MalikFProject#5

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BUSI830 Project5 1 School of Business, Liberty University Faizan Malik Explanatory Case Study Assignment By submitting this assignment, I attest this submission represents my work, and not that of another student, scholar, or internet source. I understand I am responsible for knowing and correctly utilizing referencing and bibliographical guidelines. I have not submitted this work for any other class.

BUSI830 Project5 2 Abstract To strengthen the validity of their study, researchers often implore rival explanations that could potentially account for the phenomenon being studied. These rival explanations remove concerns of bias and other factors that may impede a study and ultimately lead to more enhanced interpretation of the researcher’s findings. To effectively deliver these findings, case studies must meet certain criteria and focus on contemporary phenomena, as opposed to historical contexts seen in histography. When combined with Lean Six Sigma (LSS) tools, studies become more robust and comprehensive, allowing for a more effective message delivery.

BUSI830 Project5 3 Introduction When conducting explanatory case studies, researchers must expand the scope of their research beyond their hypothesis and consider alternative theories that may provide different interpretations. Rival explanations allow researchers to strengthen the validity of hypotheses and subsequent conclusions by providing a thorough examination of alternative perspectives and potential factors influencing the observed phenomena. When coupled with interpretations, or the researcher’s understanding of the data gathered within a study, rival explanations not only provide a more comprehensive understanding of a study’s findings but also remove concerns of bias or other factors that may influence outcomes. To effectively utilize rival explanations and/or interpretations, an explanatory case study must first meet certain criteria, such as addressing contemporary subjects rather than historical contexts often associated with historiographies, to ensure the selected format will be the most effective in conveying the intended message. These measures, alongside various Lean Six Sigma (LSS) tools, allow for more comprehensive studies and outcomes. Case Study Analysis - Rival Explanations and Interpretations Within the context of a case study, both rival explanations and interpretations play a crucial role in the research process, both individually and when utilized together. Rival explanations, as described by Lange (2022), resemble competing hypotheses, seeking to explain the same theories or evidence, whether for the same phenomenon or differing phenomena that may be related, and they hold a crucial role in inference to the best explanation (IBE), a form of non-deductive reasoning where we infer that the hypothesis offering the most compelling explanation for the evidence is the likeliest to be true (Lange, 2022). The inclusion of rival explanations allows researchers to avoid instances of false inferences or conclusions, as it forces

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BUSI830 Project5 4 them to consider all of the possible explanations for their findings and to identify any potential gaps within their evidence (Yin, 2018). Fairfield and Charman (2018) expand on the benefits of rival explanations which include an improved understanding of the phenomenon of focus, reduced bias, and improved communication within their field by compelling researchers to provide a clear and concise explanation of the different ways to explain the phenomenon (Fairfield & Charman, 2018). One potential use case of rival explanations in case studies is for pattern matching, which involves comparing real-world observations with what was theoretically expected while also considering potential challenges to accuracy, for which researchers need to demonstrate that these challenges wouldn't have produced the same results with rival explanations (Yin, 2018). On the contrary, interpretations are the researcher's subjective understanding of the phenomena of focus and their respective data, which can potentially be influenced by factors in the research framework, data collection methods or analysis techniques, or the researcher's own bias. Mezmir (2020) defines interpretations as "the researcher's understanding of the meaning of the data, based on their analysis of the data and their knowledge and experiences” and argues they are essential in case study research, as they allow researchers to make sense of the data and to develop a deeper understanding of the phenomenon they are studying (Mezmir, 2020). Although interpretations have similar benefits to rival explanations, in that they allow for a deeper understanding of the phenomena of focus and improve communication, they also allow for new insights and theories by imploring researchers to evaluate their data in new and creative methods (Akinyode & Khan, 2018). Ultimately, when employed in tandem, rival explanations and interpretations enable researchers to achieve a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the intricacies of the phenomena being studied.

