the other name for case study

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noun as in case history

Strongest match

• medical history

Weak matches

• medical record
• psychiatric history

Example Sentences

In a case study from Metric Theory, Target Impression Share bidding, the total cost per click increased with both mobile and desktop devices.

It would also become the subject of a fair number of business school case studies.

Not just blog posts, you can also share other resources like case studies, podcast episodes, and webinars via Instagram Stories.

They become the architecture for a case study of Flint, expressed in a more personal and poetic way than a straightforward investigation could.

The Creek Fire was a case study in the challenge facing today’s fire analysts, who are trying to predict the movements of fires that are far more severe than those seen just a decade ago.

A case study would be your Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke.

A good case study for the minority superhero problem is Luke Cage.

He was asked to review a case study out of Lebanon that had cited his work.

Instead, now we have a political science case-study proving how political fortunes can shift and change at warp speed.

One interesting case study is Sir Arthur Evans, the original excavator and “restorer” of the Minoan palace of Knossos on Crete.

As this is a case study, it should be said that my first mistake was in discrediting my early religious experience.

The author of a recent case study of democracy in a frontier county commented on the need for this kind of investigation.

How could a case study of Virginia during this period illustrate these developments?

Related Words

Words related to case study are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word case study . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in record of what happened

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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  Vocabulary      

What is another word for case study ?

Synonyms for case study case study, this thesaurus page includes all potential synonyms, words with the same meaning and similar terms for the word case study ., princeton's wordnet.

• case study noun

a careful study of some social unit (as a corporation or division within a corporation) that attempts to determine what factors led to its success or failure

a detailed analysis of a person or group from a social or psychological or medical point of view

Matched Categories

• Corporation

Concise Medical Dictionary, by Joseph C Segen, MD Rate these synonyms: 2.2 / 5 votes

Synonyms: Epidemiology Anecdotal report, anecdote, single case report

How to pronounce case study?

How to say case study in sign language, how to use case study in a sentence.

Houston Astros :

I think I’m kind of a case study on this one.

Josh Holmes :

For those asking, this is my response to West Virginia Roy Moore :' This clown is a walking, talking case study for the limitation of a prison's ability to rehabilitate,'.

Sam Goodman :

The Hong Kong BNO scheme is an interesting case study of what can happen if there is political will, there are 12 welcome centers across the country and a really good support package which costs relatively little, including help with English language. And most importantly they just didn’t politicize it. All this has meant that 144,000 Hong Kongers have come here with little to no fuss, integrated quickly and there have been minimal issues.

Alba Pasini :

This case study is really important, since it testifies that a medical approach to maternal morbidity actually existed during the Lombard period, despite the rejection of the scientific progress which denoted all the Early Middle Age, also, it shows two rare findings, since post-mortem fetal extrusion is a quite rare phenomenon( especially in archaeological specimens), while only a few examples of trepanation are known for the European Early Middle Age.

Tesoro Corp :

We agree on the critical importance of continually learning from incidents and improving the safety of our operations, and inaccuracies in the case study do not detract from our resolve to learn from these incidents.

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Methodology

• What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods

Published on May 8, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 20, 2023.

A case study is a detailed study of a specific subject, such as a person, group, place, event, organization, or phenomenon. Case studies are commonly used in social, educational, clinical, and business research.

A case study research design usually involves qualitative methods , but quantitative methods are sometimes also used. Case studies are good for describing , comparing, evaluating and understanding different aspects of a research problem .

Table of contents

When to do a case study, step 1: select a case, step 2: build a theoretical framework, step 3: collect your data, step 4: describe and analyze the case, other interesting articles.

A case study is an appropriate research design when you want to gain concrete, contextual, in-depth knowledge about a specific real-world subject. It allows you to explore the key characteristics, meanings, and implications of the case.

Case studies are often a good choice in a thesis or dissertation . They keep your project focused and manageable when you don’t have the time or resources to do large-scale research.

You might use just one complex case study where you explore a single subject in depth, or conduct multiple case studies to compare and illuminate different aspects of your research problem.

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Once you have developed your problem statement and research questions , you should be ready to choose the specific case that you want to focus on. A good case study should have the potential to:

• Provide new or unexpected insights into the subject
• Challenge or complicate existing assumptions and theories
• Propose practical courses of action to resolve a problem
• Open up new directions for future research

TipIf your research is more practical in nature and aims to simultaneously investigate an issue as you solve it, consider conducting action research instead.

Unlike quantitative or experimental research , a strong case study does not require a random or representative sample. In fact, case studies often deliberately focus on unusual, neglected, or outlying cases which may shed new light on the research problem.

Example of an outlying case studyIn the 1960s the town of Roseto, Pennsylvania was discovered to have extremely low rates of heart disease compared to the US average. It became an important case study for understanding previously neglected causes of heart disease.

However, you can also choose a more common or representative case to exemplify a particular category, experience or phenomenon.

Example of a representative case studyIn the 1920s, two sociologists used Muncie, Indiana as a case study of a typical American city that supposedly exemplified the changing culture of the US at the time.

While case studies focus more on concrete details than general theories, they should usually have some connection with theory in the field. This way the case study is not just an isolated description, but is integrated into existing knowledge about the topic. It might aim to:

• Exemplify a theory by showing how it explains the case under investigation
• Expand on a theory by uncovering new concepts and ideas that need to be incorporated
• Challenge a theory by exploring an outlier case that doesn’t fit with established assumptions

To ensure that your analysis of the case has a solid academic grounding, you should conduct a literature review of sources related to the topic and develop a theoretical framework . This means identifying key concepts and theories to guide your analysis and interpretation.

There are many different research methods you can use to collect data on your subject. Case studies tend to focus on qualitative data using methods such as interviews , observations , and analysis of primary and secondary sources (e.g., newspaper articles, photographs, official records). Sometimes a case study will also collect quantitative data.

Example of a mixed methods case studyFor a case study of a wind farm development in a rural area, you could collect quantitative data on employment rates and business revenue, collect qualitative data on local people’s perceptions and experiences, and analyze local and national media coverage of the development.

The aim is to gain as thorough an understanding as possible of the case and its context.

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In writing up the case study, you need to bring together all the relevant aspects to give as complete a picture as possible of the subject.

How you report your findings depends on the type of research you are doing. Some case studies are structured like a standard scientific paper or thesis , with separate sections or chapters for the methods , results and discussion .

Others are written in a more narrative style, aiming to explore the case from various angles and analyze its meanings and implications (for example, by using textual analysis or discourse analysis ).

In all cases, though, make sure to give contextual details about the case, connect it back to the literature and theory, and discuss how it fits into wider patterns or debates.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Normal distribution
• Degrees of freedom
• Null hypothesis
• Discourse analysis
• Control groups
• Mixed methods research
• Non-probability sampling
• Quantitative research
• Ecological validity

Research bias

• Rosenthal effect
• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Selection bias
• Negativity bias
• Status quo bias

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McCombes, S. (2023, November 20). What Is a Case Study? | Definition, Examples & Methods. Scribbr. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/case-study/

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• Introduction

The case study creation process

Types of case studies, benefits and limitations.

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• Table Of Contents

case study , detailed description and assessment of a specific situation in the real world created for the purpose of deriving generalizations and other insights from it. A case study can be about an individual, a group of people, an organization, or an event, among other subjects.

By focusing on a specific subject in its natural setting, a case study can help improve understanding of the broader features and processes at work. Case studies are a research method used in multiple fields, including business, criminology , education , medicine and other forms of health care, anthropology , political science , psychology , and social work . Data in case studies can be both qualitative and quantitative. Unlike experiments, where researchers control and manipulate situations, case studies are considered to be “naturalistic” because subjects are studied in their natural context . ( See also natural experiment .)

The creation of a case study typically involves the following steps:

• The research question to be studied is defined, informed by existing literature and previous research. Researchers should clearly define the scope of the case, and they should compile a list of evidence to be collected as well as identify the nature of insights that they expect to gain from the case study.
• Once the case is identified, the research team is given access to the individual, organization, or situation being studied. Individuals are informed of risks associated with participation and must provide their consent , which may involve signing confidentiality or anonymity agreements.
• Researchers then collect evidence using multiple methods, which may include qualitative techniques, such as interviews, focus groups , and direct observations, as well as quantitative methods, such as surveys, questionnaires, and data audits. The collection procedures need to be well defined to ensure the relevance and accuracy of the evidence.
• The collected evidence is analyzed to come up with insights. Each data source must be reviewed carefully by itself and in the larger context of the case study so as to ensure continued relevance. At the same time, care must be taken not to force the analysis to fit (potentially preconceived) conclusions. While the eventual case study may serve as the basis for generalizations, these generalizations must be made cautiously to ensure that specific nuances are not lost in the averages.
• Finally, the case study is packaged for larger groups and publication. At this stage some information may be withheld, as in business case studies, to allow readers to draw their own conclusions. In scientific fields, the completed case study needs to be a coherent whole, with all findings and statistical relationships clearly documented.

Case studies have been used as a research method across multiple fields. They are particularly popular in the fields of law, business, and employee training; they typically focus on a problem that an individual or organization is facing. The situation is presented in considerable detail, often with supporting data, to discussion participants, who are asked to make recommendations that will solve the stated problem. The business case study as a method of instruction was made popular in the 1920s by instructors at Harvard Business School who adapted an approach used at Harvard Law School in which real-world cases were used in classroom discussions. Other business and law schools started compiling case studies as teaching aids for students. In a business school case study, students are not provided with the complete list of facts pertaining to the topic and are thus forced to discuss and compare their perspectives with those of their peers to recommend solutions.

In criminology , case studies typically focus on the lives of an individual or a group of individuals. These studies can provide particularly valuable insight into the personalities and motives of individual criminals, but they may suffer from a lack of objectivity on the part of the researchers (typically because of the researchers’ biases when working with people with a criminal history), and their findings may be difficult to generalize.

In sociology , the case-study method was developed by Frédéric Le Play in France during the 19th century. This approach involves a field worker staying with a family for a period of time, gathering data on the family members’ attitudes and interactions and on their income, expenditures, and physical possessions. Similar approaches have been used in anthropology . Such studies can sometimes continue for many years.

Case studies provide insight into situations that involve a specific entity or set of circumstances. They can be beneficial in helping to explain the causal relationships between quantitative indicators in a field of study, such as what drives a company’s market share. By introducing real-world examples, they also plunge the reader into an actual, concrete situation and make the concepts real rather than theoretical. They also help people study rare situations that they might not otherwise experience.

Because case studies are in a “naturalistic” environment , they are limited in terms of research design: researchers lack control over what they are studying, which means that the results often cannot be reproduced. Also, care must be taken to stay within the bounds of the research question on which the case study is focusing. Other limitations to case studies revolve around the data collected. It may be difficult, for instance, for researchers to organize the large volume of data that can emerge from the study, and their analysis of the data must be carefully thought through to produce scientifically valid insights. The research methodology used to generate these insights is as important as the insights themselves, for the latter need to be seen in the proper context. Taken out of context, they may lead to erroneous conclusions. Like all scientific studies, case studies need to be approached objectively; personal bias or opinion may skew the research methods as well as the results. ( See also confirmation bias .)

Business case studies in particular have been criticized for approaching a problem or situation from a narrow perspective. Students are expected to come up with solutions for a problem based on the data provided. However, in real life, the situation is typically reversed: business managers face a problem and must then look for data to help them solve it.

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Other forms: case studies

• noun a detailed analysis of a person or group from a social or psychological or medical point of view see more see less type of: analysis an investigation of the component parts of a whole and their relations in making up the whole
• noun a careful study of some social unit (as a corporation or division within a corporation) that attempts to determine what factors led to its success or failure see more see less type of: report , study , written report a written document describing the findings of some individual or group

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Home » Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Case Study – Methods, Examples and Guide

Table of Contents

A case study is a research method that involves an in-depth examination and analysis of a particular phenomenon or case, such as an individual, organization, community, event, or situation.

It is a qualitative research approach that aims to provide a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the case being studied. Case studies typically involve multiple sources of data, including interviews, observations, documents, and artifacts, which are analyzed using various techniques, such as content analysis, thematic analysis, and grounded theory. The findings of a case study are often used to develop theories, inform policy or practice, or generate new research questions.

Types of Case Study

Types and Methods of Case Study are as follows:

Single-Case Study

A single-case study is an in-depth analysis of a single case. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to understand a specific phenomenon in detail.

For Example , A researcher might conduct a single-case study on a particular individual to understand their experiences with a particular health condition or a specific organization to explore their management practices. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of a single-case study are often used to generate new research questions, develop theories, or inform policy or practice.

Multiple-Case Study

A multiple-case study involves the analysis of several cases that are similar in nature. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to identify similarities and differences between the cases.

For Example, a researcher might conduct a multiple-case study on several companies to explore the factors that contribute to their success or failure. The researcher collects data from each case, compares and contrasts the findings, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as comparative analysis or pattern-matching. The findings of a multiple-case study can be used to develop theories, inform policy or practice, or generate new research questions.

Exploratory Case Study

An exploratory case study is used to explore a new or understudied phenomenon. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to generate hypotheses or theories about the phenomenon.

For Example, a researcher might conduct an exploratory case study on a new technology to understand its potential impact on society. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as grounded theory or content analysis. The findings of an exploratory case study can be used to generate new research questions, develop theories, or inform policy or practice.

