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Crafting Compelling Narratives: How to Write a Business Case Study

June 13th, 2024 by JWU

Working in the business world, there is a lot that you need to know. It is not just about the technical aspects of running a business and handling finances, but marketing and beyond. One of the most versatile and useful skills you can develop as a business professional is that of being able to write a simple business case study. These can be powerful marketing tools that can help you build your brand’s reputation, increase customer loyalty, and demonstrate your brand’s unique value proposition.

So, what is a case study in business and why does it matter? We are covering all of this, as well as tips on how to write a business case study, below.

What Is a Business Case Study?

Specifically, a  business case study  refers to a publication that covers how a company or brand responded to a specific problem or situation in a successful way. For example, a case study might explain how a company’s services helped a client solve a problem or achieve a desired outcome. These case studies can then be published on business websites, blogs, and even shared on social media as a form of effective marketing.

In many ways, a business case study is a cohesive combination of brand information and customer testimonials that can help promote a company’s products/services in a positive light.

Why Are Business Case Studies Important?

Business case studies are important for businesses of all sizes. When they are well written, these publications can help showcase a brand’s unique expertise while building trust with clients. Likewise, these case studies can demonstrate the potential real-world results that clients can expect when they work with your business. This is often more persuasive than making simple claims alone.

Common Elements:

The exact elements of a business case study can vary based on the exact scenario and products/services being covered. However, most successful business case studies will include most or all these components:

• A compelling storyline
• Client testimonials or interviews
• A clear call to action
• Visuals or other presentations of data

Why Writing Business Case Studies Is Important for Your Organization

There are several reasons as to why business professionals should be able to write compelling case studies as part of their everyday jobs. Let’s dive into why writing is so crucial here:

Showcase Your Value Proposition

First, business case studies can be extremely effective when it comes to showcasing your brand’s unique value proposition. Case studies can help demonstrate how your brand has successfully addressed specific pain points with examples and tangible results.

Build Credibility

Meanwhile, business case studies can also be an excellent way to build credibility for your brand in a way that is more compelling and persuasive than more “traditional” marketing strategies. This is because with a business case study, you can use real-world examples to show potential clients first-hand what your company’s products/services can do for them.

Differentiate Yourself

Writing and publishing business case studies can also help your company set itself apart from its competitors in any space. This is because a professionally written business case study will showcase the real value of your brand, proving that you are not just another company making promises. Instead, a case study provides real-world examples and applications that demonstrate your brand’s history of success.

Multiple Use Cases

When it comes to marketing tools, a business case study is also one of the most versatile options out there. Even once a business case study is written and published, it can be repurposed for any number of applications and content types. From a single case study, for example, you might be able to reuse the content for your company’s website, social media page, sales presentations, and much more.

Steps for Writing an Effective Business Case Study

Now that you have a better understanding of what a business case study entails and why these are such crucial tools for your business, you may be wondering where to start when it comes to writing one. Writing effective business case studies is something that will take some time and practice on your part. Still, there are some tips and best practices you can follow to write better case studies today.

Client Selection

First, understand the importance of selecting the right client to highlight for your case study. You will want to make sure that you choose a case with a clear problem, a compelling solution you offered, and quantifiable results. From there, you will need to reach out to the client personally and make sure they are willing to participate in any interviews or write a testimonial as needed.

Get Client Buy-In

Of course, it is not enough to get a client to agree to participate. Ideally, you will want a client enthusiastic about being part of the case study. This will ensure that you get the best content possible when it comes to quotes, data approval, and the like. Not sure where to begin with client buy-in? Refer to some of your happiest clients, including those who have left your company positive reviews online, and go from there.

The Storytelling Approach

Another critical component of an effective business study is storytelling. With great storytelling, your finished case study will be more of a narrative and not just a list of facts. As you craft the storyline for your narrative, try to include the following components:

• The Challenge – What pain point did the client face?
• The Solution – How did your company’s product or service address it? This section should be as specific and in-depth as possible.
• The Results – What was the outcome of your company working with the client? This section should contain quantifiable metrics and the impact your involvement had on the client’s business.
• Testimonials – Being able to incorporate direct client quotes can add a lot of authenticity to your case study.

