Assignment 1: Case Analysis Memo
Purpose and requirements You will complete an individual case analysis that provides an opportunity to develop your skills in assessing an organizational situation and providing support for a particular course of recommended action. This assignment will be in the form of a memo addressed to the executive director of the focal organization, not to exceed 2 single spaced pages. The memo must identify the problem as you see it, recommend solutions, and provide support for your perspective.
State one problem presented by the case and briefly explain the context in which key decisions must be made. Next, describe and assess proposed solutions to the problem, which you believe is the best course of action, and your reasons. Identify the next steps if your proposed solution is adopted and outline an alternative recommendation(s) in the event that your proposed solution is not adopted. Show how the readings informed your understanding of the case and influenced your decision-making. Do not attempt to address every issue in the case; focus on your analysis of the problem and propose a potentially viable solution. Here is the outline I would like you to use:
Memo outline
Executive Summary
Open with a brief one-paragraph summary
What is the context, key issue(s), and your recommendation?
Background
Why are we facing these issues? Identify root causes
Recommendations
o What are your specific recommendations? Rationale? Alternatives?
Next steps
How should your recommendations be implemented? What are the priorities? What is the timeline and what resources are required?
Please use a simple and direct style, putting your conclusion or recommendation in the first paragraph. List references, if necessary, on a concluding page.
Requirements
Page and format requirements: 2 pages, single spaced including all graphics. Use Times New Roman font with reasonable margins (looks count) and a 12 pt font size. References should be included on a separate, final page of the document.
Mechanics Format, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and citation accuracy all count.