BUSI830 Project5 5 Effective Explanatory Case Studies Depending on the specific research context and the nature of the phenomenon under investigation, researchers may choose to employ case studies to gain in-depth insights within a particular field, refine or develop theories with practical applications, and generate new knowledge to inform future research. Yin (2018) outlines several criteria for which case studies would be the most effective approach for researchers. First, the intent of the research should be to understand the “how” or “why” of a phenomenon, as opposed to merely describing it (Yin, 2018). With a focus on the “how” and “why” of a phenomenon, researchers seek a deeper understanding and the subsequent implications, including its causes, consequences, and context. This deeper understanding acts as a catalyst for progress within the researcher’s field of study, by allowing researchers to develop new theories or models that explain a phenomenon and to identify potential areas of improvement. Next, Yin (2018) provides that the studied phenomenon should be complex and not easily explained through other, traditional methods of research (Yin, 2018). Case studies enable researchers to investigate the contextual factors surrounding complex phenomena, facilitating an examination of the respective impacts on the phenomenon, and offering the means to study dynamic phenomena that evolve, aiding in the development of sustainable and effective long-term interventions (Paparini et al., 2018). The complexity of the studied phenomenon also allows researchers to collect in-depth data from a variety of sources, another criterion for case studies (Yin, 2018). Having multiple data sources allows researchers to identify patterns and relationships that may not be apparent from a single data source and to utilize the triangulation methodology, in which researchers collect data from multiple sources to enhance the validity of their research through cross-verification (Thomas, 2021). Finally, Yin (2018) advises that researchers be willing to invest the necessary time and resources to conduct a

BUSI830 Project5 6 thorough case study, as these are essential for developing a deep and rich understanding of the phenomenon being studied and to accommodate the iterative nature of case study research (Yin, 2018). Explanatory Case Study vs. Historiography While explanatory case studies are often used to study complex phenomena that are difficult to explain through traditional research methods, historiographies are designed to reconstruct the past by accounting for how history has been written, differentiating the various approaches that have been taken, and understanding the main themes and topics that have been previously explored (Naiper, 2020). Explanatory case studies and historiographies not only differ in their overarching purpose, but they also call for researchers to utilize differing methods for research in terms of developing research questions, data collection methods, and outputs. Explanatory case studies seek to explain the "why" and "how" of a specific phenomenon by uncovering explanatory factors, while historiographies examine how historical events, figures, or periods have been interpreted and portrayed by various historians, encompassing questions into historiographical debates, shifts in perspectives, and revisions to historical narratives. For data collection, while case studies utilize various methods such as interviews, surveys, or direct observations, historiographies rely on the analysis of existing historical texts and other documents written by historians. Decker et al. (2021) explain the various methodologies adopted by researchers in developing historiographies and categorize these methodologies into three primary approaches: analytical historiography, which scrutinizes historical texts and documents, narrative historiography, which focuses on storytelling about the past, and reflexive historiography, which investigates the intricate relationship between the historian and the historical context (Decker et al., 2021). Finally, in terms of research output or findings, an

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BUSI830 Project5 7 explanatory case study typically comprises a detailed report presenting findings related to a specific phenomenon, historiographies produce outputs of critical analysis or scholarly discussions, which landscape of historical writing over time (Houghton, 2018). Explanatory Case Study with Lean Six Sigma In an explanatory case study exploring enhancements to the telehealth business model in healthcare, researchers could utilize various Lean Sigma Six (LSS) methodologies to optimize the telehealth delivery process, reduce inefficient workflows, and enhance patient satisfaction and access to care. The study would likely focus on a single healthcare facility with multiple providers, as this would allow researchers to this would provide a more in-depth and nuanced understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities that may exist, combining both quantitative and qualitative data. After the study had been designed and research questions and objectives had been identified, researchers would look to complete value stream mapping, or a representation of the movement of materials and information that contribute value to a customer, to identify and map out the entire delivery process, from patient scheduling to appointment completion (Hallam & Contreras, 2018). Once the various processes have been mapped, researchers would look to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks that exist in telehealth delivery such as delays in appointment scheduling, redundant administrative tasks, or communication breakdowns between healthcare providers and their patients. The value stream mapping process would serve as a diagnostic tool to highlight areas where waste and inefficiencies occur, enabling researchers to develop and implement targeted process improvements. Research would then move on to data collection, including the selection of key metrics relevant to the telehealth process and baseline data such as patient satisfaction, wait times, and appointment completion rates, through multiple methods such as patient surveys, provider interviews, and medical