Descriptive Case Study

A descriptive case study is used to describe a particular phenomenon in detail. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to provide a comprehensive account of the phenomenon.

For Example, a researcher might conduct a descriptive case study on a particular community to understand its social and economic characteristics. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of a descriptive case study can be used to inform policy or practice or generate new research questions.

Instrumental Case Study

An instrumental case study is used to understand a particular phenomenon that is instrumental in achieving a particular goal. This type of case study is useful when the researcher wants to understand the role of the phenomenon in achieving the goal.

For Example, a researcher might conduct an instrumental case study on a particular policy to understand its impact on achieving a particular goal, such as reducing poverty. The researcher collects data from multiple sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, and uses various techniques to analyze the data, such as content analysis or thematic analysis. The findings of an instrumental case study can be used to inform policy or practice or generate new research questions.

Case Study Data Collection Methods

Here are some common data collection methods for case studies:

Interviews involve asking questions to individuals who have knowledge or experience relevant to the case study. Interviews can be structured (where the same questions are asked to all participants) or unstructured (where the interviewer follows up on the responses with further questions). Interviews can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing.

Observations

Observations involve watching and recording the behavior and activities of individuals or groups relevant to the case study. Observations can be participant (where the researcher actively participates in the activities) or non-participant (where the researcher observes from a distance). Observations can be recorded using notes, audio or video recordings, or photographs.

Documents can be used as a source of information for case studies. Documents can include reports, memos, emails, letters, and other written materials related to the case study. Documents can be collected from the case study participants or from public sources.

Surveys involve asking a set of questions to a sample of individuals relevant to the case study. Surveys can be administered in person, over the phone, through mail or email, or online. Surveys can be used to gather information on attitudes, opinions, or behaviors related to the case study.

Artifacts are physical objects relevant to the case study. Artifacts can include tools, equipment, products, or other objects that provide insights into the case study phenomenon.

How to conduct Case Study Research

Conducting a case study research involves several steps that need to be followed to ensure the quality and rigor of the study. Here are the steps to conduct case study research:

• Define the research questions: The first step in conducting a case study research is to define the research questions. The research questions should be specific, measurable, and relevant to the case study phenomenon under investigation.
• Select the case: The next step is to select the case or cases to be studied. The case should be relevant to the research questions and should provide rich and diverse data that can be used to answer the research questions.
• Collect data: Data can be collected using various methods, such as interviews, observations, documents, surveys, and artifacts. The data collection method should be selected based on the research questions and the nature of the case study phenomenon.
• Analyze the data: The data collected from the case study should be analyzed using various techniques, such as content analysis, thematic analysis, or grounded theory. The analysis should be guided by the research questions and should aim to provide insights and conclusions relevant to the research questions.
• Draw conclusions: The conclusions drawn from the case study should be based on the data analysis and should be relevant to the research questions. The conclusions should be supported by evidence and should be clearly stated.
• Validate the findings: The findings of the case study should be validated by reviewing the data and the analysis with participants or other experts in the field. This helps to ensure the validity and reliability of the findings.
• Write the report: The final step is to write the report of the case study research. The report should provide a clear description of the case study phenomenon, the research questions, the data collection methods, the data analysis, the findings, and the conclusions. The report should be written in a clear and concise manner and should follow the guidelines for academic writing.

Examples of Case Study

Here are some examples of case study research:

• The Hawthorne Studies : Conducted between 1924 and 1932, the Hawthorne Studies were a series of case studies conducted by Elton Mayo and his colleagues to examine the impact of work environment on employee productivity. The studies were conducted at the Hawthorne Works plant of the Western Electric Company in Chicago and included interviews, observations, and experiments.
• The Stanford Prison Experiment: Conducted in 1971, the Stanford Prison Experiment was a case study conducted by Philip Zimbardo to examine the psychological effects of power and authority. The study involved simulating a prison environment and assigning participants to the role of guards or prisoners. The study was controversial due to the ethical issues it raised.
• The Challenger Disaster: The Challenger Disaster was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion in 1986. The study included interviews, observations, and analysis of data to identify the technical, organizational, and cultural factors that contributed to the disaster.
• The Enron Scandal: The Enron Scandal was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the Enron Corporation’s bankruptcy in 2001. The study included interviews, analysis of financial data, and review of documents to identify the accounting practices, corporate culture, and ethical issues that led to the company’s downfall.
• The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster : The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster was a case study conducted to examine the causes of the nuclear accident that occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan in 2011. The study included interviews, analysis of data, and review of documents to identify the technical, organizational, and cultural factors that contributed to the disaster.

Application of Case Study

Case studies have a wide range of applications across various fields and industries. Here are some examples:

Business and Management

Case studies are widely used in business and management to examine real-life situations and develop problem-solving skills. Case studies can help students and professionals to develop a deep understanding of business concepts, theories, and best practices.

Case studies are used in healthcare to examine patient care, treatment options, and outcomes. Case studies can help healthcare professionals to develop critical thinking skills, diagnose complex medical conditions, and develop effective treatment plans.

Case studies are used in education to examine teaching and learning practices. Case studies can help educators to develop effective teaching strategies, evaluate student progress, and identify areas for improvement.

Social Sciences

Case studies are widely used in social sciences to examine human behavior, social phenomena, and cultural practices. Case studies can help researchers to develop theories, test hypotheses, and gain insights into complex social issues.

Law and Ethics

Case studies are used in law and ethics to examine legal and ethical dilemmas. Case studies can help lawyers, policymakers, and ethical professionals to develop critical thinking skills, analyze complex cases, and make informed decisions.

Purpose of Case Study

The purpose of a case study is to provide a detailed analysis of a specific phenomenon, issue, or problem in its real-life context. A case study is a qualitative research method that involves the in-depth exploration and analysis of a particular case, which can be an individual, group, organization, event, or community.

The primary purpose of a case study is to generate a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the case, including its history, context, and dynamics. Case studies can help researchers to identify and examine the underlying factors, processes, and mechanisms that contribute to the case and its outcomes. This can help to develop a more accurate and detailed understanding of the case, which can inform future research, practice, or policy.

Case studies can also serve other purposes, including:

• Illustrating a theory or concept: Case studies can be used to illustrate and explain theoretical concepts and frameworks, providing concrete examples of how they can be applied in real-life situations.
• Developing hypotheses: Case studies can help to generate hypotheses about the causal relationships between different factors and outcomes, which can be tested through further research.
• Providing insight into complex issues: Case studies can provide insights into complex and multifaceted issues, which may be difficult to understand through other research methods.
• Informing practice or policy: Case studies can be used to inform practice or policy by identifying best practices, lessons learned, or areas for improvement.

Advantages of Case Study Research

There are several advantages of case study research, including:

• In-depth exploration: Case study research allows for a detailed exploration and analysis of a specific phenomenon, issue, or problem in its real-life context. This can provide a comprehensive understanding of the case and its dynamics, which may not be possible through other research methods.
• Rich data: Case study research can generate rich and detailed data, including qualitative data such as interviews, observations, and documents. This can provide a nuanced understanding of the case and its complexity.
• Holistic perspective: Case study research allows for a holistic perspective of the case, taking into account the various factors, processes, and mechanisms that contribute to the case and its outcomes. This can help to develop a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the case.
• Theory development: Case study research can help to develop and refine theories and concepts by providing empirical evidence and concrete examples of how they can be applied in real-life situations.
• Practical application: Case study research can inform practice or policy by identifying best practices, lessons learned, or areas for improvement.
• Contextualization: Case study research takes into account the specific context in which the case is situated, which can help to understand how the case is influenced by the social, cultural, and historical factors of its environment.

Limitations of Case Study Research

There are several limitations of case study research, including:

• Limited generalizability : Case studies are typically focused on a single case or a small number of cases, which limits the generalizability of the findings. The unique characteristics of the case may not be applicable to other contexts or populations, which may limit the external validity of the research.
• Biased sampling: Case studies may rely on purposive or convenience sampling, which can introduce bias into the sample selection process. This may limit the representativeness of the sample and the generalizability of the findings.
• Subjectivity: Case studies rely on the interpretation of the researcher, which can introduce subjectivity into the analysis. The researcher’s own biases, assumptions, and perspectives may influence the findings, which may limit the objectivity of the research.
• Limited control: Case studies are typically conducted in naturalistic settings, which limits the control that the researcher has over the environment and the variables being studied. This may limit the ability to establish causal relationships between variables.
• Time-consuming: Case studies can be time-consuming to conduct, as they typically involve a detailed exploration and analysis of a specific case. This may limit the feasibility of conducting multiple case studies or conducting case studies in a timely manner.
• Resource-intensive: Case studies may require significant resources, including time, funding, and expertise. This may limit the ability of researchers to conduct case studies in resource-constrained settings.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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6 Types of Case Studies to Inspire Your Research and Analysis

Written by: Ronita Mohan Sep 20, 2021

Case studies have become powerful business tools. But what is a case study? What are the benefits of creating one? Are there limitations to the format?

If you’ve asked yourself these questions, our helpful guide will clear things up. Learn how to use a case study for business. Find out how cases analysis works in psychology and research.

We’ve also got examples of case studies to inspire you.

Haven’t made a case study before? You can easily  create a case study  with Venngage’s customizable case study templates .

Click to jump ahead:

What is a case study?

6 types of case studies, what is a business case study, what is a case study in research, what is a case study in psychology, what is the case study method, benefits of case studies, limitations of case studies, faqs about case studies.

A case study is a research process aimed at learning about a subject, an event or an organization. Case studies are use in business, the social sciences and healthcare.

A case study may focus on one observation or many. It can also examine a series of events or a single case. An effective case study tells a story and provides a conclusion.

Healthcare industries write reports on patients and diagnoses. Marketing case study examples , like the one below, highlight the benefits of a business product.

Now that you know what a case study is, let’s look at the six different types of case studies next.

There are six common types of case reports. Depending on your industry, you might use one of these types.

Descriptive case studies

Explanatory case studies, exploratory case reports, intrinsic case studies, instrumental case studies, collective case reports.

We go into more detail about each type of study in the guide below.

Related:  15+ Professional Case Study Examples [Design Tips + Templates]

When you have an existing hypothesis, you can design a descriptive study. This type of report starts with a description. The aim is to find connections between the subject being studied and a theory.

Once these connections are found, the study can conclude. The results of this type of study will usually suggest how to develop a theory further.

A study like the one below has concrete results. A descriptive report would use the quantitative data as a suggestion for researching the subject deeply.

When an incident occurs in a field, an explanation is required. An explanatory report investigates the cause of the event. It will include explanations for that cause.

The study will also share details about the impact of the event. In most cases, this report will use evidence to predict future occurrences. The results of explanatory reports are definitive.

Note that there is no room for interpretation here. The results are absolute.

The study below is a good example. It explains how one brand used the services of another. It concludes by showing definitive proof that the collaboration was successful.

Another example of this study would be in the automotive industry. If a vehicle fails a test, an explanatory study will examine why. The results could show that the failure was because of a particular part.

Related: How to Write a Case Study [+ Design Tips]

An explanatory report is a self-contained document. An exploratory one is only the beginning of an investigation.

Exploratory cases act as the starting point of studies. This is usually conducted as a precursor to large-scale investigations. The research is used to suggest why further investigations are needed.

An exploratory study can also be used to suggest methods for further examination.

For example, the below analysis could have found inconclusive results. In that situation, it would be the basis for an in-depth study.

Intrinsic studies are more common in the field of psychology. These reports can also be conducted in healthcare or social work.

These types of studies focus on a unique subject, such as a patient. They can sometimes study groups close to the researcher.

The aim of such studies is to understand the subject better. This requires learning their history. The researcher will also examine how they interact with their environment.

For instance, if the case study below was about a unique brand, it could be an intrinsic study.

Once the study is complete, the researcher will have developed a better understanding of a phenomenon. This phenomenon will likely not have been studied or theorized about before.

Examples of intrinsic case analysis can be found across psychology. For example, Jean Piaget’s theories on cognitive development. He established the theory from intrinsic studies into his own children.

Related: What Disney Villains Can Tell Us About Color Psychology [Infographic]

This is another type of study seen in medical and psychology fields. Instrumental reports are created to examine more than just the primary subject.

When research is conducted for an instrumental study, it is to provide the basis for a larger phenomenon. The subject matter is usually the best example of the phenomenon. This is why it is being studied.

Take the example of the fictional brand below.

Assume it’s examining lead generation strategies. It may want to show that visual marketing is the definitive lead generation tool. The brand can conduct an instrumental case study to examine this phenomenon.

Collective studies are based on instrumental case reports. These types of studies examine multiple reports.

There are a number of reasons why collective reports are created:

• To provide evidence for starting a new study
• To find pattens between multiple instrumental reports
• To find differences in similar types of cases
• Gain a deeper understanding of a complex phenomenon
• Understand a phenomenon from diverse contexts

A researcher could use multiple reports, like the one below, to build a collective case report.

Related: 10+ Case Study Infographic Templates That Convert

A business or marketing case study aims at showcasing a successful partnership. This can be between a brand and a client. Or the case study can examine a brand’s project.

There is a perception that case studies are used to advertise a brand. But effective reports, like the one below, can show clients how a brand can support them.

Hubspot created a case study on a customer that successfully scaled its business. The report outlines the various Hubspot tools used to achieve these results.

