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A Study of Case Studies: Some Reflections and Projections on the Narrative Structuring of Management Cases

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  • Cliff Oswick

Abstract

This article explores the narrative structure of management cases. A selective sample of cases ( n = 5) which focus on the turnaround of a high profile corporation is examined. The analysis considers the notions of: thematic framing and ordering (i.e., univocality, causal chains and a ‘problem-to-solution’ flow); verisimilitude (i.e., coherence and plausibility); the use of poetic tropes (i.e., the attribution of responsibility, agency and providential significance). The common features and general characteristics revealed in both ‘conventional cases’ and ‘critical cases’ are identified and discussed. Finally, the scope for embracing and applying alternative approaches (e.g., plurivocal, fragmented and less problem-centred) is presented.

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  • Cliff Oswick, 2014. "A Study of Case Studies: Some Reflections and Projections on the Narrative Structuring of Management Cases," South Asian Journal of Business and Management Cases, , vol. 3(1), pages 7-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sajbmc:v:3:y:2014:i:1:p:7-14
    DOI: 10.1177/2277977914525293
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gabriel, Yiannis, 2000. "Storytelling in Organizations: Facts, Fictions, and Fantasies," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780198297062.
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