To defend against criticisms of lack of rigor, Yin offers four tests for quality: construct validity , internal validity , external validity , and reliability . Analytic and Reporting Strategies
The book outlines a linear but iterative process for conducting research:
Defining what the "case" is (e.g., an individual, program, or organization) and establishing its boundaries. Case study research : design and methods
Establishing the standards for evaluating the results, such as identifying patterns or commonalities. Methodological Framework
Concepts derived from existing literature that guide the study's focus (optional for exploratory cases). To defend against criticisms of lack of rigor,
Typically "how" or "why" questions that explore contemporary phenomena within their real-life context.
Yin emphasizes that data analysis is often the most difficult stage and requires a clear strategy, such as pattern matching or explanation building. For the final report, he suggests several structures, including linear-analytic, comparative, chronological, and theory-building formats. 3rd Edition (2003) 5th Edition (2014) 6th Edition (2017) Primary Focus Establishing the method's rigor. Advanced concepts for rigor. Integrating applications and research. New Features Logic models for analysis. 9 new cases, 7 tutorials. 11 in-depth applications. Major Update Expanded multi-method studies. Focus on logic models/ethics. Emphasis on rival explanations. For the final report, he suggests several structures,
Researchers are encouraged to use triangulation by drawing from six sources of evidence: documentation, archival records, interviews, direct observations, participant-observation, and physical artifacts.