Hubspot also added a video with testimonials from the client company’s employees.

So, what is the purpose of a case study for businesses? There is a lot of competition in the corporate world. Companies are run by people. They can be on the fence about which brand to work with.

Business reports  stand out aesthetically, as well. They use  brand colors  and brand fonts . Usually, a combination of the client’s and the brand’s.

With the Venngage  My Brand Kit  feature, businesses can automatically apply their brand to designs.

A business case study, like the one below, acts as social proof. This helps customers decide between your brand and your competitors.

Don’t know how to design a report? You can learn  how to write a case study  with Venngage’s guide. We also share design tips and examples that will help you convert.

Related: 55+ Annual Report Design Templates, Inspirational Examples & Tips [Updated]

Research is a necessary part of every case study. But specific research fields are required to create studies. These fields include user research, healthcare, education, or social work.

For example, this UX Design  report examined the public perception of a client. The brand researched and implemented new visuals to improve it. The study breaks down this research through lessons learned.

Clinical reports are a necessity in the medical field. These documents are used to share knowledge with other professionals. They also help examine new or unusual diseases or symptoms.

The pandemic has led to a significant increase in research. For example,  Spectrum Health  studied the value of health systems in the pandemic. They created the study by examining community outreach.

The pandemic has significantly impacted the field of education. This has led to numerous examinations on remote studying. There have also been studies on how students react to decreased peer communication.

Social work case reports often have a community focus. They can also examine public health responses. In certain regions, social workers study disaster responses.

You now know what case studies in various fields are. In the next step of our guide, we explain the case study method.

In the field of psychology, case studies focus on a particular subject. Psychology case histories also examine human behaviors.

Case reports search for commonalities between humans. They are also used to prescribe further research. Or these studies can elaborate on a solution for a behavioral ailment.

The American Psychology Association  has a number of case studies on real-life clients. Note how the reports are more text-heavy than a business case study.

Famous psychologists such as Sigmund Freud and Anna O popularised the use of case studies in the field. They did so by regularly interviewing subjects. Their detailed observations build the field of psychology.

It is important to note that psychological studies must be conducted by professionals. Psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists should be the researchers in these cases.

Related: What Netflix’s Top 50 Shows Can Teach Us About Font Psychology [Infographic]

The case study method, or case method, is a learning technique where you’re presented with a real-world business challenge and asked how you’d solve it.

After working through it independently and with peers, you learn how the actual scenario unfolded. This approach helps develop problem-solving skills and practical knowledge.

This method often uses various data sources like interviews, observations, and documents to provide comprehensive insights. The below example would have been created after numerous interviews.

Case studies are largely qualitative. They analyze and describe phenomena. While some data is included, a case analysis is not quantitative.

There are a few steps in the case method. You have to start by identifying the subject of your study. Then determine what kind of research is required.

In natural sciences, case studies can take years to complete. Business reports, like this one, don’t take that long. A few weeks of interviews should be enough.

The case method will vary depending on the industry. Reports will also look different once produced.

As you will have seen, business reports are more colorful. The design is also more accessible . Healthcare and psychology reports are more text-heavy.

Designing case reports takes time and energy. So, is it worth taking the time to write them? Here are the benefits of creating case studies.

• Collects large amounts of information
• Helps formulate hypotheses
• Builds the case for further research
• Discovers new insights into a subject
• Builds brand trust and loyalty
• Engages customers through stories

For example, the business study below creates a story around a brand partnership. It makes for engaging reading. The study also shows evidence backing up the information.

We’ve shared the benefits of why studies are needed. We will also look at the limitations of creating them.

Related: How to Present a Case Study like a Pro (With Examples)

There are a few disadvantages to conducting a case analysis. The limitations will vary according to the industry.

• Responses from interviews are subjective
• Subjects may tailor responses to the researcher
• Studies can’t always be replicated
• In certain industries, analyses can take time and be expensive
• Risk of generalizing the results among a larger population

These are some of the common weaknesses of creating case reports. If you’re on the fence, look at the competition in your industry.

Other brands or professionals are building reports, like this example. In that case, you may want to do the same.

What makes a case study a case study?

A case study has a very particular research methodology. They are an in-depth study of a person or a group of individuals. They can also study a community or an organization. Case reports examine real-world phenomena within a set context.

How long should a case study be?

The length of studies depends on the industry. It also depends on the story you’re telling. Most case studies should be at least 500-1500 words long. But you can increase the length if you have more details to share.

What should you ask in a case study?

The one thing you shouldn’t ask is ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions. Case studies are qualitative. These questions won’t give you the information you need.

Ask your client about the problems they faced. Ask them about solutions they found. Or what they think is the ideal solution. Leave room to ask them follow-up questions. This will help build out the study.

How to present a case study?

When you’re ready to present a case study, begin by providing a summary of the problem or challenge you were addressing. Follow this with an outline of the solution you implemented, and support this with the results you achieved, backed by relevant data. Incorporate visual aids like slides, graphs, and images to make your case study presentation more engaging and impactful.

Now you know what a case study means, you can begin creating one. These reports are a great tool for analyzing brands. They are also useful in a variety of other fields.

Use a visual communication platform like Venngage to design case studies. With Venngage’s templates, you can design easily. Create branded, engaging reports, all without design experience.

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Definition of case study

Examples of case study in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'case study.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1914, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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“Case study.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/case%20study. Accessed 29 Aug. 2024.

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Related terms for case studies - synonyms, antonyms and sentences with case studies, similar meaning.

• case histories
• concrete cases
• specific instances
• specific cases
• medical histories
• documentation
• case samples
• whitepapers
• ethnographies
• what case files
• usage examples
• qualitative surveys
• evidence in the form of anecdotes
• medical records
• clinical descriptions

Opposite meaning

• wider context

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• ablative case
• antitrust case
• as the case may be
• business case
• case by case
• case sensitive
• case system
• dative case
• dressing case
• genitive case
• glasses case
• in that case
• instrumental case
• letter case
• locative case
• nominative case
• overnight case

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• Another six case studies are planned
• Are references and case studies available?
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• It also provides case studies and identifies good practices

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How a Case Study Differs from Other Types of Research

When it comes to research, there are a variety of methods used to acquire data and draw conclusions. Among them is the case study, which looks in depth at a single event or individual to gain insight into broader trends. But how does this approach differ from other types of research? In this blog post, we’ll explore the distinctions between case studies and other types of research — such as surveys and experiments — so that you can decide which method is best for your project.

Let’s start by defining what a case study is. A case study is an in-depth look at a specific event, person or situation in order to draw conclusions about broader trends or issues. It involves collecting qualitative (e.g., interviews) and quantitative (e.g., surveys) data from multiple sources and analyzing it to form an argument or hypothesis. Unlike some other types of research, case studies are not necessarily intended to be generalizable; rather, they are meant to provide insight into the particular subject being studied.

Case studies differ from other types of research in several ways:

They rely heavily on qualitative data: As mentioned above, one key distinction between a case study and other forms of research is that it relies heavily on qualitative data — such as interviews — rather than quantitative data like surveys or experiments. Qualitative data provides deeper insight into the subject being studied by delving into its complexities and nuances, which can often be missed by more structured forms of data collection like surveys or experiments.

They focus on a single event/person/situation: Another distinguishing feature of case studies is that they focus on studying one particular event/person/situation in depth rather than attempting to draw broad generalizations from multiple sources or cases. This allows researchers to gain insight into the dynamics at play within the particular context being studied, rather than attempting to make larger claims about similar events in different contexts without adequate evidence to support them.

They may not be generalizable: Finally, unlike some other forms of research that seek generalizable results applicable across multiple contexts (e.g., survey results), case studies may not necessarily have generalizability as their primary goal; instead, they seek deeper understanding through exploring details within the single context being studied itself.

When a case study is the best approach

Now that we’ve looked at what distinguishes a case study from other types of research let’s consider when it might be most appropriate for your project needs:

When you need an in-depth understanding: Case studies are particularly well suited for projects where an in-depth understanding of an individual person/event/situation is needed rather than broad generalizations about similar events across multiple contexts. For example, if you were researching how people interact with technology and wanted greater insight into how different users interact with specific software applications then conducting several detailed interviews with users would likely yield better results than conducting a survey across multiple populations where responses might be more generic due to lack of personal detail involved with each response given by participants .

When you need contextual information: Case studies are also useful when considering complex situations where contextual information may influence outcomes; for example if you wanted to understand how poverty affects access to education then looking at individual stories within certain communities could provide valuable insights that would otherwise be missed if only considering survey responses from those communities without any further exploration through interviews etc..

When you need rich narrative detail: Finally, if your project requires rich narrative detail — such as stories about peoples lives — then again conducting several detailed interviews would likely yield better results than simply surveying participants as these kinds of stories may not always come out through standard survey questions alone due to lack of personal engagement involved with completing them accurately etc.

In conclusion then while there are many similarities between various forms of research there are also important distinctions between them too – particularly when comparing something like a case study against something like surveys or experiments etc.. The key takeaway here though should be when deciding which method best suits your project needs consider carefully whether getting an ‘in-depth understanding’ , ‘contextual information’ , ‘rich narrative detail’ etc..are primary goals – then use this knowledge alongside others factors such as time available , budget constraints etc..to decide which method best fits your requirements overall .

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• in medias res
• misdescription
• running commentary phrase
• semi-legendary
• shaggy-dog story
• write something up

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15 Real-Life Case Study Examples & Best Practices

Written by: Oghale Olori

Case studies are more than just success stories.

They are powerful tools that demonstrate the practical value of your product or service. Case studies help attract attention to your products, build trust with potential customers and ultimately drive sales.

It’s no wonder that 73% of successful content marketers utilize case studies as part of their content strategy. Plus, buyers spend 54% of their time reviewing case studies before they make a buying decision.

To ensure you’re making the most of your case studies, we’ve put together 15 real-life case study examples to inspire you. These examples span a variety of industries and formats. We’ve also included best practices, design tips and templates to inspire you.

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a case study, 15 real-life case study examples, sales case study examples, saas case study examples, product case study examples, marketing case study examples, business case study examples, case study faqs.

• A case study is a compelling narrative that showcases how your product or service has positively impacted a real business or individual. 
• Case studies delve into your customer's challenges, how your solution addressed them and the quantifiable results they achieved.
• Your case study should have an attention-grabbing headline, great visuals and a relevant call to action. Other key elements include an introduction, problems and result section.
• Visme provides easy-to-use tools, professionally designed templates and features for creating attractive and engaging case studies.

A case study is a real-life scenario where your company helped a person or business solve their unique challenges. It provides a detailed analysis of the positive outcomes achieved as a result of implementing your solution.

Case studies are an effective way to showcase the value of your product or service to potential customers without overt selling. By sharing how your company transformed a business, you can attract customers seeking similar solutions and results.

Case studies are not only about your company's capabilities; they are primarily about the benefits customers and clients have experienced from using your product.

Every great case study is made up of key elements. They are;

• Attention-grabbing headline: Write a compelling headline that grabs attention and tells your reader what the case study is about. For example, "How a CRM System Helped a B2B Company Increase Revenue by 225%.
• Introduction/Executive Summary: Include a brief overview of your case study, including your customer’s problem, the solution they implemented and the results they achieved.
• Problem/Challenge: Case studies with solutions offer a powerful way to connect with potential customers. In this section, explain how your product or service specifically addressed your customer's challenges.
• Solution: Explain how your product or service specifically addressed your customer's challenges.
• Results/Achievements : Give a detailed account of the positive impact of your product. Quantify the benefits achieved using metrics such as increased sales, improved efficiency, reduced costs or enhanced customer satisfaction.
• Graphics/Visuals: Include professional designs, high-quality photos and videos to make your case study more engaging and visually appealing.
• Quotes/Testimonials: Incorporate written or video quotes from your clients to boost your credibility.
• Relevant CTA: Insert a call to action (CTA) that encourages the reader to take action. For example, visiting your website or contacting you for more information. Your CTA can be a link to a landing page, a contact form or your social media handle and should be related to the product or service you highlighted in your case study.

Now that you understand what a case study is, let’s look at real-life case study examples. Among these, you'll find some simple case study examples that break down complex ideas into easily understandable solutions.

In this section, we’ll explore SaaS, marketing, sales, product and business case study examples with solutions. Take note of how these companies structured their case studies and included the key elements.

We’ve also included professionally designed case study templates to inspire you.

1. Georgia Tech Athletics Increase Season Ticket Sales by 80%

Georgia Tech Athletics, with its 8,000 football season ticket holders, sought for a way to increase efficiency and customer engagement.

Their initial sales process involved making multiple outbound phone calls per day with no real targeting or guidelines. Georgia Tech believed that targeting communications will enable them to reach more people in real time.

Salesloft improved Georgia Tech’s sales process with an inbound structure. This enabled sales reps to connect with their customers on a more targeted level. The use of dynamic fields and filters when importing lists ensured prospects received the right information, while communication with existing fans became faster with automation.

As a result, Georgia Tech Athletics recorded an 80% increase in season ticket sales as relationships with season ticket holders significantly improved. Employee engagement increased as employees became more energized to connect and communicate with fans.

Why Does This Case Study Work?

In this case study example , Salesloft utilized the key elements of a good case study. Their introduction gave an overview of their customers' challenges and the results they enjoyed after using them. After which they categorized the case study into three main sections: challenge, solution and result.