Keep It Focused

When writing a business case study, it is also essential to keep your document as focused as possible. At the same time, be careful not to overpromise or include absolutes that could mislead potential clients.

Visual Appeal

A business case study is not compelling if nobody is reading it. This is why it is key to break up larger blocks of text with plenty of eye-catching visuals. This adds visual interest and is more likely to keep readers engaged. Whenever possible, be sure to incorporate relevant images, infographics, and other visuals to break up chunks of text.

Have a Strong Call to Action

Finally, do not forget the clear call to action. Do not assume that readers will be able to read your mind and take the next step on their own. Instead, clearly guide readers on what you want them to do after reading your case study, whether it is reaching out to you, requesting a quote, or signing up for an email list.

Beyond the Basics: Tips for Excellence

In addition to the above best practices for crafting a compelling business case study, there are a few additional tips you can follow to take your writing to the next level.

Tailor to Your Target Audience

Whenever possible, try to write in a way that targets the most specific audience in your case study. Of course, this requires you to have a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what their specific pain points are. From there, you can speak their language and address their most pressing concerns to yield results.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Business case studies can also be an excellent opportunity to improve your company’s  SEO . As you write your case study, try to naturally incorporate target keywords as much as possible. This way, when it comes time to publish your case study on your website or blog, you will also have the potential to improve your search engine rankings and drive more organic traffic to your site.

Promote Your Case Studies

Finally, understand that even once your case study is published, your work is not done. Take time to promote and share your case studies as much as possible, even going as far as to repurpose them into different content mediums from time to time. By including business case studies in your toolkit and sharing them actively, you can get as much mileage as possible out of them.

Sharpen Your Business Acumen at JWU

Now you know what is a case study in business. So, when carefully crafted and thoughtfully executed, a business case study can work wonders when it comes to increasing customer loyalty and building a positive reputation for your brand among stakeholders and potential clients. Of course, writing a business case study can be easier said than done. This is why it is so important to gain practice in business writing.

A formal education in business can help you gain the practical skills you need to write compelling cast studies and take your career to the next level. At Johnson & Wales University, we’re proud to offer both an  online bachelor’s in Business Administration  and an  online MBA program  to help you take your education in the right direction. For more information about completing your degree online, complete the  Request Info form , call 855-JWU-1881 , or email  [email protected] .

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Business school teaching case study: executive pay and shareholder democracy

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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

This is the latest in an FT series of mini case studies on business dilemmas, for exploration in the classroom and beyond. Read the argument and then consider the questions raised in the box below

Across the western world, big pay rises for chief executives have triggered shareholder dissent.

In May, aerospace group Boeing’s outgoing chief executive David Calhoun was awarded a pay rise of 45 per cent to $32.8mn despite shareholder opposition, following a series of recent incidents and accidents .

In March, the board of pharma giant AstraZeneca proposed to pay chief executive Pascal Soriot £18.7mn. Two proxy advisers called the package “ excessive ”, but one major shareholder argued Soriot was “ massively underpaid ” and the package was approved. Also in March, a proposed increase to the fixed salary part of Banco Santander executive chair Ana Bótin’s package drew fire from adviser ISS.

These debates about executive pay, on both sides of the Atlantic, raise questions about the checks and balances on remuneration.

ISS research found that chief executive officers’ pay went up by 9 per cent in the US in the first part of 2024, even when company performance went down. And, in response to a widening pay gap between US CEOs and their European counterparts, many FTSE 100 companies have also proposed significant pay rises this year.

To retain senior executives, the chair of UK-based medical devices maker Smith & Nephew argued it was necessary to raise pay for US executives working at “Brilo” companies: “ British in listing only ”. The head of the London Stock Exchange Group even called on investors to support higher executive pay , to prevent UK-based companies that generate only a “ fraction of their revenue in the UK ” relocating to the US.

Research on the effects of CEO pay on performance is extensive but many questions remain. Some work suggests that long-term stock options most effectively align incentives between shareholders and executives, and that large differences between senior and junior employees may be associated with higher long-term profitability. Other studies warn that high pay and large differentials may undermine the extrinsic motivation of top executives and hurt employee morale.

Executive pay is subject to a company’s governance. In line with the OECD’s principles of corporate governance , the board of directors establishes a remuneration committee, which proposes the components and level of the CEO’s and executive team’s remuneration. Ultimately, shareholders vote on this proposal at the company’s annual general meeting.

