The Success Case Method (SCM) is a qualitative and evaluative research approach that focuses on identifying and understanding the best examples of successful outcomes in a given context. The SCM, developed by Robert O. Brinkerhoff, is a useful tool for evaluating the effectiveness of programs, interventions, or strategies in organizations and other settings. The SCM is predicated on the notion that there is substantial learning potential in studying the most successful cases or instances within a given framework.

The SCM typically involves a number of steps to effectively conduct an evaluation. These steps are as follows:

  1. Goal Identification: The first step involves clearly defining the purpose of the evaluation and the program or intervention under scrutiny. This includes establishing the expected outcomes or success criteria for the program.
  2. Success Sampling: This step involves identifying a sample of individuals or units who have been successful according to the established criteria. This often involves a brief survey or screening process to identify the most successful cases.
  3. Detailed Investigation: The identified successful cases are then studied in detail. This often involves in-depth interviews, observations, or document analysis to understand the factors contributing to the success.
  4. Documentation of Success Cases: The findings from the detailed investigation are then documented, often in the form of narrative case studies. These case studies highlight the strategies, actions, and conditions that contributed to the success.
  5. Communicating Findings: Finally, the results are communicated to relevant stakeholders. This often involves presenting the success case studies, along with any recommendations for improving the program or intervention based on the findings.

The SCM presents several advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, the SCM can provide rich, detailed insights into the factors contributing to success, which can inform future program design and implementation. It can also be motivating and engaging for stakeholders, as it highlights positive outcomes and successful strategies. Furthermore, it can be a relatively quick and cost-effective evaluation method, as it focuses on a select number of successful cases.

On the negative side, the SCM may not provide a comprehensive view of a program’s effectiveness, as it does not focus on average or unsuccessful cases. This may limit the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, the SCM relies heavily on qualitative data, which may be subject to interpretation and bias. Lastly, the identification of success cases may be challenging if clear success criteria are not established or if success varies significantly across cases.

The SCM, therefore, offers a unique approach to evaluation that can provide valuable insights into the factors driving success. However, it should be used judiciously and in combination with other evaluation methods to ensure a comprehensive understanding of a program’s effectiveness.