Salesloft utilized a case study video to increase engagement and invoke human connection.

Incorporating videos in your case study has a lot of benefits. Wyzol’s 2023 state of video marketing report showed a direct correlation between videos and an 87% increase in sales.

The beautiful thing is that creating videos for your case study doesn’t have to be daunting.

With an easy-to-use platform like Visme, you can create top-notch testimonial videos that will connect with your audience. Within the Visme editor, you can access over 1 million stock photos , video templates, animated graphics and more. These tools and resources will significantly improve the design and engagement of your case study.

Simplify content creation and brand management for your team

• Collaborate on designs , mockups and wireframes with your non-design colleagues
• Lock down your branding to maintain brand consistency throughout your designs
• Why start from scratch? Save time with 1000s of professional branded templates

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2. WeightWatchers Completely Revamped their Enterprise Sales Process with HubSpot

WeightWatchers, a 60-year-old wellness company, sought a CRM solution that increased the efficiency of their sales process. With their previous system, Weightwatchers had limited automation. They would copy-paste message templates from word documents or recreate one email for a batch of customers.

This required a huge effort from sales reps, account managers and leadership, as they were unable to track leads or pull customized reports for planning and growth.

WeightWatchers transformed their B2B sales strategy by leveraging HubSpot's robust marketing and sales workflows. They utilized HubSpot’s deal pipeline and automation features to streamline lead qualification. And the customized dashboard gave leadership valuable insights.

As a result, WeightWatchers generated seven figures in annual contract value and boosted recurring revenue. Hubspot’s impact resulted in 100% adoption across all sales, marketing, client success and operations teams.

Hubspot structured its case study into separate sections, demonstrating the specific benefits of their products to various aspects of the customer's business. Additionally, they integrated direct customer quotes in each section to boost credibility, resulting in a more compelling case study.

Getting insight from your customer about their challenges is one thing. But writing about their process and achievements in a concise and relatable way is another. If you find yourself constantly experiencing writer’s block, Visme’s AI writer is perfect for you.

Visme created this AI text generator tool to take your ideas and transform them into a great draft. So whether you need help writing your first draft or editing your final case study, Visme is ready for you.

3. Immi’s Ram Fam Helps to Drive Over $200k in Sales

Immi embarked on a mission to recreate healthier ramen recipes that were nutritious and delicious. After 2 years of tireless trials, Immi finally found the perfect ramen recipe. However, they envisioned a community of passionate ramen enthusiasts to fuel their business growth.

This vision propelled them to partner with Shopify Collabs. Shopify Collabs successfully cultivated and managed Immi’s Ramen community of ambassadors and creators.

As a result of their partnership, Immi’s community grew to more than 400 dedicated members, generating over $200,000 in total affiliate sales.

The power of data-driven headlines cannot be overemphasized. Chili Piper strategically incorporates quantifiable results in their headlines. This instantly sparks curiosity and interest in readers.

While not every customer success story may boast headline-grabbing figures, quantifying achievements in percentages is still effective. For example, you can highlight a 50% revenue increase with the implementation of your product.

Take a look at the beautiful case study template below. Just like in the example above, the figures in the headline instantly grab attention and entice your reader to click through.

Having a case study document is a key factor in boosting engagement. This makes it easy to promote your case study in multiple ways. With Visme, you can easily publish, download and share your case study with your customers in a variety of formats, including PDF, PPTX, JPG and more!

4. How WOW! is Saving Nearly 79% in Time and Cost With Visme

This case study discusses how Visme helped WOW! save time and money by providing user-friendly tools to create interactive and quality training materials for their employees. Find out what your team can do with Visme. Request a Demo

WOW!'s learning and development team creates high-quality training materials for new and existing employees. Previous tools and platforms they used had plain templates, little to no interactivity features, and limited flexibility—that is, until they discovered Visme.

Now, the learning and development team at WOW! use Visme to create engaging infographics, training videos, slide decks and other training materials.

This has directly reduced the company's turnover rate, saving them money spent on recruiting and training new employees. It has also saved them a significant amount of time, which they can now allocate to other important tasks.

Visme's customer testimonials spark an emotional connection with the reader, leaving a profound impact. Upon reading this case study, prospective customers will be blown away by the remarkable efficiency achieved by Visme's clients after switching from PowerPoint.

Visme’s interactivity feature was a game changer for WOW! and one of the primary reasons they chose Visme.

“Previously we were using PowerPoint, which is fine, but the interactivity you can get with Visme is so much more robust that we’ve all steered away from PowerPoint.” - Kendra, L&D team, Wow!

Visme’s interactive feature allowed them to animate their infographics, include clickable links on their PowerPoint designs and even embed polls and quizzes their employees could interact with.

By embedding the slide decks, infographics and other training materials WOW! created with Visme, potential customers get a taste of what they can create with the tool. This is much more effective than describing the features of Visme because it allows potential customers to see the tool in action.

To top it all off, this case study utilized relevant data and figures. For example, one part of the case study said, “In Visme, where Kendra’s team has access to hundreds of templates, a brand kit, and millions of design assets at their disposal, their team can create presentations in 80% less time.”

Who wouldn't want that?

Including relevant figures and graphics in your case study is a sure way to convince your potential customers why you’re a great fit for their brand. The case study template below is a great example of integrating relevant figures and data.

This colorful template begins with a captivating headline. But that is not the best part; this template extensively showcases the results their customer had using relevant figures.

The arrangement of the results makes it fun and attractive. Instead of just putting figures in a plain table, you can find interesting shapes in your Visme editor to take your case study to the next level.

5. Lyte Reduces Customer Churn To Just 3% With Hubspot CRM

While Lyte was redefining the ticketing industry, it had no definite CRM system . Lyte utilized 12–15 different SaaS solutions across various departments, which led to a lack of alignment between teams, duplication of work and overlapping tasks.

Customer data was spread across these platforms, making it difficult to effectively track their customer journey. As a result, their churn rate increased along with customer dissatisfaction.

Through Fuelius , Lyte founded and implemented Hubspot CRM. Lyte's productivity skyrocketed after incorporating Hubspot's all-in-one CRM tool. With improved efficiency, better teamwork and stronger client relationships, sales figures soared.

The case study title page and executive summary act as compelling entry points for both existing and potential customers. This overview provides a clear understanding of the case study and also strategically incorporates key details like the client's industry, location and relevant background information.

Having a good summary of your case study can prompt your readers to engage further. You can achieve this with a simple but effective case study one-pager that highlights your customer’s problems, process and achievements, just like this case study did in the beginning.

Moreover, you can easily distribute your case study one-pager and use it as a lead magnet to draw prospective customers to your company.

Take a look at this case study one-pager template below.

This template includes key aspects of your case study, such as the introduction, key findings, conclusion and more, without overcrowding the page. The use of multiple shades of blue gives it a clean and dynamic layout.

Our favorite part of this template is where the age group is visualized.

With Visme’s data visualization tool , you can present your data in tables, graphs, progress bars, maps and so much more. All you need to do is choose your preferred data visualization widget, input or import your data and click enter!

6. How Workato Converts 75% of Their Qualified Leads

Workato wanted to improve their inbound leads and increase their conversion rate, which ranged from 40-55%.

At first, Workato searched for a simple scheduling tool. They soon discovered that they needed a tool that provided advanced routing capabilities based on zip code and other criteria. Luckily, they found and implemented Chili Piper.

As a result of implementing Chili Piper, Workato achieved a remarkable 75–80% conversion rate and improved show rates. This led to a substantial revenue boost, with a 10-15% increase in revenue attributed to Chili Piper's impact on lead conversion.

This case study example utilizes the power of video testimonials to drive the impact of their product.

Chili Piper incorporates screenshots and clips of their tool in use. This is a great strategy because it helps your viewers become familiar with how your product works, making onboarding new customers much easier.

In this case study example, we see the importance of efficient Workflow Management Systems (WMS). Without a WMS, you manually assign tasks to your team members and engage in multiple emails for regular updates on progress.

However, when crafting and designing your case study, you should prioritize having a good WMS.

Visme has an outstanding Workflow Management System feature that keeps you on top of all your projects and designs. This feature makes it much easier to assign roles, ensure accuracy across documents, and track progress and deadlines.

Visme’s WMS feature allows you to limit access to your entire document by assigning specific slides or pages to individual members of your team. At the end of the day, your team members are not overwhelmed or distracted by the whole document but can focus on their tasks.

7. Rush Order Helps Vogmask Scale-Up During a Pandemic

Vomask's reliance on third-party fulfillment companies became a challenge as demand for their masks grew. Seeking a reliable fulfillment partner, they found Rush Order and entrusted them with their entire inventory.

Vomask's partnership with Rush Order proved to be a lifesaver during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rush Order's agility, efficiency and commitment to customer satisfaction helped Vogmask navigate the unprecedented demand and maintain its reputation for quality and service.

Rush Order’s comprehensive support enabled Vogmask to scale up its order processing by a staggering 900% while maintaining a remarkable customer satisfaction rate of 92%.

Rush Order chose one event where their impact mattered the most to their customer and shared that story.

While pandemics don't happen every day, you can look through your customer’s journey and highlight a specific time or scenario where your product or service saved their business.

The story of Vogmask and Rush Order is compelling, but it simply is not enough. The case study format and design attract readers' attention and make them want to know more. Rush Order uses consistent colors throughout the case study, starting with the logo, bold square blocks, pictures, and even headers.

Take a look at this product case study template below.

Just like our example, this case study template utilizes bold colors and large squares to attract and maintain the reader’s attention. It provides enough room for you to write about your customers' backgrounds/introductions, challenges, goals and results.

The right combination of shapes and colors adds a level of professionalism to this case study template.

8. AMR Hair & Beauty leverages B2B functionality to boost sales by 200%

With limits on website customization, slow page loading and multiple website crashes during peak events, it wasn't long before AMR Hair & Beauty began looking for a new e-commerce solution.

Their existing platform lacked effective search and filtering options, a seamless checkout process and the data analytics capabilities needed for informed decision-making. This led to a significant number of abandoned carts.

Upon switching to Shopify Plus, AMR immediately saw improvements in page loading speed and average session duration. They added better search and filtering options for their wholesale customers and customized their checkout process.

Due to this, AMR witnessed a 200% increase in sales and a 77% rise in B2B average order value. AMR Hair & Beauty is now poised for further expansion and growth.

This case study example showcases the power of a concise and impactful narrative.

To make their case analysis more effective, Shopify focused on the most relevant aspects of the customer's journey. While there may have been other challenges the customer faced, they only included those that directly related to their solutions.

Take a look at this case study template below. It is perfect if you want to create a concise but effective case study. Without including unnecessary details, you can outline the challenges, solutions and results your customers experienced from using your product.

Don’t forget to include a strong CTA within your case study. By incorporating a link, sidebar pop-up or an exit pop-up into your case study, you can prompt your readers and prospective clients to connect with you.

9. How a Marketing Agency Uses Visme to Create Engaging Content With Infographics

SmartBox Dental , a marketing agency specializing in dental practices, sought ways to make dental advice more interesting and easier to read. However, they lacked the design skills to do so effectively.

Visme's wide range of templates and features made it easy for the team to create high-quality content quickly and efficiently. SmartBox Dental enjoyed creating infographics in as little as 10-15 minutes, compared to one hour before Visme was implemented.

By leveraging Visme, SmartBox Dental successfully transformed dental content into a more enjoyable and informative experience for their clients' patients. Therefore enhancing its reputation as a marketing partner that goes the extra mile to deliver value to its clients.

Visme creatively incorporates testimonials In this case study example.

By showcasing infographics and designs created by their clients, they leverage the power of social proof in a visually compelling way. This way, potential customers gain immediate insight into the creative possibilities Visme offers as a design tool.

This example effectively showcases a product's versatility and impact, and we can learn a lot about writing a case study from it. Instead of focusing on one tool or feature per customer, Visme took a more comprehensive approach.

Within each section of their case study, Visme explained how a particular tool or feature played a key role in solving the customer's challenges.

For example, this case study highlighted Visme’s collaboration tool . With Visme’s tool, the SmartBox Dental content team fostered teamwork, accountability and effective supervision.

Visme also achieved a versatile case study by including relevant quotes to showcase each tool or feature. Take a look at some examples;

Visme’s collaboration tool: “We really like the collaboration tool. Being able to see what a co-worker is working on and borrow their ideas or collaborate on a project to make sure we get the best end result really helps us out.”

Visme’s library of stock photos and animated characters: “I really love the images and the look those give to an infographic. I also really like the animated little guys and the animated pictures. That’s added a lot of fun to our designs.”

Visme’s interactivity feature: “You can add URLs and phone number links directly into the infographic so they can just click and call or go to another page on the website and I really like adding those hyperlinks in.”

You can ask your customers to talk about the different products or features that helped them achieve their business success and draw quotes from each one.

10. Jasper Grows Blog Organic Sessions 810% and Blog-Attributed User Signups 400X

Jasper, an AI writing tool, lacked a scalable content strategy to drive organic traffic and user growth. They needed help creating content that converted visitors into users. Especially when a looming domain migration threatened organic traffic.

To address these challenges, Jasper partnered with Omniscient Digital. Their goal was to turn their content into a growth channel and drive organic growth. Omniscient Digital developed a full content strategy for Jasper AI, which included a content audit, competitive analysis, and keyword discovery.

