Putting the Case for the Case Study

This paper sets out to review the on-going case study debate. We do not aim to enter the qualitative/quantitative discussion, nor do we suggest that the case study is the ultimate or only form of research. We suggest that case studies should be used in conjunction with other forms of research. What is important is that the techniques selected are appropriate for any proposed research undertaking so that quantitative and qualitative strategies can meaningfully co-exist within the same research project.

We do, however, suggest that in certain sectors the case study approach is misunderstood and under-utilized. The focus of the paper is an objective discussion of a number of issues which have been raised about the case study strategy. The discussion does not assume that there is ‘one type’ of case study, rather it refers to the multitude of case study approaches which can be classified under the case study label.

In addition to a review of the case study debate and some research strategies associated with the approach, the paper discusses a number of pertinent issues which continue to generate much debate. The issues of procedure, a multi-method strategy, objectivity, generalizability and presentation are reviewed in relation to case study research.

The case study approach has weaknesses, and its share of critics, but has become an established and respected form of research. Issues involved in case study research still need to be considered as it becomes more accepted as a viable and insightful form of research.