Identification of ambiguity in the case study research typology: what is a unit of analysis?

Abstract

Purpose -At the moment central concepts relating to the case study strategy are insufficiently understood. This is unfortunate in that the truth value of results inferred from case studies may be questioned. Given the fact that case studies are widely employed in many fields the identified ambiguities represent an imperative dilemma of great consequences to the research community in general. Hence, the objectives are to identify ambiguities, explore further consequences of ambiguities and to propose a rival understanding that will remedy the present inconsistencies. Design/methodology/approach -An analysis of literature was undertaken. Based on a critical assessment of existing theoretical concepts, modifications and novel conceptual ideas are proposed. The proposed framework is, moreover, thoroughly exemplified by a business-to-business research example, thereby enhancing applicability when future case studies are undertaken. Findings -The outcome was a string of generic case study characteristics, an elaboration of ambiguity and consequences of the identified ambiguity, a modification of Yins' case study design typology, and finally an integrative theoretical framework that illustrates an alternative conception of the unit of analysis and the case. Accepting the criticisms and ideas presented makes it easier to identify and demarcate units of analysis that are comparable with the original analyzed unit of analysis. This will enhance the probability of authenticity and fittingness of inferred case results. Originality/value -The contributions of this paper will facilitate a higher level of awareness about the assumptions of the paradigmatic posture researchers hold. This will cause researchers to craft more logical coherent designs and conduct better case studies across fields of theories. Moreover, they will to a higher extent be able to understand rival points of view, enabling them to construct more nuanced and astute discussions and novel insights.

OSeMOSYS-PuLP: A Stochastic Modeling Framework for Long-Term Energy Systems Modeling

“…First of all, a measured value (and as used in an input dataset) and true value (as occuring in the real-world) can potentially differ due to imprecision of measurements or inaccuracy of measurement devices [40]. Moreover, measurements and values need to be explicitly described to prevent any form of ambiguity concerning use and interpretation [41]. Eventually, ambiguity in data or wordings can lead to different interpretations among different people based on their own knowledge background.…”

Making leadership cases impactful: a comparison of teaching methods

“…It appears that some case writers classify by the research method (Merriam 1988;Stake, 1995), others by the case source material (Lijphart, 1971;Yin, 2009;Thomas, 2001), others by how they fit with other cases in a series (De Vaus, 2001;Seawright & Gerring, 2008), others by the type of solution required (Heath, 2006;Ellet, 2007) and others by a combination of approaches (Lijphart, 1971). Grünbaum (2007) thoughtfully compared the field research case typologies of Yin (2003), Merriam (1988, Stake (1995), and Eisenhardt (1989), and determined that Merriam, Stake and Eisenhardt were based in a relativistic ontology, whereas Yin is more of an empiricist, thus creating an underlying difference in their approaches to typology.…”

Sistemas certificáveis de gestão ambiental e da qualidade: práticas para integração em empresas do setor moveleiro

“…Assim, torna-se importante compreender e identificar os fatores contextuais que cercam a unidade de análise. Estudos de caso podem ser descritivos, exploratórios ou explicativos, isto é, podem gerar teoria ou contribuir para sua modificação (GRÜNBAUM, 2007). Neste artigo, pretende-se contribuir com a construção da teoria a partir da sugestão de práticas para integração de sistemas de gestão ambiental e da qualidade.…”

“…Na metodologia de estudo de caso, o objeto de estudo está sempre relacionado com pessoas, mais especificamente com a interpretação da percepção dos atores sociais de um determinado fenômeno ou os significados que estes atribuem a ele (GRÜNBAUM, 2007). Yin (2003) salienta que é necessário considerar os seguintes princípios fundamentais para o trabalho de coleta de dados em estudos de caso: a) utilização de duas ou mais fontes de dados que convirjam em relação ao mesmo conjunto de fatos ou descobertas; b) utilização de banco de dados para os casos, isto é, uma reunião formal de evidências, e c) encadeamento de evidências, ou seja, ligações explícitas entre as questões feitas, os dados coletados e as conclusões a que se chegaram.…”