Through their collaboration, Jasper’s organic blog sessions increased by 810%, despite the domain migration. They also witnessed a 400X increase in blog-attributed signups. And more importantly, the content program contributed to over $4 million in annual recurring revenue.

The combination of storytelling and video testimonials within the case study example makes this a real winner. But there’s a twist to it. Omniscient segmented the video testimonials and placed them in different sections of the case study.

Video marketing , especially in case studies, works wonders. Research shows us that 42% of people prefer video testimonials because they show real customers with real success stories. So if you haven't thought of it before, incorporate video testimonials into your case study.

Take a look at this stunning video testimonial template. With its simple design, you can input the picture, name and quote of your customer within your case study in a fun and engaging way.

Try it yourself! Customize this template with your customer’s testimonial and add it to your case study!

11. How Meliá Became One of the Most Influential Hotel Chains on Social Media

Meliá Hotels needed help managing their growing social media customer service needs. Despite having over 500 social accounts, they lacked a unified response protocol and detailed reporting. This largely hindered efficiency and brand consistency.

Meliá partnered with Hootsuite to build an in-house social customer care team. Implementing Hootsuite's tools enabled Meliá to decrease response times from 24 hours to 12.4 hours while also leveraging smart automation.

In addition to that, Meliá resolved over 133,000 conversations, booking 330 inquiries per week through Hootsuite Inbox. They significantly improved brand consistency, response time and customer satisfaction.

The need for a good case study design cannot be over-emphasized.

As soon as anyone lands on this case study example, they are mesmerized by a beautiful case study design. This alone raises the interest of readers and keeps them engaged till the end.

If you’re currently saying to yourself, “ I can write great case studies, but I don’t have the time or skill to turn it into a beautiful document.” Say no more.

Visme’s amazing AI document generator can take your text and transform it into a stunning and professional document in minutes! Not only do you save time, but you also get inspired by the design.

With Visme’s document generator, you can create PDFs, case study presentations , infographics and more!

Take a look at this case study template below. Just like our case study example, it captures readers' attention with its beautiful design. Its dynamic blend of colors and fonts helps to segment each element of the case study beautifully.

12. Tea’s Me Cafe: Tamika Catchings is Brewing Glory

Tamika's journey began when she purchased Tea's Me Cafe in 2017, saving it from closure. She recognized the potential of the cafe as a community hub and hosted regular events centered on social issues and youth empowerment.

One of Tamika’s business goals was to automate her business. She sought to streamline business processes across various aspects of her business. One of the ways she achieves this goal is through Constant Contact.

Constant Contact became an integral part of Tamika's marketing strategy. They provided an automated and centralized platform for managing email newsletters, event registrations, social media scheduling and more.

This allowed Tamika and her team to collaborate efficiently and focus on engaging with their audience. They effectively utilized features like WooCommerce integration, text-to-join and the survey builder to grow their email list, segment their audience and gather valuable feedback.

The case study example utilizes the power of storytelling to form a connection with readers. Constant Contact takes a humble approach in this case study. They spotlight their customers' efforts as the reason for their achievements and growth, establishing trust and credibility.

This case study is also visually appealing, filled with high-quality photos of their customer. While this is a great way to foster originality, it can prove challenging if your customer sends you blurry or low-quality photos.

If you find yourself in that dilemma, you can use Visme’s AI image edit tool to touch up your photos. With Visme’s AI tool, you can remove unwanted backgrounds, erase unwanted objects, unblur low-quality pictures and upscale any photo without losing the quality.

Constant Contact offers its readers various formats to engage with their case study. Including an audio podcast and PDF.

In its PDF version, Constant Contact utilized its brand colors to create a stunning case study design.  With this, they increase brand awareness and, in turn, brand recognition with anyone who comes across their case study.

With Visme’s brand wizard tool , you can seamlessly incorporate your brand assets into any design or document you create. By inputting your URL, Visme’s AI integration will take note of your brand colors, brand fonts and more and create branded templates for you automatically.

You don't need to worry about spending hours customizing templates to fit your brand anymore. You can focus on writing amazing case studies that promote your company.

13. How Breakwater Kitchens Achieved a 7% Growth in Sales With Thryv

Breakwater Kitchens struggled with managing their business operations efficiently. They spent a lot of time on manual tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing client communication. This made it difficult for them to grow their business and provide the best possible service to their customers.

David, the owner, discovered Thryv. With Thryv, Breakwater Kitchens was able to automate many of their manual tasks. Additionally, Thryv integrated social media management. This enabled Breakwater Kitchens to deliver a consistent brand message, captivate its audience and foster online growth.

As a result, Breakwater Kitchens achieved increased efficiency, reduced missed appointments and a 7% growth in sales.

This case study example uses a concise format and strong verbs, which make it easy for readers to absorb the information.

At the top of the case study, Thryv immediately builds trust by presenting their customer's complete profile, including their name, company details and website. This allows potential customers to verify the case study's legitimacy, making them more likely to believe in Thryv's services.

However, manually copying and pasting customer information across multiple pages of your case study can be time-consuming.

To save time and effort, you can utilize Visme's dynamic field feature . Dynamic fields automatically insert reusable information into your designs.  So you don’t have to type it out multiple times.

14. Zoom’s Creative Team Saves Over 4,000 Hours With Brandfolder

Zoom experienced rapid growth with the advent of remote work and the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic. Such growth called for agility and resilience to scale through.

At the time, Zoom’s assets were disorganized which made retrieving brand information a burden. Zoom’s creative manager spent no less than 10 hours per week finding and retrieving brand assets for internal teams.

Zoom needed a more sustainable approach to organizing and retrieving brand information and came across Brandfolder. Brandfolder simplified and accelerated Zoom’s email localization and webpage development. It also enhanced the creation and storage of Zoom virtual backgrounds.

With Brandfolder, Zoom now saves 4,000+ hours every year. The company also centralized its assets in Brandfolder, which allowed 6,800+ employees and 20-30 vendors to quickly access them.

Brandfolder infused its case study with compelling data and backed it up with verifiable sources. This data-driven approach boosts credibility and increases the impact of their story.

Bradfolder's case study goes the extra mile by providing a downloadable PDF version, making it convenient for readers to access the information on their own time. Their dedication to crafting stunning visuals is evident in every aspect of the project.

From the vibrant colors to the seamless navigation, everything has been meticulously designed to leave a lasting impression on the viewer. And with clickable links that make exploring the content a breeze, the user experience is guaranteed to be nothing short of exceptional.

The thing is, your case study presentation won’t always sit on your website. There are instances where you may need to do a case study presentation for clients, partners or potential investors.

Visme has a rich library of templates you can tap into. But if you’re racing against the clock, Visme’s AI presentation maker is your best ally.

15. How Cents of Style Made $1.7M+ in Affiliate Sales with LeadDyno

Cents of Style had a successful affiliate and influencer marketing strategy. However, their existing affiliate marketing platform was not intuitive, customizable or transparent enough to meet the needs of their influencers.

Cents of Styles needed an easy-to-use affiliate marketing platform that gave them more freedom to customize their program and implement a multi-tier commission program.

After exploring their options, Cents of Style decided on LeadDyno.

LeadDyno provided more flexibility, allowing them to customize commission rates and implement their multi-tier commission structure, switching from monthly to weekly payouts.

Also, integrations with PayPal made payments smoother And features like newsletters and leaderboards added to the platform's success by keeping things transparent and engaging.

As a result, Cents of Style witnessed an impressive $1.7 million in revenue from affiliate sales with a substantial increase in web sales by 80%.

LeadDyno strategically placed a compelling CTA in the middle of their case study layout, maximizing its impact. At this point, readers are already invested in the customer's story and may be considering implementing similar strategies.

A well-placed CTA offers them a direct path to learn more and take action.

LeadDyno also utilized the power of quotes to strengthen their case study. They didn't just embed these quotes seamlessly into the text; instead, they emphasized each one with distinct blocks.

Are you looking for an easier and quicker solution to create a case study and other business documents? Try Visme's AI designer ! This powerful tool allows you to generate complete documents, such as case studies, reports, whitepapers and more, just by providing text prompts. Simply explain your requirements to the tool, and it will produce the document for you, complete with text, images, design assets and more.

Still have more questions about case studies? Let's look at some frequently asked questions.

How to Write a Case Study?

• Choose a compelling story: Not all case studies are created equal. Pick one that is relevant to your target audience and demonstrates the specific benefits of your product or service.
• Outline your case study: Create a case study outline and highlight how you will structure your case study to include the introduction, problem, solution and achievements of your customer.
• Choose a case study template: After you outline your case study, choose a case study template . Visme has stunning templates that can inspire your case study design.
• Craft a compelling headline: Include figures or percentages that draw attention to your case study.
• Work on the first draft: Your case study should be easy to read and understand. Use clear and concise language and avoid jargon.
• Include high-quality visual aids: Visuals can help to make your case study more engaging and easier to read. Consider adding high-quality photos, screenshots or videos.
• Include a relevant CTA: Tell prospective customers how to reach you for questions or sign-ups.

What Are the Stages of a Case Study?

The stages of a case study are;

• Planning & Preparation: Highlight your goals for writing the case study. Plan the case study format, length and audience you wish to target.
• Interview the Client: Reach out to the company you want to showcase and ask relevant questions about their journey and achievements.
• Revision & Editing: Review your case study and ask for feedback. Include relevant quotes and CTAs to your case study.
• Publication & Distribution: Publish and share your case study on your website, social media channels and email list!
• Marketing & Repurposing: Turn your case study into a podcast, PDF, case study presentation and more. Share these materials with your sales and marketing team.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Case Study?

Advantages of a case study:

• Case studies showcase a specific solution and outcome for specific customer challenges.
• It attracts potential customers with similar challenges.
• It builds trust and credibility with potential customers.
• It provides an in-depth analysis of your company’s problem-solving process.

Disadvantages of a case study:

• Limited applicability. Case studies are tailored to specific cases and may not apply to other businesses.
• It relies heavily on customer cooperation and willingness to share information.
• It stands a risk of becoming outdated as industries and customer needs evolve.

What Are the Types of Case Studies?

There are 7 main types of case studies. They include;

• Illustrative case study.
• Instrumental case study.
• Intrinsic case study.
• Descriptive case study.
• Explanatory case study.
• Exploratory case study.
• Collective case study.

How Long Should a Case Study Be?

The ideal length of your case study is between 500 - 1500 words or 1-3 pages. Certain factors like your target audience, goal or the amount of detail you want to share may influence the length of your case study. This infographic has powerful tips for designing winning case studies

What Is the Difference Between a Case Study and an Example?

Case studies provide a detailed narrative of how your product or service was used to solve a problem. Examples are general illustrations and are not necessarily real-life scenarios.

Case studies are often used for marketing purposes, attracting potential customers and building trust. Examples, on the other hand, are primarily used to simplify or clarify complex concepts.

Where Can I Find Case Study Examples?

You can easily find many case study examples online and in industry publications. Many companies, including Visme, share case studies on their websites to showcase how their products or services have helped clients achieve success. You can also search online libraries and professional organizations for case studies related to your specific industry or field.

If you need professionally-designed, customizable case study templates to create your own, Visme's template library is one of the best places to look. These templates include all the essential sections of a case study and high-quality content to help you create case studies that position your business as an industry leader.

Get More Out Of Your Case Studies With Visme

Case studies are an essential tool for converting potential customers into paying customers. By following the tips in this article, you can create compelling case studies that will help you build trust, establish credibility and drive sales.

Visme can help you create stunning case studies and other relevant marketing materials. With our easy-to-use platform, interactive features and analytics tools , you can increase your content creation game in no time.

There is no limit to what you can achieve with Visme. Connect with Sales to discover how Visme can boost your business goals.

Easily create beautiful case studies and more with Visme

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• Open access
• Published: 29 August 2024

The impact of COVID-19 on livelihood assets: a case study of high-value crop farmers in North-West Bangladesh

• Umme Salma 1 ,
• Mohammad Jahangir Alam 1 ,
• Ismat Ara Begum 2 ,
• Md Abdur Rouf Sarkar 3 , 4 ,
• Tamara Jackson 5 ,
• Tamanna Mastura 1 ,
• Md. Salauddin Palash 1 ,
• Andrew M. McKenzie 6 &
• Avinash Kishore 7  

Scientific Reports volume  14 , Article number:  20121 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

• Socioeconomic scenarios
• Sustainability

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic impact on public health, extending to the food system and people's livelihoods worldwide, including Bangladesh. This study aimed to ascertain the COVID-19 pandemic impacts on livelihood assets in the North-Western areas (Rajshahi and Rangpur) of Bangladesh. Primary data were collected from 320 farmers engaged in high-value agriculture using a multistage sampling method. The data were analysed using first-order structural equation modelling. The findings reveal a significant impact (p < 0.01) of the pandemic on all livelihood assets in Bangladesh. Notably, human assets exhibited the highest impact, with a coefficient of 0.740, followed sequentially by financial (0.709), social (0.684), natural (0.600), physical (0.542), and psychological (0.537) assets. Government-imposed lockdowns and mobility restrictions were identified as the major causes of the pandemic's negative effects on livelihoods, which included lost income, rising food prices, decreased purchasing power, inadequate access to food and medical supplies, increased social insecurity, and a rise in depression, worry, and anxiety among farmers. The effects of COVID-19 and associated policy measures on the livelihoods of high-value crop farmers have reversed substantial economic and nutritional advances gained over the previous decade. This study suggests attention to the sustainable livelihoods of farmers through direct cash transfer and input incentive programs to minimize their vulnerability to a pandemic like COVID-19 or any other crisis in the future.

