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14 Case Study Examples | Plus Tips & Templates

When you’re looking to buy a new product on Amazon, how do you decide which of the three thousand options to purchase? If you’re anything like me, you head straight to the customer reviews for an honest, unbiased evaluation.

Case studies are basically the 5-star Amazon reviews of your product or service. They help you showcase the great experience that real customers had and help convince prospects to take the leap. 

In this article we’re discussing what all great case studies have in common and looking at a variety of case study examples to see what you can learn from each one.

What All Great Case Studies Include

The famous opening line from Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina says :

“All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.”

We’d argue the same principle holds true for case studies.

All great case studies have a few characteristics in common.

The customer is the hero of the story  

And as such, they’re the focus of the case study. Following this principle helps readers see themselves in a similar situation and prevents you from accidentally portraying the customer as helpless or incompetent. They’re simply an individual or organization with a problem in need of solving. 

They tell a complete story . 

From challenge to long-term results, the story flows logically, making it easy for readers to follow and remain engaged. 

They’re visually appealing . 

Infographics, charts, professional photos, and block quotes help break up the text and make key points memorable. A clean design enhances readability so readers are more likely to make it all the way through your case study. 

They end with a CTA . 

At its core, a case study is a marketing tool. It should include a call-to-action that encourages readers to take the next step so they can experience similar results as the subject of the case study. 

14 Case Study Examples

We’ve rounded up 14 case study examples that drive home the point and help build a case for a product or service. We’ll look at what each one does well and where there is room for improvement, giving you the insight you need to create your own compelling case study. 

Government case studies 

Case study 1: the £10 billion it disaster at the nhs.

Henrico Dolfing is a project manager who partners with executives and corporations to provide guidance in tech-related industries. His case study differs from many others on the list simply because Dolfing isn’t technically the customer or the service provider; he’s a subjective third party looking at what went well and what could have been improved.

The case study looks at the almost decade-long history of the National Program for IT within the NHS. Just from the title, you get a clear idea of where the article is heading. 

Headings and subheadings effectively break the case study into smaller sections, but Dolfing opts not to include any graphics. A lengthy timeline in the first half of the case study offers the perfect opportunity for an infographic . 

Compare a section of the original timeline to what an AI-generated timeline from Piktochart could look like—

Want to create a similar timeline for your case study? Piktochart AI creates quality infographics from any prompt– no design expertise needed. 

Once he’s established his authority as an expert in this field, Dolfing sprinkles the same CTA throughout the case study, encouraging readers to engage with his lead magnet.

By the way– the lead magnet isn’t anything fancy, just a Google Form that asks for an email address and then guides readers through the 27-question assessment. 

Takeaway : There’s nothing wrong with using a simple and straightforward format to connect with an audience just looking for the facts, but visuals may make it easier for them to distill the information.

Case study 2: How the Scottish Police Got £25 Million Back but Lost 3 Years on I6

At over 4,000 words, this lengthy case study from Dolfing looks at another project failure within the government.

This go around, the same timeline format is included to outline the events of the entire project. But a colorful timeline graphic comes before, showcasing the events using a month-by-month breakdown. 

Quotes included in a later review of the program are included within the introduction, expanding upon the background context and demonstrating the lengths Dolfing went to in order to research this event. 

The final sections, titled How Scottish Police Could Have Done Things Differently and Closing Thoughts , allow Dolfing to discuss his own insight into potential changes that could have led to a better outcome and again encourage readers to engage with his lead magnet. 

Takeaway : Use third-party case studies to demonstrate your expertise in your industry or to learn from the failures of others. 

Short case studies

Short case studies are perfect for clients who have a short attention span or limited time they can devote to reading a lengthy case study. 

Case study 3: Intuit continues powering prosperity around the world with the help of Twilio Verify

Powerful metrics set the stage as readers begin this case study, before jumping into a basic description of the client and the solution they utilized. 

The content is broken into a quick intro + three digestible sections. However, the majority of the case study focuses on the challenges that Intuit faced, only describing the solution and outcome in the final section. 

Several metrics describe the results that the customer experienced, using a combination of numerals, percentages, and time-based data to paint a rounded picture of the outcome.

The results described clearly highlight how the solution was a stark contrast to the challenges that Intuit had previously experienced, when:

From taking 2-9 months per country to 3 months for over 200 countries, Twilio becomes an obvious choice for any companies experiencing a similar hurdle. 

This case study is notably light on visuals, counting on the short content being enough to keep readers’ attention. It includes a couple quotes from Intuit’s principal product manager, which describe the company’s challenges but don’t comment about the solution’s effectiveness.

Takeaway: Include a mixture of metrics to emphasize the power of your solution and show readers what they can expect in working with you.

Case study 4: Automation keeps Spotify’s ad business growing year over year.

Crystal clear section headings and a mixture of graphics make this case study especially compelling and engaging. 

Graphics include—

• an intro video
• an icon list of Salesforce products referenced in the case study
• a callout quote from 
• an infographics of results

A lot of case studies will use headings that vaguely reference the product or client. Salesforce helps readers know exactly what they’re reading about by using headings like—

• What you need to know
• Why it matters
• What the difference looks like

The case study doesn’t follow the distinct “Challenge, Solution, Results” framework. Instead, it utilizes a problem/solution pattern that describes different ways Salesforce helped resolve hurdles the Spotify team was facing. 

A variety of data points are included throughout the content and speak to improvements in several areas such as a 40% increase in sales team productivity, a 53% increase in click-through-rates, and a fivefold increase in marketing campaigns each year. No matter what challenges that readers are facing, they’re likely to feel like Salesforce is an ideal solution. 

