Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is a Case Study?

Research Topics:
The Business of Research
Content Type:
Glossary
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Case Study Definition

The collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group, frequently including the accounts of subjects themselves.

A case study is a detailed analysis of a specific situation, event or phenomenon within the realm of marketing research. Frequently, a study is a collection and presentation of detailed information about a particular participant or small group that include the accounts of subjects themselves. A study involves collecting and examining qualitative and quantitative data to gain insights into real-world scenarios and to draw conclusions. It provides information about a particular marketing strategy, campaigns, consumer behavior and market trends. What’s more, a study brings a depth of understanding that goes beyond statistical analysis, in that it can provide context of "how" and "
why" outcomes occur. They bridge theory and practice, basically a picture of the real-world challenges and opportunities that marketing professionals face. 

Who relies on case studies?

Businesses, marketing professionals, researchers and academics use case studies to understand how strategies work, as well as their successes and failures. Findings can be used to mold decision making and to create future marketing campaigns. In addition, researchers and educators use case studies to illustrate theoretical concepts and provide practical insights to students.

Why should I care about case studies?

Case studies offer real-life examples of how marketing theories and strategies perform. By studying these cases, marketing professionals and businesses gain insights into such marketing aspects as consumer behavior, market dynamics and competitive strategies.