Introduction

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, emerged as a threat to public health around the world, and on March 11, 2020, it was declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization 1 . In Bangladesh, the disease was first detected on March 7, 2020 2 . Bangladesh experienced its 1st phase of lockdown in March–May 2020, drastically disrupted food value chains by restricting the movement of people and commodities. This distribution led to growing rates of food loss and waste, supply chain disruption, and declining product demand 2 . Globally, food insecurity rose due to the disruption of supply chains, resulting in prices and production costs 3 .

The COVID-19 pandemic presents an opportunity to study a severe shock to food systems and underscores the importance of access to livelihood assets in buffering against such shocks. Livelihood assets refer to the resources and capabilities that individuals and communities possess, influencing their ability to cope with stresses and shocks and to recover and maintain their livelihoods sustainably 4 , 5 . People in developing nations rely on a variety of resources, including capital and assets, to support their daily lives. Five subsistence assets—natural, physical, financial, human, and social—are used to classify livelihood assets 6 . Psychological factors were added based on the COVID-19 pandemic situation. These assets play an important role in the survival of sustainable rural and urban livelihoods 7 . Not all shocks are anticipated to have the same impact on assets and outcomes related to livelihoods, but shocks such as the pandemic can undermine some or all assets and have a detrimental impact on livelihoods 8 .

The COVID-19 has profoundly affected various aspects of life globally. Previous outbreaks, such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Ebola, have been extensively studied and have shown to significantly disrupt agricultural labor and output 9 , 10 , 11 . The substantial impacts of COVID-19 on agriculture underscore the importance of a sustainable livelihood strategy that considers different capital assets—natural, economic, financial, human, and social 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 . The multidimensional effects of the epidemic on employment, food availability, and market dynamics have resulted in significant food insecurity for daily wage workers 18 , 19 , 20 . Due to COVID-19, there have been substantial disruptions in agricultural productivity and food value chains, as identified in prior research. Due to labor shortages, transportation restrictions, and difficulties in obtaining agricultural inputs have led to increased production costs 21 , 22 . Farmers also encountered challenges in harvesting crops and transporting products to the market, resulted in higher food transportation costs 23 . Labor shortages, further impeded productivity and market access was restricted for sellers and purchasers due to travel restrictions 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 . Furthermore, financial challenges faced by farmers were exacerbated by a decrease in consumer demand for perishables, price increases, and reduced earnings among informal laborers 28 , 29 .

This study focuses on farmers engaged in the production of high-value agriculture, such as vegetables. In general, agricultural products that are eaten either fresh or processed and have a substantially higher value (per weight or unit) in the market are considered high-value agriculture 30 . In developing countries like Bangladesh, high-value agricultural practices are important to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDG), particularly SDG 2.3, which describes 2030 as a doubling of the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers 31 . Previous studies have examined the impact of COVID-19 on rural livelihood, food safety, dietary diversity, and food security 18 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 . However, no systematic study has been found concerning how the pandemic impacted the livelihood assets of farmers engaged in high-value agriculture.

The study was conducted in four districts of the North-Western (NW) region of Bangladesh, a region with considerable agricultural significance and vulnerability to natural and socioeconomic challenges. The decision to focus on this region was based on its diverse livelihoods, potential for policy impact, and the need to address existing research gaps. Farmers in this region continuously fight against natural disasters, illiteracy, and other development problems 38 . This study offers several novel aspects. Unlike past research focusing on individual aspects of livelihood and farming systems individually, particularly either economic well-being or social aspects 32 , 36 , 37 , 39 , 40 , this study examines the impact of COVID-19 on six dimensions of livelihood assets (financial, social, human, natural, physical, and psychological factors) combined, providing more robust findings. Additionally, this study specifically focuses on high-value crops, which are crucial for commercial farming, whereas other studies broadly focus on farming systems. Conducted in 2022, the study generates more robust, longer-term findings compared to studies conducted immediately after the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 2 , 18 , 19 , 32 , 33 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 39 , 40 , 41 , 42 . Finally, the use of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed in this study for research hypotheses testing since it is more robust than other studies using the OLS model or qualitative approaches 43 . The key methodological strength of this study is the application of first-order SEM to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on livelihood assets. SEM enables the analysis of complex relationships between observed and latent variables, facilitating a more nuanced comprehension of the interrelations and impacts of various dimensions of livelihood assets during the pandemic.

As the global food systems have been significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in intensified food insecurity, it is essential to comprehend the effects to develop strategies that will improve the sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems and livelihoods, particularly in developing countries such as Bangladesh. The study offers a comprehensive evaluation of the pandemic's effects on six dimensions of livelihood assets among high-value crop farmers, providing critical insights for policymakers to develop evidence-based recommendations for targeted interventions. This research provides critical insights into the multifaceted impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on high-value crop producers in Bangladesh, thereby facilitating the creation of more sustainable and resilient food systems. The findings are especially pertinent for policymakers, as they offer evidence-based recommendations for targeted interventions that can improve the resilience of rural communities and ensure food security. This study contributes valuable knowledge to the existing body of research by addressing a research gap on the pandemic's impact on high-value crop producers.

The paper is divided into six sections. The literature review is presented in Section " Literature review ", followed by the methodology in Section " Methodology ". Section " Results " presents the results, whereas Section " Discussion " presents the discussion. Conclusions and policy recommendations are presented in the final section.

Literature review

In Bangladesh, approximately 16.2 million farm households, predominantly smallholders (with 0.05–2.49 acres of land), engage in commercial vegetable production, utilizing approximately 2.63% of the total cultivable land 44 . While the immediate consequences of COVID-19 were widely felt 21 , on-farm challenges also emerged. Assessment of agricultural inputs became more difficult, leading to increased production costs alongside labor shortages and transportation hurdles. Farmers experienced obstacles in harvesting crops or transporting goods to markets due to mobility restrictions 22 . The reduced number of vehicles on the road contributed to heightened food transportation costs 23 . Labor shortages further hampered agricultural productivity, while travel restrictions constrained access to markets for both sellers and buyers 24 . Although there was a surplus of physical labor due to the return of migrant workers from other countries and unemployed urban workers to rural areas, restrictions on the movement of migrant workers resulted in labor shortage 25 , 26 , 27 .

In addition to production issues, farmers encountered market challenges stemming from a decrease in consumer demand for goods, especially perishables. High-value agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, milk, and eggs, which typically have strong income elasticities, experienced substantial declines in demand due to reduced earnings among non-salaried informal workers and price hikes, particularly in metropolitan areas 28 . As consumer demand dwindled, supply disruptions persisted, forcing farmers to sell below cost and leading to significant financial hardships 29 .

These production disruptions are not unique to the COVID-19 pandemic but have been observed in both emerging and industrialized nations during previous epidemics. Diseases like Ebola, MERS, and SARS primarily disrupted food systems in the regions where they occurred 9 . By affecting agricultural labor forces and hindering other input factors 10 , these diseases significantly reduced agricultural production 11 . Similarly, COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the agricultural production industry, which serves as the cornerstone of the food system.

The sustainable livelihoods approach offers a framework for understanding the purpose, significance, and dimensions of human development 12 . It encompasses various forms of capital, including natural, economic, financial, human, and social, all of which contribute to sustainable livelihoods. Natural capital refers to the ownership or shared management of natural resources such as climate, soil fertility, and water sources, which are essential for production 13 . Human capital encompasses all human potential that enables individuals to pursue various livelihood activities and achieve communal objectives 14 . Physical capital comprises infrastructure and means of production necessary to support livelihoods 15 . Social capital emerges from social organizations and encompasses characteristics like trust, norms, and collaboration, which can strengthen society by promoting coordination and cooperation for various benefits 16 . Financial assets indicate access to different resources, particularly savings and loans 17 . Both direct loans and savings serve as forms of productive capital that can be converted into other types of capital or utilized for immediate consumption.

COVID-19 had a profound impact on rural livelihoods, manifesting in several ways 19 , 20 . For example, many individuals lost their jobs due to regulations on social interactions, self-imposed isolation, and travel restrictions. Additionally, panic buying resulted in unpredictable food supplies. The significant disruptions to the agriculture industry led to severe food shortages, lower wages and significant food insecurity among Bangladesh's daily wage workers, who comprise one-third of the labor force 18 . Labour shortages affected agricultural production, while travel restrictions constrained access to markets for both buyers and sellers 24 . Consequently, prices for agricultural products initially surged in local marketplaces due to a lack of consumers and dealers before subsequently plummeting, particularly for perishable goods like vegetables and fish 42 .

Previous research indicates that COVID-19 significantly disrupted households’ ability to access adequate food, with 82.5% of respondents expressing concerns about food security, rising costs, and disruptions in local markets 36 . The pandemic also had adverse effects on agricultural production, sales, prices, and income, with over 80% of farms experiencing sales declines and 20% faced severe losses, while 90% reported price reductions 39 . The vulnerability of households to the COVID-19 outbreak encompasses social, economic, human, physical, and psychological dimensions, which significantly impact their resilience 40 . The diverse impacts of shocks on rural households highlight the disparities in their capital assets and subsistence strategies, influencing their ability to recover from market or natural shocks 45 . For rural households with limited access to natural resources, procuring food and accumulating other assets becomes challenging, exacerbating vulnerabilities 46 . Furthermore, the trauma experienced during crises can lead people to rely more heavily on their social networks for support 47 . Shocks such as epidemics can severely impact various livelihood assets (financial, social, human, physical, and natural assets), as evidenced by the negative effects of Ebola on home crop production in Liberia, exacerbating food insecurity 48 . While previous studies have addressed the impacts of epidemics and COVID-19 on individual aspects of livelihoods and farming systems, our research offers a comprehensive perspective by examining the combined vulnerability of six dimensions of livelihood assets (financial, social, human, physical, natural, and psychological assets). By including psychological assets our study acknowledges the holistic nature of livelihood vulnerability, recognizing that mental well-being influences and interacts with traditional livelihood assets. This comprehensive approach enables a more accurate assessment of the multifaceted impacts of COVID-19 on people's lives and livelihoods.

Methodology

The selection of the NW region of Bangladesh for this study was deliberate, considering its significant cultivation of high-value crops and prevalent poverty conditions, particularly exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rural livelihoods in these regions rely heavily on high-value agriculture, making them vital study areas. Additionally, the NW region is susceptible to natural disasters, further complicating the socio-economic landscape. The pandemic exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, pushing households deeper into poverty 49 . The study focused on four districts within the NW region: Dinajpur, Rangpur, Bogura, and Pabna (see Fig.  1 ) chosen in collaboration with the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE).

Study area. The authors used ArcGIS 10.8 ( https://www.arcgis.com/index.html ) to produce the map, employing the administrative shapefile of Bangladesh in the process. Shapefile republished from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) database ( http://maps.barcapps.gov.bd/index.php ) under a CC BY license, with permission from Computer and GIS unit, BARC, original copyright 2014.

The mWater surveyor app was used to conduct direct interviews using a structured questionnaire for the collection of primary data. A total of 320 farmers, 80 from each district, were surveyed from eight upazilas in four districts of the North-West region, employing a multistage sampling technique (Table 1 ). Initially, the selection of the four districts in our study was based on their prominence in high-value crop farming within the North-West region. In this study, two Upazilas were purposively selected from each district to capture the geographic and socioeconomic diversity within the districts, ensuring a comprehensive representation of different agricultural practices and livelihood conditions. Subsequently, farmers were randomly selected by drawing numbers from a compiled list of high-value vegetable growers, provided by the Sub-Assistant Agricultural Officer of the DAE from the respective agricultural blocks. An equal sample size of 40 participants per Upazila was adopted to ensure statistical consistency and enable reliable comparative analysis across Upazilas, thereby enhancing the robustness of our findings.

The total sample size was determined using the following formula 50 .

where p is the predicted proportion of respondents and n is the sample size, the p-value of 0.50 was utilized to obtain the greatest number of respondents. The acceptable margin of error is represented by e, which is equal to 0.06, and Z stands for standard error for a 95% confidence level. So, the sample size would be,

Although the estimator suggested a sample size of 266, we selected to survey 320 farming households from four districts in Bangladesh to reduce the margin of error by an additional 20%. Farmers from the study area were selected using simple random sampling. These individuals, known as high-value agricultural producers, specialize in cultivating crops such as brinjal, pointed gourd, beans, cabbage, cauliflower, tomato, carrot, and bottle gourd.

The survey was conducted between May and June 2022, relying on respondents’ memories for data for 2019 and 2022. This sample had been used previously somewhere else. A structured questionnaire was designed (as detailed in Supplementary file 2 ), covering demographic characteristics, livelihood assets, and psychological factors of high-value crop farming. Equal weight was given to each of the six livelihood diversification options when selecting responses. The questionnaire underwent pre-testing by the authors before being finalized. The study did not use the pre-tested data in the analysis. Data collection was conducted via face-to-face interviews using the finalised questionnaire, which was exported to the mWater portal, a web-based digital data collection tool.