Occasionally, a board of directors is criticised for not having done its work properly. In January, the Delaware Court of Chancery turned down a $55.8bn pay deal proposed by the Tesla board for Elon Musk. The judge said the board behaved “like supine servants of an overweening master” and the chair’s objectivity had been compromised by “ life-changing ” sums of money she received when selling Tesla shares worth $280mn in 2021 and 2022. Musk replied that Tesla should move its headquarters from Delaware to Texas.

In theory, when the board fails, shareholder democracy should kick in. But it is rare for an AGM to vote down a remuneration package. One exception was in May 2023, when Unilever shareholders rejected a base salary increase for Hein Schumacher, the incoming CEO.

Sometimes, a large minority will vote against a pay proposal, as happened with the €36.5mn package put forward for carmaker Stellantis’ CEO, Carlos Tavares , in April. However, while such signs of dissent may be embarrassing, they rarely change the outcome.

There are concerns, therefore, that shareholder democracy is not functioning properly.

One explanation for this is that an increasing percentage of shares is owned by passive investors such as BlackRock, Vanguard and State Street. They act on behalf of other financial actors, such as pension funds, but rarely voice opinions on CEO pay. In 2020, BlackRock, the world’s largest passive investor, announced that, by the year-end, “all active portfolios and advisory strategies will be fully ESG integrated” — raising hopes among activists that executive pay would be linked to environment, social and governance standards. But the recent anti-ESG backlash has left some boards uncertain if, and how, to link remuneration to sustainability goals .

A second explanation, as at AstraZeneca and Banco Santander, is that proxy advisers play a growing role. Many institutional investors delegate their voting rights to these specialists. The two largest of them — ISS and Glass Lewis — control most of the proxy advisory market and state opinions on a growing variety of issues . As a result, board members increasingly complain about the influence on pay that these advisers have.

To many critics, then, shareholder democracy is failing in arbitrating on fair executive pay.

Questions for discussion

In your view, has CEO pay become excessive?

Should European CEO pay follow the levels set by US companies?

How credible is the risk that European companies will move their head office to another state or country? How damaging would this be to the original state or country?

How do you evaluate the growing role of passive investors in a corporate governance context?

Have proxy advisers become too powerful?

Should executive pay be based more on ESG criteria?

In your opinion, is shareholder democracy failing us when it comes to executive pay? Why (not)? If so, what should be done to improve it?

Should executive pay be capped? What would be the benefits? What would be the cost?

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Systems leadership case study: workplanning using systems thinking.

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Thomas Lim is the Vice-Dean of Centre for Systems Leadership at SIM Academy. He is an AI+Web3 practitioner & author of Think.Coach.Thrive!

Workplanning usually involves a confluence of top-down and bottom-up approaches in many organizations. Some broad annual guidance is given by the CEO, with Finance providing a budget forecast based on historical data and the strategic imperatives for the new fiscal year. The line divisions then prepare and present a list of initiatives that purportedly contribute to these imperatives and justify their budget-ask.

This generally works in stable environments where the workplanning objectives are incremental as part of a longer five-year duration, but it may be inadequate in managing transformation efforts with the need for new systemic structures due to the merging or dissolving of functional areas within the organization.

Systems thinking provides a holistic approach to understanding and managing complex systems from the current reality to a desired outcome, making it an ideal tool for recasting workplans to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

In the case of Client X, they aimed to leverage systems leadership practices to transform internally and propagate these practices first across its internal divisions, with the goal of taking it to the ecosystem at large. This article outlines a high-level approach to recasting the workplan using systems thinking tools, which has helped Client X align its initiatives, identify gaps and overlaps and achieve strategic objectives.

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Heat wave threatens more than 100 million with dangerously high temperatures this week here s where, how the market for klay thompson could be all over the place, what is systems thinking.

Systems thinking is an approach to problem-solving that views "problems" as parts of a unified whole. It involves understanding how different parts of a system interact and influence each other within the system. Unlike traditional linear thinking, systems thinking considers the broader context and the interconnections within the system and provides a systems map wherein these interactions are perceived as system-to-system, subsystem-to-subsystem or component-to-component.

