3. Current Use of Computers

- setup and location, any special facilities

- hardware systems and peripherals (brand name/model, specifications)

- software used (type, specific title if available)

- applications and users (who are the users of specific programs and what tasks do these programs achieve?)

- operational procedures, staff responsibilities

 

 

4. Future Plans

- additional hardware / software acquisitions, upgrades

- different uses

 

 

5. Benefits from using Computers

- benefits to this organisation

- benefits to workers

- benefits to customers / clients / service users

 

 

6. Problems with using Computers

- problems during acquisition / installation

- problems arising during operation

- steps taken to overcome these problems