In this study, we examine the impact of COVID-19 on the assets of high-value crop farmers in Bangladesh's NW region using a reflecting model. Reflective models are applicable when indicators represent underlying latent constructs, meaning changes in the latent variable are mirrored in changes in the indicators 51 . The financial, social, physical, human, natural, and psychological resources examined in this study are considered reflective, as they are expected to adapt to changes in the underlying latent concept of livelihood impact.

The collected primary data were used to assess the impact of COVID-19 on livelihood assets. First-order partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was applied to determine these impacts using SmartPLS 4 software 52 . Structural equation modelling is a hypothesis testing method that evaluates whether the indicators accurately measure latent variables. As latent variables cannot be directly measured, they are inferred from the observable. Due to its flexibility in modelling complex interactions without making rigid assumptions about data distribution, PLS-SEM is well suited for this purpose. It is particularly useful for analyzing data from small samples providing valid findings 43 .

Figure  2 presents the conceptual model linking the relationship between six livelihood factors and COVID-19 impacts. Twenty-seven statements were constructed to define six livelihood assets (see Appendix Table 1 ). The scales and attributes were derived from previous research 5 , and these were tailored to the context of vulnerable livelihood assets in Bangladesh. Farmers responses to these statements were collected using a five-point Likert scale (1 = very low to 5 = very high). COVID-19 was treated as a dependent variable, categorised as 0 = before COVID-19 and 1 = during COVID-19. The study identified five categories of assets: natural, physical, financial, human, and social 6 . These assets play a vital role in survival strategies for rural and urban livelihoods 7 . Additionally, psychological assets, such as fear of infection, social tensions, and depression, were considered due to the pandemic's profound effect on mental health and well-being. The capacity of farmers to manage tension and anxiety became an integral component of their overall vulnerability. Psychological vulnerability (defined as PhAV) was added based on the COVID-19 pandemic when anxiety, worry, and depression were high among the farmers 53 . Financial assets were chosen as indicators to capture the pandemic's economic effects. Farmers were expected to experience income loss, increased food prices diminished purchasing power, and unemployment as a result of the pandemic. Financial asset vulnerabilities (FAV) indicate income loss, decreased purchasing power, increased food prices, unemployment, poverty, and inequality. Social resources that people utilize to support their livelihoods are referred to as social property because they are part of a network of social ties between individuals or groups 54 . Farmers frequently communicate face-to-face with friends and family members to demonstrate their skills and knowledge of agricultural operations 55 . Social assets were chosen as indicators due to their involvement in crisis resilience 56 . It was anticipated that the pandemic's impact on social interactions, trust in information sources, and social insecurity would hinder farmers' ability to respond to the crisis' challenges. Social asset vulnerability (SAV) encompasses trust among individuals, social solidarity, trust in media information, changes in traditions and customs, and social insecurity. Given the threat posed by the pandemic to public health, assessing the vulnerability of human assets becomes crucial. Anticipated outcomes of the pandemic, such as the closure of educational institutions, limited access to medical services, and psychological distress, could significantly impact high-value crop producers. Human assets vulnerability (HAV) is therefore characterised by factors such as the closure of educational institutions, inadequate access to medical staff, and insufficient health information and counselling services. Physical assets typically encompass essential amenities and infrastructure supporting agricultural production and livelihoods such as tractors, water supply canals, and roads. Disruptions in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have limited access to vital agricultural inputs and equipment. Understanding the pandemic’s impact on agricultural productivity necessitates a thorough evaluation of physical assets vulnerability. (PAV), which includes factors like inadequate access to pharmaceutical items, limited availability of disinfectants and detergents, and a shortage of reliable resources providing information about COVID-19 treatment. Natural assets refer to the natural properties relied upon for survival and progress. Disruptions to farming operations, brought about by the pandemic, are of utmost importance, as they can significantly affect farmers' ability to sustain themselves. Natural assets vulnerability (NAV) encompasses delays in agricultural activities, underutilization of natural and recreational resources, decreased agricultural outputs, and farmers’ hesitancy to plan crop production 55 , 57 . Detailed descriptions of these assets are provided in Appendix Table 1 .

A conceptual model.

To estimate the impacts of COVID-19 on different livelihood assets, we constructed and estimated the following six equations (Eqs. 1 – 6 ),

These conceptual equations illustrate our aim to estimate the impacts of COVID-19 on various livelihood assets. The following six hypotheses were formulated to support the above six equations:

H 1  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of financial assets.

H 2  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of social assets.

H 3  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of human assets.

H 4  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of physical assets.

H 5  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of natural assets.

H 6  = The COVID-19 has a substantial impact on the vulnerability of psychological assets.

As a result, three steps were taken to ensure the precision of the measurement model: (1) Model dependability and validity, (2) Uni-dimensionality, and (3) Diagnostic analysis, all of which were applied to the effect of COVID-19 on means of subsistence.

In assessing reliability, indicators are evaluated based on their consistency in measuring a particular component. When the construct explains more than 50% of the variation of the indicator, as is the case when loading is above 0.60, the indicator is said to have a satisfactory level of dependability 58 . When evaluating reliability, a higher score is better. Reliability levels that are “acceptable to good” are explained by results between 0.70 and 0.95. Next, the average extracted variance was used to determine the convergent validity (AVE). The AVE must be 0.50 or greater to be considered valid, meaning that the construct must account for (at least) 50% of the variance of its elements. Assessing the discriminant validity is the final stage. Finally, discriminant validity is assessed using Fornell–Larcker's criterion, which examines correlations between constructs. The suggested threshold is a value of the Fornell–Larcker criterion of 0.90.

Ethical approval

This study received approval from the Research Ethics Committee of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh (BAU-REC-2022-102) on April 20, 2022. The study was performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants and the questionnaires were anonymized to protect their privacy. Participants were also given the option to decline participation in the survey if they chose to do so.

Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents

Farmers' socio-demographic characteristics are explained in Table 2 . The average age of the respondents during COVID-19 was 44.26 years. The mean household size was around five members. About 80% of farmers had various levels of literacy, ranging from primary to upper education. The results also demonstrate a decrease in the average total income of agricultural households during the pandemic. Specifically, the average income from vegetable cultivation decreased by 6,477 Taka, leading to reductions in expenditure. To cope with the income loss, farmers reduced their meals, resulting in an average reduction of 2,197 Taka in monthly household expenditure.

Each latent variable was operationalized through several indicators (as detailed in Appendix Table 1 ). Financial and social assets were represented by five indicators each; while natural assets had three indicators. Physical, human assets and psychological factors were represented by four indicators. The relationships between the latent variables and their respective indicators are presented in Table 3 .

The findings revealed that the scores assigned to all assessed indicators of financial asset vulnerability ranged above three, indicating high to very high response. The pandemic had a significant income and purchasing power, leading to increased food prices, and reduced employment opportunities, and decreased incomes. Consequently, farmers had to reduce their expenditures by rationing basic needs such as food. The analysis also revealed a notable level of financial stress, as individuals had to ration food to accommodate other necessities.

An inverse relationship was found to exist between farmers’ investments in social assets and vulnerability. Some highlighted outcomes included social distrust, particularly within communities and towards national information resources, erosion of social cohesion and solidarity, as well as heightened social vulnerability. Many of these changes were attributed to social distancing measures and restrictions on gatherings, which hindered relationships that typically offer social support.

Overall, human assets remained more vulnerable in specific areas, including education and health sectors. School closings disrupted children’s education and hindered the long-term development of human capital. Additionally, inadequate access to medical services and health information complicated households' ability to manage their health during the pandemic. Health concerns and mobility limitations also reduced labour availability, leading to lower agricultural output.

Farmers faced significant challenges in obtaining essential goods and/or services such as disinfectants, sanitary products, and medications. Delays in planting and harvesting were common due to labour shortages and movement restrictions. Market access was also restricted, affected the physical transportation of goods, which further strained physical resources.

Another example of the vulnerability of natural assets was seen in the postponement of the farming seasons, resulting in reduced production and efficiency. Farmers hesitated to invest in the next planting season due to uncertainty. Input constraints and limited extension services, crucial for managing natural resources, resulted in inefficient use of the resources.

The study also demonstrated that farmers experienced adverse effects on their psychological health due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The uncertainty and health risks posed by the epidemic increased the prevalence of depression and anxiety. Farmers grappled with the social and economic consequences, which led to heightened social tensions and frustrations. Coping strategies, including reduced food intake and increased reliance on social support networks, were employed to deal with the stress of revenue loss and changed behaviours.

Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)

The structure of factors was assessed using CFA, which relied on factor loadings to test the validity of the factors. The threshold values for combined reliability, Cronbach’s α coefficient, and average extracted variance for each structure in the intended model were greater than 0.60, 0.70, and 0.50, respectively. The reliability and validity of all the latent variables are shown in Table 4 .

We found that the factor loading values of SAV3 and HAV1 were less than 0.70. Given that the factor loadings did not exceed the cut-off, this suggests that these two factors were invalid. Besides, the coefficient of determination (CR) and Cronbach α were used to determine the latent constructs’ reliability. Thus, the measurement model findings show that for all the latent variables, the least value of Cronbach's alpha and CR was larger than 0.70. Furthermore, all AVE values were above 0.50, indicating convergent validity. After excluding the two invalid factors (SAV3 and HAV1), the convergent validity and reliability were re-estimated.

Since all the factor loadings exceeded the cut-off, we concluded that none of the factors were invalid (Table 4 ). Therefore, the results of the measurement model indicate that all the minimum values of Cronbach’s α and CR were greater than 0.70, suggesting that all the constructs were statistically reliable. The relationship between the variables is instead determined using convergent validity 59 . Convergent validity was assessed using the same study, which gave the AVE threshold of 0.50. As the lowest validity was determined to be 0.561, which exceeded 0.50, the results suggest that all the latent constructs have acceptable convergent validity.

The predictive value of the model was assessed using the R-square value. The R-square values indicate that the variance in COVID-19 explained 49.6%, 46.6%, 54.2%, 29.3%, 35.8%, and 28.6% in financial, social, human, physical, natural, and psychological assets vulnerability, respectively.

Assessment of discriminant validity

The Fornell–Larcker criterion was applied to evaluate discriminant validity by establishing the degree to which one latent concept is distinguishable from the other. The study claimed that 0.90 is the highest figure appropriate in this case. Consequently, none of the connections had a value greater than 0.90 (Table 5 ), showing that no violation of the discriminant validity assumption occurred.

Path coefficient assessment

The study utilised bootstrapping (5,000 iterations), a resampling approach, to assess the importance of each component in explaining the others. The path coefficient results are presented in Table 6 .

We find that the impact of COVID-19 on all livelihood assets was statistically significant at 1% (Table 6 ). Figure  1 in the appendix presents the outcomes of the path model. All latent variables were significantly affected by COVID-19 (financial assets, social assets, human assets, physical assets, natural assets, and psychological factors). The p-values and standardized regression coefficients are presented in the numbers on the path relationships. The p-values were less than 0.01 for all latent variables, indicating significance at the 1% level. On the other hand, the values from latent variables to indicators imply the relationship between indicators and latent variables. For all the indicators, the p-values were less than 0.01, indicating significance at the 1% level. This suggests that all the indicators were related to the latent variables.

We discovered that COVID-19 had the greatest effect on financial assets (coefficient = 0.709; p-value < 0.01). The positive effect indicates that income and purchasing power were reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic due to inflated food prices, decreased employment opportunities, and increased costs of rural households. Additionally, COVID-19 had a statistically significant and positive effect on social assets (coefficient = 0.684, p-value < 0.01), indicating that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people's trust in each other declined, social solidarity diminished, and the level of social insecurity increased. The lowest impact of COVID-19 was on human assets (coefficient = 0.740, p-value < 0.01), which implies the COVID-19 pandemic forced educational institutions to close, there was a lack of adequate health information and a lack of adequate medical staff. COVID-19 affected physical assets significantly and positively (coefficient = 0.542, p-value < 0.01), showing that the COVID-19 pandemic reduced sufficient access to pharmaceutical items, disinfectants, sanitary detergents, and reliable medical information. Furthermore, COVID-19 had a statistically significant and favourable influence on natural assets (coefficient = 0.600, p-value < 0.01), indicating that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, farming activities (fertilization, harvesting etc.) were delayed, agricultural output decreased, and farmers were reluctant to plan to grow their crops. COVID-19 also had a significant and positive impact on psychological factors (coefficient = 0.537, p-value < 0.01), indicating that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, farmers were worried about getting COVID-19, social tensions were high, and depression and disappointment increased. The impact of COVID-19 was less on physical assets and psychological assets compared to other assets.

The impact of COVID-19 on assets used for sustaining livelihoods has been thoroughly examined. According to the path analysis, COVID-19 had a substantial influence on all categories, including financial, social, physical, human, natural, and psychological assets. This is consistent with most earlier studies, which have also observed a strong influence of COVID-19 on rural livelihoods 5 . Figure  3 illustrates the significant impact of COVID-19 on the assets supporting the livelihoods of farmers engaged in high-value agriculture in the NW regions of Bangladesh.

