9. The case is too long. Submissions longer than 25 double-spaced pages including the cover
page and all tables, figures, and references are apt to result in a recommendation that they
be cut. (Journal space is at a premium in all journals: keeping a case as short as it can be
to present all material relevant to the case is recommended.)
Things to Consider Before Preparing a Case
Overview of What Belongs in a Case Study
Lowman (2001, p. 120) suggested the following principles for the development of meaningful case
studies. “Whatever the specific format of the case study, it is important that each incorporate several
features. [The case should include as] detailed, accurate, and objective as possible description of (a)
the specific case events and variables, including human ones; (b) the diagnostic interpretations made
of the data in a; . . . (c) the specific interventions made, their observed and measured effects; and (d)
plausible alternative explanation关s兴 of the results in [the] particular context of the case. The
discussion should include alternative interpretations of the data and a serious discussion of the
limitations of the case and of the methodology used in the case. As much as possible, authors need
to present their cases in a way that maximizes the ability of others to . . . metaanalyze [cases], if not
in a statistical sense, at least in a metaphorical one.”
Case Outline
We offer the following outline in preparing cases for CPJ:
1. Abstract. The abstract needs to be a succinct summary of the major findings of the case
study contextualized in its specific setting. Too often abstracts in submitted cases
introduce new material, miss the major points of the author(s)’ article, or fail to realize
the importance of the abstract for archival and data retrieval purposes;
2. Introduction and Anchoring of the Case in the Literature. The case material to be
presented should succinctly be anchored in the literature that has preceded it;
3. Information about the Consultants. Describe the consultants and consulting organiza-
tion(s) involved in the project including the demographics, education, practice setting
(e.g., independent practice, partnership, boutique, major company, “big six” firm),
specializations and practice areas, and whether the case is typical of the types of cases
and assignments undertaken by the case’s author(s).
4. Description of the Client. Characteristics of the client/client organization (size, age,
industry, organizational structure, strategic analysis including a brief description of its
strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities). Confidentiality and ethical guidelines
(e.g., American Psychological Association, 2002) should be followed. Generally, it is a
good idea for the case to be reviewed by the client or former client and/or a represen-
tative of the organization at which the consultation occurred in advance of submitting it
for publication consideration.
5. What Led Up to the Request for Consultation and Who Made It? This brief section
should include the consultant’s assessment of the organization’s status and issues that led
to the consultation request. It is generally helpful also to identify in at least a general
(disguised) way the client and/or the executives responsible for the consultation project.
6. Consulting Contract. Describe the major steps in developing the consultation relation-
ship and agreement reached with the client and provide a brief description of the actual
agreement with the client.
7. Description of the Assessment Results, the Intervention, and the Rationale. Briefly
describe the assessment results and diagnosis, the theory or research on which the
assessment and intervention was based, and the scope and goals of the project.
8. Process and Dynamics of the Consulting Project. Next, the case should succinctly
describe the process and progress of the services as they were delivered. Authors may
3CASE STUDY GUIDELINES