BUSI830 Project5 8 records reviews. Once data has been collected and analyzed, researchers would focus on performing root cause analysis, the systematic approach to pinpoint the fundamental cause of a problem or defect to address the root cause rather than merely treating the symptoms, to drive informed decision-making and facilitate targeted process improvements. (Smętkowska & Mrugalska, 2018). Finally, the case study would provide suggestions for process improvement through the implementation of LSS methodologies, offering recommendations to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and overall quality of the telehealth business model in healthcare. As with any study involving healthcare, both researchers and healthcare providers must maintain the highest levels of ethical standards to build credibility within their field and with patients respectively. The message of ethics is also one provided to us by God, as guidance for how we should act both in personal and professional settings. Micah 6:8 states, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (The Holy Bible NIV, 2011). In this scripture, we are called to be just, merciful, and humble in our relationship not only with God but our fellow man. We are decreed to live our lives based on Christian values, which Keller (2014) provides, should be maintained in the workplace as well. Keller (2014) argues that Christians should bring their faith into their workplace through acts of prayer, kindness, and compassion, as this creates a more positive and productive environment and also fosters ethical behavior (Keller, 2014). Conclusion Although researchers begin explanatory case studies with their hypothesis and subsequent interpretations, the use of rival explanations strengthens the validity of the study by removing concerns for detrimental factors such as the researcher's own bias. When utilized in conjunction with various research processes such as pattern matching, researchers can provide their audience

BUSI830 Project5 9 with a clearer understanding of the phenomena of focus. However, researchers must first ensure their explanatory case study meets the criteria to allow for the most effective manner to convey their message, including the intent of their study and how data is collected. When explanatory case studies may not be the most effective manner in which to conduct research, such as those about historical context, researchers may opt to utilize other formats such as historiography. The framework for one’s research, from the use of rival explanations and interpretations to meeting the appropriate criteria and format, can ultimately dictate the rigor and validity of the study.

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BUSI830 Project5 10 References Akinyode, B. F., & Khan, T. H. (2018). Step by step approach for qualitative data analysis. International Journal of built environment and sustainability , 5 (3). Decker, S., Hassard, J., & Rowlinson, M. (2021). Rethinking history and memory in organization studies: The case for historiographical reflexivity. Human Relations , 74 (8), 1123-1155. Fairfield, T., & Charman, A. (2019). A dialogue with the data: The Bayesian foundations of iterative research in qualitative social science. Perspectives on Politics , 17 (1), 154-167. Hallam, C. R., & Contreras, C. (2018). Lean healthcare: scale, scope and sustainability. International journal of health care quality assurance , 31 (7), 684-696. Houghton, R. (2018). World, structure and play: A framework for games as historical research outputs, tools, and processes. Práticas da História. Journal on Theory, Historiography and Uses of the Past , (7), 11-43. Keller, T. (with Alsdorf, K. L.) (2012). Every Good Endeavor. New York, NY: E.P. Dutton. ISBN: 9780525952701. Lange, M. (2022). Putting explanation back into “inference to the best explanation”. Noûs , 56 (1), 84-109. Mezmir, E. A. (2020). Qualitative data analysis: An overview of data reduction, data display, and interpretation. Research on humanities and social sciences , 10 (21), 15-27. Napier, C. J. (2020). Historiography. In The Routledge companion to accounting history (pp. 32- 53). Routledge.

BUSI830 Project5 11 Paparini, S., Green, J. M., Papoutsi, C., Murdoch, J., Petticrew, M., Greenhalgh, T., Hanckel, B., & Shaw, S. (2020). Case study research for better evaluations of complex interventions: rationale and challenges. BMC Medicine , 18 (1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-020- 01777-6 Smętkowska, M., & Mrugalska, B. (2018). Using Six Sigma DMAIC to improve the quality of the production process: a case study. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences , 238 , 590- 596. The Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/niv/index.cfm (Original work published 1973) Thomas, G. (2021). How to do your case study. How to do your case study , 1-320. Yin, R. K. (2018). Case Study Research and Applications: Design and Methods, (6 th edition). Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications, Inc. ISBN: 9781506336169.

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