5. Case Study Research Proposal Sample

Title: Understanding the Challenges of Corporate Social Responsibility Implementation: A Case Study of a Multinational Corporation

Introduction: This case study research proposal aims to understand the challenges of implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives within a multinational corporation. CSR has become increasingly important in the global business landscape, but companies often face significant challenges in aligning their CSR efforts with business goals and stakeholder expectations. This study will explore the specific challenges faced by a selected multinational corporation in implementing its CSR strategy.

Research Objectives:

  1. To identify the key challenges in implementing CSR initiatives within a multinational corporation.
  2. To explore the strategies used by the corporation to overcome these challenges.
  3. To assess the impact of CSR initiatives on the corporation’s reputation and stakeholder relationships.

Literature Review: The literature review will cover existing case studies and theoretical research on CSR implementation in multinational corporations. It will explore the drivers and barriers to CSR, the role of organizational culture and leadership in CSR implementation, and the impact of CSR on corporate reputation. Gaps in the literature will be identified, particularly in terms of the practical challenges of implementing CSR across different regions and cultures.

Methodology: A single-case study design will be used, focusing on a multinational corporation with a well-established CSR program. Data will be collected through interviews with key stakeholders, analysis of corporate documents (e.g., CSR reports, internal communications), and observation of CSR activities. Thematic analysis will be conducted to identify common themes and patterns related to the challenges and strategies of CSR implementation.

Expected Outcomes: The research is expected to provide an in-depth understanding of the challenges of CSR implementation within a multinational corporation. The findings will offer insights into effective strategies for overcoming these challenges and enhancing the alignment between CSR initiatives and business objectives. Additionally, the study will contribute to the broader literature on CSR by providing a practical example of CSR implementation in a complex organizational context.

Timeline: The case study will be conducted over 12 months, with the first three months dedicated to securing access to the corporation and conducting preliminary interviews, followed by six months of data collection and three months of data analysis and report writing.

Budget: The estimated budget for the case study is $25,000, covering costs related to travel, interview transcription, data analysis software, and publication fees.