Takeaway: It’s okay to lean into simple– it makes your content skimmable and easier for readers to find what they’re looking for.

Want to quickly create your own short case study? Piktochart’s AI case study generator can make one for you in seconds. Just share your prompt and pick a template to customize within seconds.

Marketing-based case studies

Case study 5: creating the impossible ad with ai: tombras.

This case study is part of a series from the Google Editorial Team, sharing how marketing agencies use Google’s AI tool, Gemini, to undertake an impossible ad campaign.

The article begins with a snapshot of what the marketing campaign looked like, displaying just a few of the thousands of AI-generated copy lines. We love the examples, but reading the quips requires some squinting and zooming, taking away from the impact they could have had. 

Fortunately, readers can catch more of the copy examples in a short video that breaks apart the wall of text and showcases the effectiveness of the AI tool. 

Talk about AI can be overwhelming and even scary for some people. This case study devotes several paragraphs to explaining the implementation of Google’s AI tool so that potential users understand how they can utilize Gemini in their own business as well. 

The results section is clearly identified and easy for readers to find– and it speaks to a strong outcome– but none of the data is highlighted or emphasized. If readers want to know what happened, they’re going to have to dig down into the text. 

Takeaway: Include videos to appeal to a wider audience and make it easier to repurpose your case study. 

Case study 6: How Dropbox increased blog traffic by 30%

Right from the title, this case study emphasizes results that the customer experienced. (BTW– did you notice how the title makes the customer the hero of the story?) Two key metrics are also introduced before any text, but act as some of the only graphics in the whole article. 

Callout quotes help break up long blocks of text, and both callout quotes highlight the power of the solution that Airtable offered. Additional quotes within the text create a narrative that walks readers through the challenge, solution, and results. 

However, without any section titles, the case study isn’t very skimmable, and it can be a little challenging to identify relevant themes that readers might connect with. 

Takeaway: Long blocks of text may cause readers to disengage. You need graphics and headings to help guide their eyes through your content.

Case study 7: How a marketing agency increased client conversions 35% with Zapier Canvas

Here’s another case study that emphasizes results right from the start. 

Every section of the article is labeled in a straightforward manner that makes it easy to follow.

Each section also includes quotes from the customer, creating a flow from one part to the next and tying all of the content together. 

Since the case study is discussing the AI-powered diagramming tool that the client used, it includes a snapshot of the diagramming tool in use. This helps readers visualize an otherwise abstract concept and understand how the tool could be used for their own business. 

If you’re interested in including similar visuals in your case study, check out our flowchart templates for dozens of premade templates that can be personalized to meet your needs in minutes. 

Only one data point is included– the 35% increase in conversions, but additional results are also mentioned, including faster onboarding for new employees.

Takeaway: Include snapshots of your solution to help potential customers imagine what implementation would look like for them. 

Case study 8: How Shapeways Increased Their Click‑Through Rates by 525%

Compelling graphics grab your attention and walk you through this entire case study. 

Readers are immediately introduced to the case study subjects with a photo beneath the title (although a caption that includes names and titles could make this visual really shine). 

A bulleted introduction gives you all of the necessary background for the customer.

Brand logos, a callout quote, and the colored section block break apart the text.

Finally, the results section begins with this unmissable testament to the role that Mailchimp played in the subject’s growth.

Takeaway : A mixture of graphics combined with ample white space makes your case study easy on the eyes. Visuals that pop are the perfect opportunity to highlight key results and all the praise your customer has to offer. 

Education-based case studies

Case study 9: collaboration with dropbox empowers the university of florida’s land grants.

Everything about this case study speaks to maximum efficiency. 

An introductory section provides basic information about the subject, and headings labeled Challenge and Solution clearly identify all of the pertinent information.

A comprehensive challenge section pinpoints the exact problems that UF was facing. This makes it easy for readers to relate and imagine how Dropbox could solve similar issues at their own school or university. 

We love the callout quote combined with a photo of the subject and university logo for maximum authority and impact—

In the absence of measurable data, the case study gives specific examples of how Dropbox has benefitted the University of Florida.

Dropbox closes the page with a CTA designed to appeal to other educational institutes. 

Takeaway : Don’t skimp on explaining the problems your subject was facing. Paint a detailed picture so you can show exactly how your offering resolved these issues. 

Non-profit case studies

Case study 10: how reveal overhauled the way it hires, onboards and promotes employees to create a more inclusive workplace.

Although this case study is longer than most (9 pages, to be exact), it utilizes that real estate to showcase the challenge and results in a visually stunning manner. 

Just in the sidebar you’ll find—

• block quotes

The content itself is broken into sections clearly labeled with Introduction, The Challenge, What they did, and The Results. The final page distills all of the content into Three Lessons Learned, each numbered and broken into its own column. 

Of course, we can’t forget the screenshots that were also included in the case study, which offer real-life examples of how the solution was implemented. 

Takeaway : Don’t be afraid of using a lengthy, in-depth case study to take a deep dive into your offerings if you buffer the text with a variety of visuals. A running sidebar offers the perfect place to insert graphics and decreases the volume of text on each page.

Case study 11: Reach Out and Read

Three succinct sections outline the subject, problem, and solution of this case study, making it a brief but impactful read. Just take a look at the section that describes the problem— a single sentence paired with a professional photograph. 

To wrap it up, Community Boost intertwines the solution they offered with the results that their customer experienced, emphasizing metrics that were introduced at the top of the case study. They mention tight time constraints and a short campaign window to highlight their effectiveness even when working under pressure. 

Takeaway : Emphasize urgency in your case study to showcase the efficient way you can help customers address their problems. 

