Case study

Check off  each of the following once you have addressed it in full. Cross out or delete any that do not apply. Address any aspects that require more work.

Before
1	■ I am clear what I aim to achieve
from this case study.
2	■ I have decided what kind of case study/studies to select.
3	■ I have decided how many cases
to include.
4	■ I have read similar kinds of case study to inform my thinking and
methods.
5	■ I have decided what kind of
methodology or approach to
use (see Chapter 15).
6	■ I have worked out what kind of background information I need,
particular to this case study.
7	■ I have gathered background
information.
8	■ I have written a draft of the background.
9	■ I have set clear parameters
(scale, timeframe, structure, etc.).
10	■ I have decided which methods
to use.
11	■ I have prepared relevant
information and materials for
participants (see Chapter 18).
12	■ I have set up a schedule for
meetings, interviews, observations, accessing data, etc.
13	■ I have decided on appropriate
tools for gathering and recording information.
14	■ I have piloted my methods and
adapted these as needed (see
page 138).

If commissioned by a client
15	■ I have met the client commissioning the study/read their written brief (if relevant).
16	■ I understand what the client wants to
achieve from the case study.
17	■ I have clarified any issues of confidentiality
and ground rules.
18	■ I am keeping in touch with the client, keeping them informed (if relevant).
19	■ The client is aware of what I need from
them in terms of information and access.
20	■ The client has agreed to this access.
21	■ I talked through my conclusions,
recommendations, evidence base and reasoning with the client.
During/after
22	■ I have corroborated my findings against other sources rather than relying only on information provided by the client or participants.
23	■ I have analysed my findings in relation to
questions and themes, rather than just providing a narrative (‘story’) of the case.
24	■ I have structured my material into themed
sections or chapters.
25	■ I have drawn reasoned conclusions and
recommendations based on the evidence.
26	■ I have contextualised my findings with
reference to relevant theory and research.
27	■ I have provided a succinct, numbered list of
recommendations.
28	■ I have considered the broader issues that
can be learnt from this case study, such as new understandings about the wider population or a specific issue.