Case Study Research: A Five Stage Model

Abstract

Case study research has been widely used as a research instrument for data collection in theory building. This paper provides guidelines for the design and execution of case study research in a business setting. It attempts to bridge the gap between case study research and theory development. The study explores the underlying value of ‘good’ theory building as a basis for business excellence. Good theory must have four basic criteria: conceptual definitions, domain limitations, relationship-building and predictions. The propositions of this paper are linked to ongoing research which is using multiple case studies to develop theory in the operations management field. This article emphasizes the importance of construct validity, internal validity, external validity and reliability as virtues for quality research design. The paper does not intend to be exhaustive: the aim is to guide the researcher, presenting suitable case study practices for research within a business context.

Keywords: Case study, Research, Theory building, Management, Methodology, Quality

JEL Classification: C34, I20, I21