After early sales gains with a five-minute oil change offering, Delta Oils witnesses a slump in business. The owner decides to research the oil change consumer. The case introduces students to the design of a consumer study; specifically, the design, sequencing, formulation, administration and interpretation of a survey on consumer behaviours surrounding oil changes in passenger vehicles. A follow-up case Delta Oil Outlets (B) is available.
A survey of the oil change consumer has been completed for Delta Oil. The student must analyze the results and report conclusions and recommendations to Delta Oil management. The case presents the actual results of an extensive consumer survey. Delta Oil (B) introduces basic analytical techniques for market research: stratified and segmented sampling, analysis of frequency distributions and cross-tabulations. The importance of sampling methods and sample size can also be addressed. A Note on Reading a Crosstab Table (9A97K002) is also available. Delta Oil Outlets (A), which challenges students to design a research study for the company, should be taught, or at least reviewed, before addressing Delta Oil (B).
The Executive Director of a non-profit organization must deal with the fact that over the past few years, the organization has experienced a decline in volunteers, men who offer consistent adult male companionship to boys from father absent homes. They must tackle the challenges of:<ul><li>Recruiting and retaining volunteers in the cash-strapped 1990's.</li><li>Motivating people within the organization without the usual motivational tools (raises and threats of dismissal).</li><li>Practicing persuasive leadership techniques where they must constantly communicate, reiterate and reflect the shared values of the agency's volunteers.</li></ul>
This note provides a series of steps used in the preparation of pro-forma income statements and balance sheets, using the aging of accounts and a plug for cash requirements. A simple example is used for illustration.
A division manager for a chain of medical and research centres must deal with allegations of misappropriated funds. The chain has recently undergone an organizational restructuring, a fact which tends to muddy the issue. Case analysts address ethical and public relations considerations, in light of the fact that one of the key players has threatened legal action against the corporation.
In response to dismissal of a newly hired administrative assistant, all 10 of this company's executive assistants have vacated their posts and demanded that the plant's manager reverse the young woman's discharge. Otherwise, the 10 women have threatened to walk out in order to air their protest on a national news program.