Case study 12: How CNIB Continued Critical Programs, Peer Support & Education During COVID-19

One of the highlights of this case study is the formatting at the very beginning. A small section introduces key information about the customer and outlines the challenges, solutions, and benefits they experienced. The section also includes a snippet from the customer’s Vice President of Property & Technology, Frank Lombardo.

Lombardo isn’t just quoted in the opening section of the case study, either. Nearly a third of the article is made up of quotes from Lombardo, which literally allows the customer’s experience to speak for itself. 

Just check out this snippet below and notice how much of the section is Lombardo speaking, all of which is highlighted.

The case study also does a great job highlighting how Zoom’s unique selling point– in this case its accessibility features– made it the ideal solution for the CNIB. This is emphasized when Lombardo mentions that while the organization itself utilizes Microsoft Office 365, they found Zoom easier for their community to learn and use. 

Takeaway : Use case study interviews to form the narrative of your case study and decrease the amount of writing you have to do. 

E-commerce case studies

Case study 13: how zapier helped this spanish ecommerce company scale.

This case study discusses how a Spanish company, Materialesdefabrica.com, used Zapier’s automation tools (called Zaps) to simplify their order fulfillment process. 

One of the standout features of this case study is the way Zapier seamlessly integrates their product into the article by including Try it sections. In each section, readers can learn more about the Zaps that the customer used and access each one for their own use. 

Clicking on Details gives readers an explanation of how to use the Zap for their own records.

Unfortunately, other than the Try it sections, this case study is light on visuals. One easy spot to add a visual feature would have been with this quote from the CEO.

As well as in the results section that includes relevant metrics.

Takeaway : Allowing your readers the opportunity to immediately try your offering is one of the most powerful CTAs you can include in a case study.

Case study 14: Wayfair is right at home with Slack

A witty title grabs the audience’s attention right from the start, and a mixture of graphics make this case study a compelling one. 

The case study knocks it out of the park with stunning photography and a block quote at the top of the page.

Because the case study is on the longer side, a table of contents to the left makes it easier for readers to find the information they want and get a clear picture of what they’ll be reading. Accompanied with two CTAs, there’s no missed opportunities here. 

The case study also includes a box with metrics that outline Wayfair’s success and use of Slack, not so subtly tying the two together.

With several different sections throughout the case study, Slack emphasizes different ways their software has helped Wayfair see results. They mention things like:

• resolving tech incidents “at lightning speed”
• reducing spending on employee tech software
• automating employee tasks across all departments
• creating a culture of recognition 

Takeaway : Take the time to paint a complete picture of the results your solution has led to. Readers will ultimately relate to at least one– if not all– of them. 

Tips for creating your case study

After seeing 14 case study examples, you should have a better idea of what to do and what not to do when writing your own case study. A lot of what we pointed out can be summed up in the six tips below. 

Get it all out, then edit

Instead of worrying about what to include or cut out, brain dump everything into your first draft. From there, you can break up the information into meaningful chunks and determine what content fits into the story you want to tell. 

Once you decide which parts you want to cut, don’t just delete them– paste the content into a different document so you can repurpose it for other mediums and marketing tools. 

If you conducted an interview as part of your case study, review the entire transcript and determine where you can include quotes that align with the theme of each section. 

Make it scannable

Few readers are going to dive headfirst into the content of your case study— at least not right off the bat. Include formatting such as headers and bullet points to summarize your main ideas and make it easier for readers to get the gist of what you’re saying. 

Visuals such as charts, graphs, and timelines simplify any data you’re sharing and make it more accessible and understandable. 

Use Piktochart’s AI-powered visual generator to transform data into easy-to-read infographics for your case studies.

Highlight emotional and tangible benefits.

Create a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience on a personal and practical level. 

Client testimonials help readers connect with your subject. If you’re not up for a face-to-face chat or even a video conference, email your customer with a few questions to hear about their experience. Potential questions can include—

• What challenge or problem led you to seek a solution?
• What made you choose our product or service?
• What feature or aspect of our solution has been the most valuable for you?
• Can you share any specific metrics or outcomes since using our solution (e.g., time saved, costs reduced, increased revenue)?
• What would you say to someone considering using our product/service?

Include concrete data and metrics to prove results

Use a combination of qualitative and quantitative data to substantiate impact. Include real numbers and percentages, such as, “Department productivity increased by 35% within three months,” or “The automation software completed 300,000 data entry tasks over the third quarter, saving approximately 750 employee hours.”

Additional data points will emphasize the power of your solution. Utilize before-and-after comparisons to help prove how your solution created tangible improvements, or include industry benchmarks to compare your results to the average results of competitors. 

Follow the “Challenge, Solution, Results” structure

The Challenge, Solution, Results structure is a straightforward outline for the case study that involves three parts. This framework makes your case study easy to follow and helps you connect with potential customers facing similar issues. 

• Challenge : The challenge section introduces your client and the problem they were facing. Use it to build tension before you transition into the solution phase. 

Begin by providing background information about the client such as their company size and industry. When describing the challenge that the customer/client was facing, including relevant data that illustrates the severity of the issue. 

• Solution : The solution section bridges the gap between the problem and the results, emphasizing how your unique product/service can help readers who are experiencing the same challenge. 

In this section, explain the solution that was implemented. Highlight the unique aspects of your product/service/strategy that made it the perfect fit for the client’s needs, and provide an overview of how you deployed the solution, including a general timeline. 

This is a great opportunity to note features or tools that made a notable difference but can only be accessed by using your offer. 

• Results: This final section describes the outcome of your solution to reinforce your authority as someone who can solve the reader’s problem, ultimately building trust and leading to conversions. 

When writing the results section, recount the outcome of implementation, including clear metrics that highlight the success of the solution. Focus on outcomes that will matter to your audience, such as operational efficiency, cost savings, increased revenue, or improved customer retention. 