In the case of Client X, adopting systems thinking means moving away from siloed operations and toward a more integrated and cohesive approach whereby a division’s work is mapped against another for synergistic outcomes. This can help the organization address complex challenges, improve decision-making and foster innovation by removing duplication and identifying implementation gaps.

Recasting The Workplan

The workplan recasting effort begins with "taking apart" the current work streams, not along the divisions’ lines of work but from an overall organizational lens. The leaders participating in this exercise have already been trained in the fundamentals of systems thinking tools. The three-day effort is about applying the systems concepts to model Client X’s journey from its current reality to its desired outcome through its articulated theory of success. The three-day session revolves around these workpieces both at the organizational level and at each strategic level:

1. Align And Select Tools/Models: Select the appropriate systems models and frameworks to guide the recasting process.

2. Apply Systems Thinking Practices: Rework existing work streams of the workplan as layers of interaction across nested hierarchies for each strategy.

3. Identify Interconnectedness: Understand how various initiatives are interconnected and the causal loops that would guide the process.

4. Identify Gaps And Overlaps: Detect any gaps and overlaps in the initiatives to optimize efforts and budgetary choices.

The specific steps that the team undertook during the three-day process included the following.

Step 1: Articulate Vision And Current Reality

Begin by clearly defining the vision and the current reality of the organization. This involves understanding the structural gap between where Client X is and where it wants to be. This step helps in identifying the key challenges and opportunities.

Step 2: Recast Workplan As A Nested Hierarchy Of Choices

Recast the workplan as a nested hierarchy of choices to ensure that decisions at every level are aligned and relevant. This helps in clarifying the strategic intent and who is responsible for what and aids in surfacing gaps and duplications, enabling better resource allocation and prioritization.

Step 3: Cluster Use Cases, And Prioritize Challenge Statements

Cluster the use cases, and prioritize the top three challenge statements that need to be addressed. This focuses the efforts on the most critical issues and ensures that resources are used effectively.

Step 4: Work On Chosen Challenge Statements

The selected challenge statements are put through using the levels of perspective "walk-up" framework to surface and test mental models for diagnosis. This helps in understanding the underlying assumptions and beliefs that drive current behaviors and outcomes.

Step 5: Create A Theory Of Success

Develop a theory of success that identifies the key levers at higher leverage for achieving the desired outcomes from key success factors. This provides a clear road map for action and helps in aligning efforts across the organization.

Step 6: Co-Create A Walk-Down Of The Levels Of Perspective

Collaborate with stakeholders to create a walk-down of the levels of perspective. This step aligns the challenge statement and diagnosis with a related growth strategy, ensuring that all efforts are coherent and strategic.

By integrating systems thinking into the recasting of its workplan, Client X was able to achieve a more cohesive, efficient and effective approach to its initiatives. The workplan was still central in execution, but it is now reinforced and streamlined for internal alignment in a way that was not possible before overlaying the systems thinking perspectives.

This approach can be extrapolated to enable other organizations to address complex challenges, optimize resource allocation and drive strategic outcomes. A coaching reinforcement can additionally be put in place to ensure that these practices are deeply embedded within the organization, leading to sustained transformation and growth.

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What Is a Derivative Contract Clause?

A derivative contract clause is a provision in a financial agreement that outlines the terms and conditions governing the use of derivatives. This clause serves as a risk management tool, enabling parties to mitigate potential losses or gains associated with fluctuations in the underlying asset's value. By establishing a clear understanding between parties, the clause helps manage risks and liabilities, such as market, credit, and operational risks. Crafting a well-defined derivative contract clause is vital in facilitating compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating seamless contractual relationships. Exploring the intricacies of derivative contract clauses can provide valuable insights into effective risk management strategies, thereby supporting thorough risk management practices.

Table of Contents

Definition and Purpose

A derivative contract clause is a provision in a financial agreement that outlines the terms and conditions governing the use of derivatives, which are financial instruments that derive their value from an underlying asset, commodity, or security. The primary purpose of this clause is to establish a clear understanding between parties regarding the use of derivatives, ensuring that all contractual obligations are fulfilled.

