The document discusses case studies and how to analyze them. It defines a case study as a description of an actual situation involving a decision, challenge, opportunity, problem or issue faced by a person or organization. It explains that analyzing a case study allows you to step into the position of the decision maker. It then provides descriptors to define key elements of a case study, such as the decision, participants, and instructor. It outlines the short and long cycle processes for analyzing a case study, which involves reading the case details and exhibits, defining the issue, generating alternatives, and selecting and implementing a preferred alternative.