Repurpose your case study

Consider what content you cut from the initial draft of your case study and how you can utilize it in another way. You might create a second case study that appeals to a different audience, or you might share pieces of your case study in different formats including:

• infographics
• social media posts
• video content
• email campaigns
• whitepapers

Save your best for writing – Let AI do the design

The most powerful case studies include a compelling narrative and graphics that help bring the story to life. 

Once you’ve created your written content, let Piktochart help create your visual. Pull from our library of templates or save even more time by using our AI case study generator to suggest formats. 

Case Study Examples FAQs

What are the 7 types of case studies.

Two renowned researchers, Robert Yin and Robert Stake, have identified seven types of case studies. 

• Explanatory case studies investigate causal investigation, often attempting to answer a ‘how’ or ‘why’ questions. 
• Exploratory case studies typically occur before undertaking large-scale research. 
• Descriptive case studies look for connections between a theory and the subject being studied. 
• Problem-solving case studies investigate an issue in order for researchers to suggest potential solutions. 
• Intrinsic case studies take place when the researcher has a personal interest in what’s being studied.
• Instrumental case studies look at a particular group or case to gather insight about a broader issue. 
• Collective case studies are used to study a group of people. 

What’s the difference between a case study and a testimonial?

A case study is an in-depth, structured examination of how a product or service solved a problem for a client. It includes several sections that outline the problem, proposed solution, and outcome, along with data that highlights the success of the solution. Case studies can range in length; most are a single page or two, but some may be a few dozen pages long. 

Testimonials are brief statements of praise from satisfied customers or clients. They may be included as part of a case study and can often be found throughout a company’s website. Testimonials can be anywhere from a few sentences to a few paragraphs long, but most wouldn’t even fill half a page of text.

What should be included in a case study?

Key elements of a case study include:

• A clear problem statement that highlights a single challenge the client was facing.
• Background information on the customer or client, which can include company size, location, industry, 
• The proposed solution or strategy.
• Implementation details explaining how the solution was put into action.
• Results and outcomes , often paired with data points that highlight the success of the solution. 
• Customer testimonials from those who were positively impacted by the solution. 

Visual elements such as charts, graphs, timelines, and other graphics that simplify data so it’s easy to understand in the context of the case study.

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• All Headlines

Top 40 Most Popular Case Studies of 2021

Two cases about Hertz claimed top spots in 2021's Top 40 Most Popular Case Studies

Two cases on the uses of debt and equity at Hertz claimed top spots in the CRDT’s (Case Research and Development Team) 2021 top 40 review of cases.

Hertz (A) took the top spot. The case details the financial structure of the rental car company through the end of 2019. Hertz (B), which ranked third in CRDT’s list, describes the company’s struggles during the early part of the COVID pandemic and its eventual need to enter Chapter 11 bankruptcy. 

The success of the Hertz cases was unprecedented for the top 40 list. Usually, cases take a number of years to gain popularity, but the Hertz cases claimed top spots in their first year of release. Hertz (A) also became the first ‘cooked’ case to top the annual review, as all of the other winners had been web-based ‘raw’ cases.

Besides introducing students to the complicated financing required to maintain an enormous fleet of cars, the Hertz cases also expanded the diversity of case protagonists. Kathyrn Marinello was the CEO of Hertz during this period and the CFO, Jamere Jackson is black.

Sandwiched between the two Hertz cases, Coffee 2016, a perennial best seller, finished second. “Glory, Glory, Man United!” a case about an English football team’s IPO made a surprise move to number four.  Cases on search fund boards, the future of malls,  Norway’s Sovereign Wealth fund, Prodigy Finance, the Mayo Clinic, and Cadbury rounded out the top ten.

Other year-end data for 2021 showed:

• Online “raw” case usage remained steady as compared to 2020 with over 35K users from 170 countries and all 50 U.S. states interacting with 196 cases.
• Fifty four percent of raw case users came from outside the U.S..
• The Yale School of Management (SOM) case study directory pages received over 160K page views from 177 countries with approximately a third originating in India followed by the U.S. and the Philippines.
• Twenty-six of the cases in the list are raw cases.
• A third of the cases feature a woman protagonist.
• Orders for Yale SOM case studies increased by almost 50% compared to 2020.
• The top 40 cases were supervised by 19 different Yale SOM faculty members, several supervising multiple cases.

CRDT compiled the Top 40 list by combining data from its case store, Google Analytics, and other measures of interest and adoption.

All of this year’s Top 40 cases are available for purchase from the Yale Management Media store .

And the Top 40 cases studies of 2021 are:

1.   Hertz Global Holdings (A): Uses of Debt and Equity

2.   Coffee 2016

3.   Hertz Global Holdings (B): Uses of Debt and Equity 2020

4.   Glory, Glory Man United!

5.   Search Fund Company Boards: How CEOs Can Build Boards to Help Them Thrive

6.   The Future of Malls: Was Decline Inevitable?

7.   Strategy for Norway's Pension Fund Global

8.   Prodigy Finance

9.   Design at Mayo

10. Cadbury

11. City Hospital Emergency Room

13. Volkswagen

14. Marina Bay Sands

15. Shake Shack IPO

16. Mastercard

17. Netflix

18. Ant Financial

19. AXA: Creating the New CR Metrics

20. IBM Corporate Service Corps

21. Business Leadership in South Africa's 1994 Reforms

22. Alternative Meat Industry

23. Children's Premier

24. Khalil Tawil and Umi (A)

25. Palm Oil 2016

26. Teach For All: Designing a Global Network

27. What's Next? Search Fund Entrepreneurs Reflect on Life After Exit

28. Searching for a Search Fund Structure: A Student Takes a Tour of Various Options

30. Project Sammaan

31. Commonfund ESG

32. Polaroid

33. Connecticut Green Bank 2018: After the Raid

34. FieldFresh Foods

35. The Alibaba Group

36. 360 State Street: Real Options

37. Herman Miller

38. AgBiome

39. Nathan Cummings Foundation

40. Toyota 2010

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Published on: Dec 10, 2024

Last updated on: Dec 10, 2024

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A Detailed Case Study Guide: Everything You Need To Know!