In essence, the derivative contract clause serves as a risk management tool, enabling parties to mitigate potential losses or gains associated with fluctuations in the underlying asset's value. Effective contract interpretation is crucial in this context, as it enables parties to accurately determine their rights and obligations under the agreement. Furthermore, the clause must comply with relevant regulatory requirements, ensuring that the use of derivatives adheres to applicable laws and regulations. By incorporating a well-crafted derivative contract clause, parties can ensure that their financial agreements are comprehensive, enforceable, and compliant with regulatory standards. This provision plays a vital role in facilitating efficient risk management and promoting a stable financial environment.

How Derivative Clauses Work

Derivative clauses operate by stipulating the terms and conditions under which parties can employ derivatives to manage risk, specifying the types of derivatives permissible, the underlying assets, and the methods for valuing and settling these financial instruments. This contractual nuance is vital in establishing a clear understanding of the risks and responsibilities associated with derivative transactions. Within a derivative contract clause, parties outline the acceptable methods for valuing and settling derivatives, verifying that both parties are aware of their obligations and potential liabilities. The regulatory framework governing derivatives also plays a significant function in shaping the terms of these clauses. By specifying the types of derivatives permissible, parties can comply with applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, the clause may outline the procedures for dispute resolution, further solidifying the contractual agreement. By carefully crafting a derivative clause, parties can effectively manage risk and protect their financial interests.

Assigning Rights and Obligations

When assigning rights and obligations in a derivative contract, it is vital to understand the nuances of transferring contractual duties, novating party obligations, and substituting original parties. These concepts are pivotal in facilitating a seamless transfer of rights and responsibilities, minimizing potential disputes and liabilities. By examining these key aspects, parties can effectively manage the assignment of rights and obligations, safeguarding the integrity of the derivative contract.

Transferring Contractual Duties

By novating or assigning a derivative contract, the original parties can transfer their contractual duties, including rights and obligations, to new entities, thereby altering the contractual landscape. This transfer of duties marks a significant contractual shift, as the responsibilities and liabilities associated with the derivative contract are handed over to the new entities. This duty handover can occur through various means, including novation agreements, assignment deeds, or other contractual arrangements.

The contractual shift resulting from the transfer of duties can have far-reaching implications for all parties involved. The original parties may be released from their obligations, while the new entities assume the responsibilities and liabilities associated with the derivative contract. The transfer of duties can also impact the contractual relationships between parties, potentially altering the dynamics of the agreement.

The precise terms of the duty handover will depend on the specific circumstances of the transfer and the agreements in place. However, in all cases, the transfer of duties requires careful consideration and clear documentation to facilitate a seamless contractual shift.

Novating Party Obligations

In a novation, the party obligations associated with the derivative contract are reassigned, allowing the original parties to relinquish their rights and obligations, and the new entities to assume them. This contractual shift enables a seamless transfer of obligations, maintaining that the derivative contract remains enforceable and effective. The novation process respects party autonomy, as it allows the parties involved to negotiate and agree on the terms of the transfer. This autonomy is vital in derivative contracts, where the parties' interests and obligations are often complex and nuanced.

The novation process involves a tripartite agreement between the original parties and the new entity, ensuring that all parties are aware of and consent to the transfer of obligations. This agreement is a pivotal aspect of novating party obligations, as it provides legal certainty and clarity on the rights and obligations of each party involved. By novating party obligations, derivative contracts can be efficiently and effectively transferred, allowing the parties to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining the integrity of the contractual relationship.

Substituting Original Parties

Substituting original parties in a derivative contract involves assigning rights and obligations to a new entity, thereby effectively replacing one or both of the original parties. This process is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the contract, as it ensures that the contractual obligations are transferred to a capable and willing entity.

In a derivative contract, substituting original parties can be a complex process, as it requires careful consideration of party interests and potential contractual loopholes. However, when done correctly, it can provide a seamless transition, minimizing disruptions to the contractual obligations.

Some key aspects to consider when substituting original parties include:

• Ensuring the new entity has the necessary capacity and resources to fulfill the contractual obligations.
• Obtaining the necessary consents and approvals from all relevant parties.
• Updating the contract to reflect the changes, and ensuring all parties are aware of their new roles and responsibilities.
• Conducting thorough due diligence to identify and mitigate any potential risks associated with the substitution.

