Cases constitute an actual business simulator, displaying critical company situations drawn from reality.

A "case" is the description of a situation faced by a manager, and it is intended as a basis for discussion of relevant topics in business management.

At IAE, cases depict a situation at the time executives need to make a decision and problems are not clearly presented and information is limited. Students have to take the role of the managers described, analyze and diagnose the situation in order to make a decision and elaborate an action plan, to be later explained and justified at the general sessions. There may be more than one possible correct answer, but the decision process must be rigorous.

Cases are studied individually first to identify the problem, analyze the facts, come up with alternative solutions and determine a recommendation according to the criteria set in each instance. Then, small teams, made up by professionals of different majors, discuss the case and there is a fluent exchange of knowledge and experiences. Finally, at general sessions, the teacher guides the group to compare alternative solutions in terms of their pros and cons, to draw theoretical frameworks and to develop the best action plans.

Technical Notes are attached to cases in order to provide the theoretical content required to focus on the tools and models surfacing during the Program.

Using the Case Method enables students to acquire decision-making skills while it fosters intense interaction among professionals sharing their past experiences.

The Case Method is also complemented by the use of videos, computer-based simulators, role playing, outdoor sessions, workshops and negotiation exercises, all of them providing constant rhythm to classes.