Case Analysis Effectiveness

Case Analysis Effectiveness

The Case Analysis tool is relevant to my current work with aerial unmanned systems.  Frequently we are asked to assist in evaluating aerial vehicles or respond to proposals based on requirements that outline specific capabilities.  It is fairly easy to get down to two or three alternative choices, but then the choices become harder without a good analysis of the remaining choices. 

All too often, the requirements in the solicitations require solutions that the client cannot afford.  When analyzing the available aerial platforms verses that they are trying to accomplish, it may require providing a recommendation that is completely different than what was anticipated. 

An example is the request for an unmanned aerial solution, which the specifications suggest it be a fixed wing aerial vehicle, but the specifications are not obtainable with current technologies. Another completely different solution, such as, an aerostat is more appropriate to meet the specification of the proposal.   The original proposal is retracted and the solicitation process is recommenced with more realistic requirements.  In some cases, it is based on the recommendation to look at a completely different solution to achieve the requirements.    

The recommendation may delay the procurement of the unmanned system. Therefore, there must be a carefully thought out capture strategy when making a bold recommendation that changes a procurement.  Many time the allotted funding is provided to the client for a specified period, and any delay in the procurement cycle may jeopardize the project. In some cases, it allows you the opportunity to provide the only available alternative, which may win you the contract. A careful analysis of the opportunity must be evaluated along with providing a solution.

To make the Case Analysis tool interactive in an academic environment, the recommendation of an alternative solution should be done by second student.  In doing so, would bring out creative solutions that allows the expansion of the academic experience that will further develop their careers.  This method provides an opportunity for dialog between the students. This becomes a exercise that replicates real world experiences in the selection of a solution to solve a particular requirement.