Building Theories from Case Study Research

Abstract

This paper describes the process of inducting theory using case studies•—from specifying the research questions to reaching closure. Some features of the process, such as problem definition and construct validation, are similar to hypothesis-testing research. Others, such as within-case analysis and replication logic, are unique to the inductive, case-oriented process. Overall, the process described here is highly iterative and tightly Jinked fo data. This research approach is especially appropriate in new topic areas. The resultant theory is often novel, testable, and empirically valid. Finally, framebreaking insights, the tests of good theory (e.g., parsimony, iogical coherence), and convincing grounding in the evidence are the key criteria far evaluating this type of research.