Risks and Liabilities Involved

Embedded within derivative contracts are substantial risks and liabilities that can have devastating consequences for parties involved, including market risk, credit risk, and operational risk. These risks can lead to significant financial losses, reputational damage, and even bankruptcy. To mitigate these risks, parties must implement adequate regulatory oversight, verifying compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This includes maintaining accurate records, adhering to reporting requirements, and submitting to regular audits. Additionally, insurance coverage can provide financial protection against unforeseen events, such as natural disasters or market fluctuations. However, insurance premiums can add significant costs to the contract, and parties must carefully weigh the benefits against the expenses. In addition, parties must also consider the potential risks associated with counterparty default, where one party fails to fulfill their obligations, leading to significant losses for the other party. Effective risk management strategies, including diversification and hedging, can help minimize these risks and guarantee the successful execution of the derivative contract.

Impact on Contractual Relationships

Derivative contracts inherently alter the dynamics of contractual relationships, as the added layer of complexity and uncertainty necessitates a deeper level of trust, communication, and cooperation between parties. This shift in dynamics can have a profound impact on the overall contractual cohesion, as parties must navigate the intricate web of derivative contracts to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement.

The incorporation of derivative contracts can lead to a relationship shift, where parties must adapt to new functions and responsibilities. This, in turn, can influence the tone and tenor of contractual negotiations, as parties seek to establish a sense of trust and cooperation.

Some key implications of derivative contracts on contractual relationships include:

• Increased Interdependence : Derivative contracts create a complex web of dependencies, where parties rely on each other to fulfill obligations.
• Enhanced Communication : Effective dialogue becomes vital to navigate the complexities of derivative contracts.
• Adaptability and Flexibility : Parties must be willing to adapt to changing circumstances and uncertainties.
• Redefining Functions and Responsibilities : The incorporation of derivative contracts can lead to a reevaluation of functions and responsibilities among contracting parties.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

This section examines real-world applications of derivative contract clauses through case studies, highlighting their practical significance in managing financial risks. We will explore how energy companies mitigate price volatility, agricultural businesses employ futures contracts to hedge against crop failures, and multinational corporations employ currency derivatives to mitigate exchange rate risks. These examples illustrate the tangible benefits of incorporating derivative contract clauses into contractual agreements.

Energy Price Volatility

What factors contribute to the unpredictable fluctuations in energy prices that have significant implications for businesses and investors alike? Energy price volatility is a critical concern in today's market, and understanding its underlying causes is vital for making informed investment decisions.

Several key factors contribute to energy price volatility:

• Supply and Demand Imbalances : Disruptions in global supply chains, changes in weather patterns, and shifts in global demand can lead to significant price fluctuations.
• Market Trends : Shifts in global market trends, such as changes in fuel demand or the adoption of renewable energy sources, can impact energy prices.
• Regulatory Changes : Changes in government regulations, taxes, or subsidies can influence energy prices and create uncertainty for investors.
• Geopolitical Events : Political instability, conflicts, or sanctions can disrupt global energy supply chains, leading to price volatility.

Understanding these factors is vital for businesses and investors seeking to mitigate the risks associated with energy price volatility. By recognizing the complexities of the energy market, investors can make more informed decisions and develop effective risk management strategies.

Agricultural Futures Hedge

In the realm of agricultural commodities, hedging with futures contracts has proven to be a vital risk management strategy for farmers, processors, and traders seeking to mitigate the impact of price volatility. By locking in prices through futures contracts, market participants can reduce their exposure to adverse price movements and ensure a stable revenue stream.

Agricultural futures hedges can also complement farm insurance programs, providing an additional layer of protection against revenue shortfalls. Furthermore, effective hedging strategies can strengthen supply chain resilience by mitigating the impact of price shocks on raw material costs. By integrating futures hedging into their risk management frameworks, agricultural market participants can better navigate price volatility and achieve greater business stability.

Currency Risk Management

Beyond the sphere of agricultural commodities, multinational corporations and financial institutions face a distinct set of risks emanating from fluctuating exchange rates, underscoring the importance of effective currency risk management. Market fluctuations and volatile exchange rates can substantially impact a company's bottom line, making it crucial to implement robust risk management strategies.