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Ever wondered how a real-world example can transform your understanding of a complex topic? That’s the quality of case studies—they bring theories to life with relatable examples.

But if you’re feeling weighed down by the structure, details, and purpose of crafting a great case study, you’re not alone. Many struggle with how to step into the process and create a meaningful analysis. 

The good news? Learning from practical examples can simplify the process and give you a clear path to follow. In this blog, we’ll start by breaking down exactly what a case study is, so let’s jump into the essentials!

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What Is A Case Study

A case study is a detailed examination of a specific subject—often a person, group, event, or organization—used to illustrate a broader principle or provide insight into complex issues. 

It’s a real-life example that allows researchers or professionals to analyze outcomes, identify challenges, and understand the implications in a practical context. 

By breaking down an actual scenario, such a study reveals insights that might be overlooked in general research. 

Whether used in business, social sciences, or healthcare, case studies are powerful tools that bring theoretical concepts to life. This makes them relatable and easier to grasp for readers and learners alike.

Vital Sections For A Comprehensive Case Study

A professional case study is most effective when it includes core elements that provide a clear, structured analysis for readers.

• Introduction & Background – Provide context for the case, including relevant history or background details.
• Problem or Objective – Clearly define the main issue or objective the study seeks to address.
• Research & Analysis – Outline the research methods used and present the data collected.
• Solution or Approach – Describe the solution implemented, including any steps taken or strategies applied.
• Results & Outcomes – Summarize the results achieved, supported by metrics or observations.
• Lessons Learned – Reflect on key takeaways or insights gained from the case.

Next, let’s explore case study examples tailored specifically for scholars, showcasing real-world applications and insights.

Case Study Examples For Students

Exploring everyday practical examples is one of the best ways to understand how a visually appealing case study comes together. In this section, we’ll take a look into a range of examples across various fields and disciplines. 

These case study examples PDFs will illustrate the case study format effectively, following best practices that bring the analysis to life. By examining these diverse scenarios, students can gain valuable insights into crafting their own interesting case studies with clarity, depth, and purpose.

Business Case Study Examples

Examining business case studies offers valuable insights into how companies address challenges and drive potential clients plus growth. 

Here, we’ll explore examples from both small businesses and large businesses to understand their strategies and outcomes.

The Rise of Brewed Awakenings Coffee Shop

Tesla’s Market Disruption in Electric Vehicles

Nursing Case Study Examples

Nursing case studies offer practical insights into patient care, decision-making, and clinical problem-solving. 

Here, we’ll look at two studies—one focusing on pediatric care and another on geriatric care—to explore different patient scenarios and nursing interventions.

Pediatric Nursing – Managing Acute Asthma in a Child

Geriatric Nursing – Managing Medication and Fall Prevention in an Elderly Patient

Patient Case Study Examples

Patient case studies provide in-depth guidance into diagnosing, treating, and managing individual health cases. 

Below, we present two detailed examples that illustrate how personalized care and strategic medical intervention can address complex patient conditions.

Management of Chronic Kidney Disease in a Middle-Aged Patient

Acute Care for a Patient with Traumatic Brain Injury

Case Study Examples For Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in rehabilitation and recovery from injuries and medical conditions. 

Rehabilitation of a Post-Surgical Knee Patient

Physiotherapy Management of a Stroke Patient

Case Study Examples Medical

In the medical field, case studies serve as valuable tools for understanding complex clinical scenarios and improving treatment strategies. 

Below are two extensive studies that highlight the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of different medical conditions, providing insights into clinical practice and patient care.

Management of Type 2 Diabetes in an Elderly Patient

Managing Chronic Heart Failure in a Middle-Aged Patient

Case Study Examples In Research

In research, case studies provide data-driven insights that address long-term challenges and highlight innovative solutions and their resulting impacts. 

The following examples illustrate how researchers have navigated complex issues through comprehensive methodologies, leading to significant findings and contributions to their respective fields.

Investigating the Impact of Remote Work on Employee Productivity

Evaluating the Efficacy of Telehealth in Managing Chronic Conditions

Case Study Examples With Solutions PDF

This section presents compelling examples that focus on real-world challenges, solutions, and results achieved through innovative strategies. 

By examining these case studies, readers can gain valuable knowledge of problem-solving approaches that have proven successful across different industries, products, or services.

Transforming a Retail Chain's Potential Customer Experience

Streamlining Operations for a Healthcare Provider

Mental Health Case Study Examples PDF

This segment presents insightful case studies focusing on common dilemmas faced by individuals and communities. 

Each example follows a structured case study template, providing a comprehensive analysis of issues, interventions, and outcomes that can serve as a guide for professionals in the field.

Overcoming Anxiety in Adolescents

Managing Depression in Adults

Psychology Case Study Examples PDF

Here we’ll be providing in-depth examples that illustrate the application of psychological theories and therapeutic interventions in real-world scenarios. 

Each case study presents unique challenges, treatment approaches, and outcomes, offering valuable insights for psychology students and researchers alike.

Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Addressing Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) through Psychotherapy

Counselling Case Study Examples PDF

This section explores short examples that illustrate various counseling approaches and their effectiveness in addressing clients' unique challenges. 

