Rule #23. Adopt a Case Study Method

Scenario-based learning is underutilized!

You ever wonder why certain stories stick with you? I do. Like, why do I still remember how Facebook bought Instagram and drove the entire team to the new office or how PayPal wasn’t exactly legal when it first launched? It’s because I didn’t just read about these stories—I lived them through the case study method at Harvard.

So, what’s the deal with the case study method? It’s all about getting you to think and act like you’re part of it. Instead of just giving you theories or boring facts, you’re handed a real-world business scenario. 

Depending on the topic of the course you dive into the nitty-gritty details: financials, market conditions, internal drama, yes, all of it. 

But you’re not just sitting back and taking it in. You’re expected to analyze the situation, make decisions, and discuss what could happen next. You are literally stepping into the shoes of the people who actually made these calls, in a safe environment, of course.

This method isn’t about finding one “right” answer because, in business, there rarely is one. It’s about weighing options, understanding risks, and thinking through the impact of different choices. You’re not just learning; you’re practicing in a way that feels relevant and real and lessons stick.

Why does this matter at all? Because most workplace training doesn’t even come close to this level of engagement. We’re still stuck with lectures and PowerPoints that don’t prepare people for the real challenges they’ll face at work. The case study method changes that. It forces you to think critically, and prepares you for the complexities of the business world. 

If Harvard’s been using this method to train top talent for decades, it’s about time more companies started doing the same. It’s practical, it’s engaging, and it works.

How to Implement:

• Start Small: You don’t need to overhaul your entire training program to incorporate case studies. Start by introducing them in specific areas where decision-making and critical thinking are key, like leadership training or sales strategies.

• Use Mixed Media: Case studies don’t have to be just text-based. You can incorporate video, interactive elements, and even role-playing to make the scenarios more immersive and engaging.

• Facilitate Group Discussions: A big part of the learning comes from discussing the case study with others. Encourage group work and discussions, where employees can share their perspectives, challenge each other’s ideas, and collectively come to a solution. 

Group discussions are very powerful. I personally was impressed how much value came out of it during our sessions. And will continuously highly recommend it.