Effective currency risk management involves identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks associated with exchange rate fluctuations. This can be achieved through various hedging strategies, including forward contracts, options, and swaps. By employing these instruments, companies can lock in favorable exchange rates, reducing the uncertainty and volatility associated with international trade and investment.

Some notable examples of currency risk management in action include:

• Airbus SE : The European aerospace corporation uses currency hedging strategies to mitigate the risks associated with importing components from international suppliers.
• McDonald's Corporation : The fast-food giant employs currency swaps to manage its exposure to exchange rate fluctuations in international markets.
• Siemens AG : The German conglomerate uses forward contracts to hedge against currency risks in its global supply chain.
• Caterpillar Inc. : The heavy equipment manufacturer employs options to manage its exposure to exchange rate volatility in international trade.

Best Practices for Inclusion

To provide effective incorporation of derivative contract clauses, parties should carefully consider the following recommended practices for inclusion.

Firstly, it is vital to incorporate diversity training for all stakeholders involved in the contract negotiation process. This training should prioritize promoting awareness and understanding of the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of the parties involved. By doing so, parties can verify that the derivative contract clause is free from biases and reflects the interests of all stakeholders.

Furthermore, the use of inclusive language is vital in derivative contract clauses. Parties should avoid using language that may be discriminatory or exclusionary, and instead, opt for language that is neutral and respectful of all stakeholders. This includes avoiding gender-specific pronouns, racial slurs, and other discriminatory terms. By adopting inclusive language, parties can verify that the derivative contract clause is fair, transparent, and representative of all stakeholders' interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can derivative contracts be used for tax avoidance purposes?.

Derivative contracts can be exploited for tax avoidance purposes, creating a tax shelter by exploiting financial loopholes, allowing companies to minimize tax liabilities, but regulators scrutinize such activities to prevent abusive practices.

How Do Derivative Clauses Affect Contract Termination Procedures?

In contract termination procedures, derivative clauses can complicate matters by introducing additional parties and obligations, potentially leading to contract disputes. A termination notice must carefully consider these clauses to avoid disputes and facilitate a smooth termination process.

Are Derivative Contracts Subject to Regulatory Body Oversight?

Derivative contracts are indeed subject to regulatory body oversight, with oversight bodies such as the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) exercising regulatory scrutiny over these complex financial instruments.

Can Derivative Clauses Be Used in International Business Agreements?

In international business agreements, derivative clauses can be used, but careful consideration is required to navigate cross-border implications and cultural differences, promoting contractual coherence and minimizing potential disputes.

Do Derivative Contracts Require Special Insurance Coverage?

When entering into derivative contracts, risk assessment is vital to determine adequate insurance coverage. Customized coverage options, such as financial institution bonds or professional liability insurance, may be necessary to mitigate potential risks and losses.

Holistic Pedagogical Support to Address Postgraduate Students’ Challenges in Academic Publishing: The Case of a Business School in Indonesia

• Regular Article
• Published: 17 June 2024

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• Franklin G. Talaue   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2710-4611 1 &
• Roozbeh Babolian Hendijani 2  

The research literature is rife with studies that explicate how novice academic writers face fears and experience anxieties when writing in English as a Second Language (ESL) contexts. However, many studies have failed to put forward a holistic approach to address the issue. This study fills in this gap by reporting how integrating language and content instruction and providing out-of-classroom assistance for students at a master’s level in an Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)-accredited business school can help them become more confident academic writers and accomplish their publishing goals. This research employed a qualitative research approach through which ten students were interviewed in-depth. The findings of the study reveal that students do not only experience language and content related fears and challenges, but also challenges that are existential in nature. This implies that finding meaning and purpose in their research endeavors which aligns with their professional careers is important. The study makes a case for a holistic pedagogical support for students within a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach, while putting in place a definitive mentoring system outside of class sessions. Future research may evaluate the effectiveness of such a support program for academic publishing and explore ways to adequately address the need for a research agenda that is meaningful for students’ professional and academic careers.

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Talaue, F.G., Hendijani, R.B. Holistic Pedagogical Support to Address Postgraduate Students’ Challenges in Academic Publishing: The Case of a Business School in Indonesia. Asia-Pacific Edu Res (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-024-00878-7

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s40299-024-00878-7

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