Each case provides insights into the counseling process, including assessment, intervention strategies, and outcomes, serving as a valuable resource for scholars and specialists in the field.

Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Esteem Issues

Navigating Grief and Loss

Social Work Case Study Examples PDF

Social work case studies reveal how targeted interventions and support strategies impact individuals and communities. 

These examples demonstrate various approaches, from direct client interaction to resource coordination, showcasing the role of social work in addressing complex social issues.

Assisting a Family in Crisis

Supporting a Senior with Chronic Health Issues and Social Isolation

Content Marketing Case Study Examples PDF

Content marketing case studies offer real-world insights into how targeted strategies on social media, blog posts, and other platforms drive audience engagement, address brand challenges, and achieve measurable results. 

Boosting Brand Engagement Through Social Media for a Lifestyle Brand

Increasing Traffic and Conversions Through Blog Content for an E-Commerce Platform

Top-Notch Tips For Writing A Brilliant Case Study

Learn the art of coming up with a case study that captures attention and communicates impact with these essential tips.

• Know Your Audience : Tailor the content and tone to match the knowledge level and interests of your target readers for maximum engagement.
• Choose The Right Subject : Focus on a case that highlights unique challenges and solutions, offering readers insightful takeaways.
• Outline A Clear Objective : Define what you want the study to achieve, such as showcasing expertise or educating the audience on best practices.
• Tell A Story : Engage readers by narrating the case in a story format, with a beginning (problem), middle (solution), and end (results).
• Use Data To Support Claims : Strengthen your points with quantifiable data, like statistics or key performance indicators, to boost credibility.
• Include Visuals : Incorporate graphs, images, and infographics to break up text and visually emphasize critical insights.
• Highlight Key Challenges & Solutions : Detail the primary hurdles and how they were overcome, illustrating the value of your approach.
• Showcase Real Results : Provide clear, measurable outcomes to demonstrate the study's success and effectiveness.
• Keep It Concise : Avoid unnecessary details and focus on the most impactful information to maintain reader interest.
• End With A Strong Conclusion : Summarize the impact, lessons learned, and how the reader can benefit from the insights presented.

Crafting an effective case study requires thoughtful preparation, clear storytelling, and an emphasis on real-world impact. Whether for business, healthcare, or academic purposes, a well-structured study highlights unique issues and solutions, backed by solid data and insights. 

By following best practices and viewing examples across different fields, you’re equipped to develop informative case studies that resonate with your audience and demonstrate expertise.

Ready to take your writing skills to the next level? Opt for our college essay writing service for expert guidance. Besides, if you’re looking for a professionally crafted case study, visit our ‘ buy case study ’ service specially tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a case study.

An example of a case study is a detailed analysis of a specific business or individual scenario, focusing on a problem faced, the solutions applied, and the results achieved. For instance, a case study might examine how a small business increased sales by adopting a new marketing strategy, showcasing the process and measurable outcomes.

How do you write a case study?

To write a case study, start by identifying a clear objective and selecting a relevant subject. Outline the problem, describe the solution implemented, and present the results with supporting data. Conclude with insights or takeaways that highlight the case’s impact or significance.

What are the 4 types of case studies?

The 4 types of case studies are:

• Exploratory – Investigates an issue or problem to understand it better.
• Descriptive – Provides an in-depth account of a subject within its real-life context.
• Explanatory – Examines cause-and-effect relationships to explain why something happened.
• Intrinsic – Focuses on a unique or interesting case, studied for its own sake rather than for broader insights.

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Home » Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Table of Contents

A case study is an in-depth examination of a single case or a few selected cases within a real-world context. Case study research is widely used across disciplines such as psychology, sociology, business, and education to explore complex phenomena in detail. Unlike other research methods that aim for broad generalizations, case studies offer an intensive understanding of a specific individual, group, event, or situation.

A case study is a research method that involves a detailed examination of a subject (the “case”) within its real-life context. Case studies are used to explore the causes of underlying principles, behaviors, or outcomes, providing insights into the nuances of the studied phenomena. This approach allows researchers to capture a wide array of factors and interactions that may not be visible in other methods, such as experiments or surveys.

Key Characteristics of Case Studies :

• Focus on a specific case, individual, or event.
• Provide in-depth analysis and contextual understanding.
• Useful for exploring new or complex phenomena.
• Generate rich qualitative data that contributes to theory building.

Types of Case Studies

Case studies can be classified into different types depending on their purpose and methodology. Common types include exploratory , descriptive , explanatory , intrinsic , and instrumental case studies.

1. Exploratory Case Study

Definition : An exploratory case study investigates an area where little is known. It helps to identify questions, variables, and hypotheses for future research.

Characteristics :

• Often used in the early stages of research.
• Focuses on discovery and hypothesis generation.
• Helps clarify research questions.

Example : Examining how remote work affects team dynamics in an organization that has recently transitioned to a work-from-home model.

2. Descriptive Case Study

Definition : A descriptive case study provides a detailed account of a particular case, describing it within its context. The goal is to provide a complete and accurate depiction without necessarily exploring underlying causes.

• Focuses on describing the case in detail.
• Provides comprehensive data to paint a clear picture of the phenomenon.
• Helps understand “what” happened without delving into “why.”

Example : Documenting the process and outcomes of a corporate restructuring within a company, describing the actions taken and their immediate effects.

3. Explanatory Case Study

Definition : An explanatory case study aims to explain the cause-and-effect relationships of a particular case. It focuses on understanding “how” or “why” something happened.

• Useful for causal analysis.
• Aims to provide insights into mechanisms and processes.
• Often used in social sciences and psychology to study behavior and interactions.

