MG473ZA · Spring 2026

Case Analyses

Case analyses are written assignments where you apply strategic frameworks to real companies. They build the analytical skills you will need for your final project.

How to Analyze a Case
1
Identify the Strategic Issue — What is going on? What is the core problem or challenge the company faces? Distinguish symptoms from root causes.
2
What is Causing It? — Look at the external environment (PESTEL, industry competition) and internal factors (resources, capabilities, costs).
3
What Should They Do? — Identify strategic alternatives. What are the options? Evaluate each against clear criteria.
4
Make a Recommendation — Choose one alternative and justify your choice with evidence. Be specific and confident.
Module 1 — Netflix Case Analysis
Assignment 1
Beginning Analysis: Netflix
20 pts

Apply Chapter 1 & 2 methodology to Netflix's current market position. This is your first full case analysis — focus on being thorough and professional.

What to include:

• Identify Netflix's primary strategic issue (What's going on? What's causing it? What should they do?)
• Choose 3–4 key financial metrics and compare to industry averages
• Analyze at least one primary competitor (Disney+)
• Suggest strategic alternatives with evaluation criteria
• Use library industry reports for financial data

Rubric:

5
Followed Instructions
5
Quality of Analysis
5
Grammar & Syntax
5
Professional Formatting
Module 2 — External Analysis
Assignment 2
PESTEL & Porter's Five Forces
20 pts

Choose any company and complete a full external analysis using both frameworks.

PESTEL: Identify 1–2 relevant factors per category (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, Legal). Rate each: Strong / Moderate / Weak impact.

Porter's Five Forces: Analyze all five forces (Rivalry, Supplier Power, Buyer Power, New Entrants, Substitutes). Rate each: Low / Moderate / High. Explain your reasoning.

Format: 2–3 pages using the provided Word template. Include 3–4 references.

💡 Dr. Polly's Tip

Do not jump straight to solutions. The most common mistake is skipping the analysis and jumping to recommendations. Take your time identifying the real strategic issue first — everything else flows from that. Use library databases for financial data, not just Google.