Example : Investigating why a school’s test scores improved significantly after implementing a new teaching method.

4. Intrinsic Case Study

Definition : An intrinsic case study focuses on a unique or interesting case, not because of what it represents but because of its intrinsic value. The researcher’s interest lies in understanding the case itself.

• Driven by the researcher’s interest in the particular case.
• Not meant to generalize findings to broader contexts.
• Focuses on gaining a deep understanding of the specific case.

Example : Studying a particularly successful start-up to understand its founder’s unique leadership style.

5. Instrumental Case Study

Definition : An instrumental case study examines a particular case to gain insights into a broader issue. The case serves as a tool for understanding something more general.

• The case itself is not the focus; rather, it is a vehicle for exploring broader principles or theories.
• Helps apply findings to similar situations or cases.
• Useful for theory testing or development.

Example : Studying a well-known patient’s therapy process to understand the general principles of effective psychological treatment.

Methods of Conducting a Case Study

Case studies can involve various research methods to collect data and analyze the case comprehensively. The primary methods include interviews , observations , document analysis , and surveys .

1. Interviews

Definition : Interviews allow researchers to gather in-depth information from individuals involved in the case. These interviews can be structured, semi-structured, or unstructured, depending on the study’s goals.

• Develop a list of open-ended questions aligned with the study’s objectives.
• Conduct interviews with individuals directly or indirectly involved in the case.
• Record, transcribe, and analyze the responses to identify key themes.

Example : Interviewing employees, managers, and clients in a company to understand the effects of a new business strategy.

2. Observations

Definition : Observations involve watching and recording behaviors, actions, and events within the case’s natural setting. This method provides first-hand data on interactions, routines, and environmental factors.

• Define the behaviors and interactions to observe.
• Conduct observations systematically, noting relevant details.
• Analyze patterns and connections in the observed data.

Example : Observing interactions between teachers and students in a classroom to evaluate the effectiveness of a teaching method.

3. Document Analysis

Definition : Document analysis involves reviewing existing documents related to the case, such as reports, emails, memos, policies, or archival records. This provides historical and contextual data that can complement other data sources.

• Identify relevant documents that offer insights into the case.
• Systematically review and code the documents for themes or categories.
• Compare document findings with data from interviews and observations.

Example : Analyzing company policies, performance reports, and emails to study the process of implementing a new organizational structure.

Definition : Surveys are structured questionnaires administered to a group of people involved in the case. Surveys are especially useful for gathering quantitative data that supports or complements qualitative findings.

• Design survey questions that align with the research goals.
• Distribute the survey to a sample of participants.
• Analyze the survey responses, often using statistical methods.

Example : Conducting a survey among customers to measure satisfaction levels after a service redesign.

Case Study Guide: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: define the research questions.

• Clearly outline what you aim to understand or explain.
• Define specific questions that the case study will answer, such as “What factors led to X outcome?”

Step 2: Select the Case(s)

• Choose a case (or cases) that are relevant to your research question.
• Ensure that the case is feasible to study, accessible, and likely to yield meaningful data.

Step 3: Determine the Data Collection Methods

• Decide which methods (e.g., interviews, observations, document analysis) will best capture the information needed.
• Consider combining multiple methods to gather rich, well-rounded data.

Step 4: Collect Data

• Gather data using your chosen methods, following ethical guidelines such as informed consent and confidentiality.
• Take comprehensive notes and record interviews or observations when possible.

Step 5: Analyze the Data

• Organize the data into themes, patterns, or categories.
• Use qualitative or quantitative analysis methods, depending on the nature of the data.
• Compare findings across data sources to identify consistencies and discrepancies.

Step 6: Interpret Findings

• Draw conclusions based on the analysis, relating the findings to your research questions.
• Consider alternative explanations and assess the generalizability of your findings.

Step 7: Report Results

• Write a detailed report that presents your findings and explains their implications.
• Discuss the limitations of the case study and potential directions for future research.

Examples of Case Study Applications

• Objective : To understand the success factors of a high-growth tech company.
• Methods : Interviews with key executives, analysis of internal reports, and customer satisfaction surveys.
• Outcome : Insights into unique management practices and customer engagement strategies.
• Objective : To examine the impact of project-based learning on student engagement.
• Methods : Observations in classrooms, interviews with teachers, and analysis of student performance data.
• Outcome : Evidence of increased engagement and enhanced critical thinking skills among students.
• Objective : To explore the effectiveness of a new mental health intervention.
• Methods : Interviews with patients, assessment of clinical outcomes, and reviews of therapist notes.
• Outcome : Identification of factors that contribute to successful treatment outcomes.
• Objective : To assess the impact of urban development on local wildlife.
• Methods : Observations of wildlife, analysis of environmental data, and interviews with residents.
• Outcome : Findings showing the effects of urban sprawl on species distribution and biodiversity.

Case studies are valuable for in-depth exploration and understanding of complex phenomena within their real-life contexts. By using methods such as interviews, observations, document analysis, and surveys, researchers can obtain comprehensive data and generate insights that are specific to the case. Whether exploratory, descriptive, or explanatory, case studies offer unique opportunities for understanding and discovering practical applications for theories.

• Baxter, P., & Jack, S. (2008). Qualitative Case Study Methodology: Study Design and Implementation for Novice Researchers . The Qualitative Report, 13(4), 544–559.
• Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2017). Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
• Stake, R. E. (1995). The Art of Case Study Research . SAGE Publications.
• Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods (6th ed.). SAGE Publications.
• Thomas, G. (2016). How to Do Your Case Study (2nd ed.). SAGE Publications.

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Writing A Case Study

Case Study Examples

15+ Free to Download Great Case Study Examples

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What is a Case Study? Learn to Write With Steps, Examples & More

Simple Case Study Format for Students to Follow

Understand the 7 Types of Case Study Here

Do you find writing a case study challenging? You’re not alone. Many students struggle with understanding how to write a case study that’s detailed, clear, and insightful.

But don’t worry because this blog will guide you through it. One of the best ways to learn how to write a strong case study is by looking at examples.

In this blog post, we’ll explore different case study examples from business, healthcare, and psychology. 

These examples will help you understand how to structure your case studies and apply the lessons to your writing process.

Let's begin!

• 1. Understanding Case Studies
• 2. Case Study Examples for Students in Different Subjects

Understanding Case Studies

A case study is a close look at a real person, group, event, or situation. It helps explain how things work in real life by using real examples. 

For students, case studies are useful because they help connect what you learn in class to real-world situations. They help you critically understand challenges, solutions, results, and see how theories apply to real life.

When writing a case study , it’s important to include key details like the background, the problem, what was done to fix it, and the results. This helps readers understand and learn from the situation.

What to Include in a Case Study

A case study looks closely at a specific situation or subject. It helps people understand complex issues by using real-life examples. Here are the key parts to include in a case study:

• Title: A clear title that shows what the case study is about.
• Abstract: A short summary of the case study’s purpose and main findings.
• Introduction: Background information on the subject and why it is important.
• Objectives: What you hope to achieve with the case study.
• Methodology: How you collected information or did your research.
• Findings: What you discovered from your study.
• Discussion: Your thoughts on the findings and what they mean.
• Conclusion: A summary of the main points and any suggestions.
• References: A list of sources you used in the case study.
• Appendices: Extra materials, like charts or graphs, that support your case study.

Don’t miss out on this blog on case study format if you want to better understand how to cover these areas.

Case Study Examples for Students in Different Subjects

To write a case study, you must look at the examples first. By looking at real examples, students can better understand complex ideas.

Let’s look at these different types of case studies from different areas to see how they can make learning more effective.

Business Case Study Examples

Business case studies focus on how companies solve problems, improve operations, and make decisions. These case studies often show real challenges, the decisions made by the company, and the long-term results of those actions on the product or service’s perception.

For small businesses, case studies might look at things like content marketing, social media strategies, or improving products for potential customers. They show how businesses attract customers and grow over time.

Check out these data-driven case study examples below for inspiration:

Marketing Case Study Example PDF

Case Study Example About Potential Clients PDF

Business Case Study Examples With Solutions PDF

Social Work Case Study Examples

Social work case studies focus on helping people, families, or communities who are facing problems. These case studies show how social workers offer support, create plans to help, and work to improve people’s lives.

They help students learn how social workers deal with real-life challenges.

If you’re writing a social work case study, using a template can make the process easier. You can also check out some examples below for ideas.

Case Study on Helping Homeless Families

Case Study on Supporting Children in Foster Care

Social Sciences Case Study Examples

Social sciences case studies look at different aspects of society, like human behavior, culture, and history. They show how social rules, government policies, or historical events affect people and communities. 

These case studies help students connect theories they learn in class to real-world situations.

You can also look at the examples below to get some ideas.

Case Study on Government Policy Effects

Case Study on Culture and Education

Environmental Case Study Examples

Environmental case studies focus on how humans interact with nature and the problems this causes, like pollution or climate change. These case studies show how people, governments, or companies try to fix environmental issues and protect the planet.

Check out these high-level examples created for you below for more ideas.

Case Study on River Pollution Cleanup

Case Study on Wildlife Conservation

Psychology Case Study Examples

Psychology case studies focus on understanding human behavior and mental health. These case studies often look at mental health conditions, treatment methods, and results. They help show how psychological theories apply in real life.

Check out the sample case studies below for ideas.

Psychology Case Study Examples PDF

Case Study Examples Psychology

Medical Case Study Examples

Medical case studies are detailed reports that focus on real patients and their medical conditions. They show the symptoms a patient has, the treatment they receive, and the results of that treatment. 

Medical case studies help students and healthcare professionals learn by seeing how doctors and nurses handle real-life situations.

Patient Case Study Example

Patient case studies focus on one person and their health problems. They show what symptoms the patient had, the treatments given, and how the patient improved. These case studies help students understand how doctors make decisions and how treatments work.

If you're writing a patient case study, it’s helpful to use a template to organize your work. You can also look at the sample case studies below for ideas.

Case Study on Managing Chronic Illness

Case Study Examples Medical

Case Study Examples for Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy case studies show how physical therapists help people recover from injuries or improve their movement. They explain the types of therapy used, exercises given, and how the patient improves over time.

If you're writing a physiotherapy case study, using a template can make it easier. Look at the examples below for inspiration.

Case Study on Knee Injury Recovery

Case Study on Stroke Rehabilitation

Nursing Case Study Examples

Nursing case studies focus on how nurses care for patients. They explain the patient’s condition, the nursing care provided, and the outcome. Nursing case studies help students learn how to care for patients, work with doctors, and manage emergencies.

Using a case study template can help you write your own nursing case study. Check out the examples below for guidance.

Case Study on Critical Care Nursing

Case Study Examples Nursing

Counseling and Mental Health Case Study Examples

Counseling and mental health case studies show how therapists help people with mental health problems. They explain the therapy used, how the client improved, and the overall results. These case studies help students learn how mental health care works.

If you’re writing a counseling case study, using a template can make it easier. Take a look at the examples below for ideas.

Counselling Case Study Examples PDF

Mental Health Case Study Examples PDF

There you go!

We’re sure that now you have secrets to writing a great case study at your fingertips! This blog teaches the key guidelines of various case studies with samples. So grab your pen and start crafting a winning case study right away!

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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