TreeMap illustrates the consequences of COVID-19 on six livelihood domains. Note: The number in the figure shows the percentage of farmers who ‘agreed’ to ‘strongly agreed’ with the statement.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been found to have a statistically significant and considerable effect on the vulnerability of financial assets within the high-value crop farming sector. According to our findings, 91.3% of farmers believed that the COVID-19 pandemic had decreased income and purchasing power in rural households. Similar results were reported by Kundu et al. 34 . Additionally, around 78% of farmers concurred that the pandemic had led to an increase in food prices 60 . This rise in food costs forced many farmers to go without eating, contributing to widespread malnutrition. Moreover, approximately, 77.5% of farmers stated that rural household employment had decreased due to the pandemic, a trend confirmed by Mandal et al. 61 . Many rural residents feared that poverty and inequality would worsen if the pandemic persisted, with 86.3% of farmers holding this view 62 . Additionally, about 71% of farmers believed that the COVID-19 epidemic was responsible for rising living expenses 63 . These findings highlight the tangible negative impact of the pandemic on the economic dimensions of the farmers’ livelihoods. Farmers faced a decline in income, a reduction in their ability to purchase goods and services, and an increased susceptibility to financial risks, attributed to factors such as escalation of food prices and disruptions in the economy.

School dropout became a significant challenge in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic due to various factors, including limited internet access in rural areas, a lack of electronic devices, high costs of internet, early marriage and maternal age, prolonged closures of educational institutions, and inadequate teacher preparation for online learning 64 . Over 95% of farmers agreed that the pandemic had contributed to increased school dropout rates due to limited access to educational facilities 65 . Additionally, 70.6% of farmers agreed that the scarcity of medical personnel and lack of healthcare information in rural areas had heightened the risk of COVID-19 infection 66 . These findings suggest that the pandemic had significant implications for both the physical and mental well-being of farmers. The closure of educational institutions, limited access to medical services, and heightened psychological distress underscored the diverse impact on human and psychological resources.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected social assets, with evidence pointing to decreased social solidarity (60%), reduced social trust (59.4%), and increased social insecurity (48.4%), findings that align with those of De Vos 9 . Furthermore, a majority of farmers (80.9%) reported heightened vulnerability to psychological disorders, such as anxiety, stress, and disappointment 67 . These observations highlight the profound impact of the pandemic on the social fabric and mental health of farmers. Challenges in maintaining social bonds, accessing reliable information sources, and managing escalating social tensions and feelings of insecurity have become prevalent. This underscores the societal and psychological consequences of the pandemic on individuals' livelihoods.

Approximately 26.6% of farmers acknowledged that various agricultural activities, such as harvesting and fertilizing, were disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic 68 . Additionally, around 30% of farmers agreed that the rural community struggled to fully comply with quarantine and health standards due to existing facilities and physical layout constraints 69 . As a result, agricultural production declined (23.5% responses), and farmers hesitated to plan future crop cultivation (30.4% responses) 70 . These findings underscore the pandemic’s adverse effects on agricultural productivity, as farmers encountered difficulties accessing essential inputs and infrastructure 37 . This highlights the pressing challenges in safeguarding physical and natural assets amid the crisis.

Our results align with previous research highlighting the significant impact of COVID-19 on rural livelihoods. Consistent with Kundu et al. 34 we observed a decrease in income and purchasing power among rural households. Similarly, our findings of rising food prices and resulting malnutrition corroborate those of Rabbi et al. 60 . However, our study identifies distinct causal factors contributing to these impacts. Disruptions of supply chains and reduced labor availability due to mobility restrictions directly affected agricultural productivity and income. Moreover, financial vulnerabilities were compounded by issues with market access, highlighting the interdependent nature of these factors. By focusing on high-value crop farmers, our study provides new insights into specific vulnerabilities within this subgroup, despite the overall consistency with existing research.

In a nutshell, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the ability of individuals to maintain their livelihoods, ranging from significant to extreme. The confirmation of all hypotheses underscores the extensive influence of the pandemic on various aspects of high-value crop farmers' livelihoods. Given the heterogeneous nature of these impacts, policymakers must be mindful and develop pro-poor strategies to enhance crisis-resilience capacity, particularly targeting the most vulnerable farm households in Bangladesh.

Practical implications

While it is true that the government of Bangladesh has taken proactive measures to address the challenges posed by COVID-19 in the agricultural sector 2 , 71 , it is important to note that the situation remains dynamic. Ongoing research can play a vital role in shaping policy-making in several ways. The broad impact of COVID-19 on farmers’ livelihoods highlights the need for comprehensive, multifaceted policy interventions. By addressing the specific vulnerabilities and underlying causes identified in this study, policymakers can bolster the resilience of rural livelihoods against future crises.

Firstly, our current research provides a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on livelihood assets, specifically focusing on high-value crop farmers. By quantifying the extent of the pandemic's impact on various assets related to vulnerability, such as human, financial, social, natural, physical, and psychological, our study offers a nuanced understanding of the lingering effects that may not have been fully addressed yet. Secondly, while the government has prioritized the cultivation and export of high-value vegetables 42 , 72 , our research can identify gaps in these policies and shed light on potential vulnerabilities that might still exist within the sector. For instance, our findings highlight the significance of different asset categories, with financial assets being the most impacted. This emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and support mechanisms, such as access to low-interest loans or financial aid, which can further strengthen the resilience of high-value crop farmers. On the other hand, to enhance the accessibility of healthcare and education services in rural areas, policymakers must prioritize investments in digital infrastructure. The healthcare infrastructure must be fortified to mitigate the psychological distress and health risks that producers encounter. Local governance structures and community-based organizations should be instrumental in the development of trust and social cohesion. Furthermore, our research underscores the role of mobility restrictions and lockdowns as factors affecting livelihoods. As these measures could potentially recur in response to various shocks, including new variants or future pandemics, our study offers insights into strategies that can minimize disruptions. Proposing the establishment of a well-structured online marketplace for agricultural products and exploring labor-efficient farming techniques could mitigate the negative consequences of movement restrictions.

In summary, while initial policy responses have been implemented, our current research contributes by providing a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 on high-value crop farmers' livelihoods. By identifying areas of vulnerability and proposing targeted strategies to enhance resilience, our findings can assist policymakers in refining and adapting their approach to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital sector in the face of evolving challenges.

Conclusion, policy recommendations, and limitations

The study's findings revealed a significant impact of COVID-19 on all categories of assets crucial for sustaining livelihoods. The pandemic and associated governmental restrictions notably affected rural Bangladeshi livelihoods, primarily stemming from lockdowns, mobility limitations, and the repercussions of lost income, rising food prices, and diminished purchasing power. Farm households in a developing country like Bangladesh encounter multifaceted challenges. The unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 situation led to major disruptions in production and marketing activities, income reduction, increase in food prices, and job losses among high-value crop farmers, exacerbating long-term vulnerability.

The impact of COVID-19 on financial assets has been profound, creating economic pressure and disrupted the livelihood conditions of farmers. Urgent policy considerations are essential for their recovery. The interdependence of economic, institutional, and social ties within food systems underscores the need for comprehensive interventions. Movement restrictions during the pandemic severely curtailed farmers' access to markets, necessitating the development of a robust online marketplace to mitigate such disruptions, especially considering the perishable nature of agricultural commodities. To address the decrease in both farm and off-farm income and the rise in family expenditure, farmers require easy access to low-interest loans. Government input assistance programs should prioritise agribusiness production, incorporating labor-saving farming techniques and productivity-boosting technologies. Access to food, both physically and financially, is crucial, particularly during public health emergencies. This study underscores the importance of expanding direct cash transfer and food assistance programs and allocating resources to remove barriers to accessing food and other necessities, both in the present and the future.

While this study provides insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on farming households, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. One significant limitation is the reliance on respondents’ memory due to the lack of written documentation regarding income, expenditure, and savings. This reliance on the recall method introduces potential recall bias and may affect the accuracy of the data collected. Additionally, the focus on high-value agricultural practices may limit the generalizability of findings to other social strata within farming communities. Furthermore, the study’s cross-sectional design presents challenges in drawing definitive conclusions about changes in livelihoods over time. Further research could benefit from longitudinal studies to track changes in high-value crop farming livelihood activities more accurately. Moreover, comparative analyses across different socio-economic strata would enhance our understanding of the differential impacts of the pandemic and the effectiveness of various policy interventions and adaptation strategies. This would provide valuable insights for policymakers seeking to mitigate the pandemic's effects on farming communities in developing countries.

Data availability

The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the International Food Policy Research Institute (2022X020.BAU) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). The authors also wish to express their gratitude to Md Shajedur Rahaman, Senior Scientific Officer, Agricultural Economics Division, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, for his assistance in generating the study area map.

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Agricultural Economics Division, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Gazipur, 1701, Bangladesh

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U.S.: Conceived and designed the experiments; Performed the experiments; Analyzed and interpreted the data; Wrote the paper. M.J.A.; I.A.B.: Conceived and designed the experiments; Analyzed and interpreted the data; Wrote the paper. M.A.R.S.; T.J.; T.M.: Conceived and designed the experiments; Contributed reagents, materials, analysis tools, or data; Wrote the paper. M.S.P.; A.M.M.; A.K.: Analyzed and interpreted the data; Wrote the paper.

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Salma, U., Alam, M.J., Begum, I.A. et al. The impact of COVID-19 on livelihood assets: a case study of high-value crop farmers in North-West Bangladesh. Sci Rep 14 , 20121 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-71242-4

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Hard lessons from the national public data hack.

Justin Sherman

National Public Data, a data broker branding itself as a background check company, has been hacked , as a newly proposed class-action lawsuit and media reports recently revealed.

The hacker group calling itself “USDoD” stole and posted online 2.9 billion records—including individuals’ full names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, current addresses, past addresses, names of parents, names of siblings, and phone numbers. Details are still emerging about the National Public Data hack and its impacts. But it appears that the data implicates , at a minimum, hundreds of millions of people in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.—making it one of the largest-ever publicly disclosed hacks of personal data.

The sheer scale of the breach and the way in which the data was first collected raise four important lessons for lawmakers and the national security community. The market for data incentivizes this kind of ever-expanding data collection to increase profits. Data aggregation at scale adds new dimensions to privacy risks, and when the data is poorly secured, the harms to privacy and national security are magnified. Data brokerage, despite some recent legislative discussions, remains highly unregulated. And while regulatory actions from agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice are essential, playing whack-a-mole against privacy-invasive and national security-threatening data sales is not a viable, long-term strategy.

The first lesson from this breach is that the market incentivizes data brokers to collect ever-more data to increase their profits. Data brokerage is a large industry, and there is variance company to company. Some data brokers, for instance, may be incentivized to collect more data points on the same customer base—such as expanding the breadth and granularity of their data repositories on people living in the U.S. Other data brokers may be incentivized to collect more data by adding on different types of data, much like how geolocation data brokers such as X-Mode have added lists like “Cancer” and “Special Needs Kids” over time to supplement their data offerings. Others may be incentivized to keep collecting data on more and more people around the world, to the tune of billions of individuals . In National Public Data’s case, the company compiled billions of records, which it then allowed customers to search for “instant results.” (The data broker describes its customers as “private investigators, consumer public record websites, human resources, staffing agencies, and more.”) Whether the collection of data on billions of people would be seen as an outlier in other areas of the tech sector, it is not uncommon for a number of data brokers. National Public Data took advantage of the availability of data from “various public record databases, court records, state and national databases, and other repositories worldwide” to build its database covering people on multiple continents.

Second, the aggregation of data at scale adds new dimensions to privacy risks. Discussions and scholarship exploring collective privacy rights and harms (including the limits of an individual rights-centered approach in law), the privacy risks of big data sets , and related issues expand in detail on this point. Gathering enormous amounts of data on people and combining it together makes it easier to identify or “reidentify” specific individuals within the data. It makes it easy for ill-intentioned or simply careless actors, whether cybercriminals or U.S. companies, to identify correlations between data points and infer additional, sensitive data about people in the data set. Aggregating data at scale makes it more attractive for hackers, from independent cybercriminals to nation-states, to target and steal those big piles of data. Take the Equifax hack as a prime example: The data broker and credit reporting agency had poor security practices , and in 2017, Chinese military hackers stole its data on about 145 million Americans.

Here, the mere fact that National Public Data aggregated billions of individually identified records on people, including sensitive data such as Social Security numbers, underscores each of these points. One can imagine a data buyer, or the company itself, using the names of people’s family members to attempt to infer race or nationality (whether accurately or not) and then combining that with a history of a person’s ZIP codes, which can be used to infer income brackets , to come up with a data set both prone to abuse and more attractive to a hacker than smaller, scattered databases with the same information. This creates additional privacy risks, including giving the data set holder or purchaser the ability to combine identified data points together across time. It poses national security risks too, such as through the ongoing fallout of the theft of, ostensibly, millions of people’s Social Security numbers and other data.

Third, data brokerage remains a highly unregulated industry, even despite recent legislative discussions. It did not take a corporation with multiple sprawling offices and thousands of staff to compile this sensitive data on, at the very least, hundreds of millions of people. It appears to have been fewer than 25 people (possibly just one person) at a company in Florida called Jerico Pictures, Inc. (doing business as National Public Data), who decided to aggregate and sell all this information. Public records, meanwhile, are often considered by U.S. law to be “publicly available information” despite the fact that digitizing public records, aggregating them, linking them to specific people, and posting them online for search and sale is incredibly invasive and meaningfully changes the privacy, security, and safety risks facing individuals. 

Zooming way out beyond National Public Data—and looking at the lack of protections around companies collecting, aggregating, inferring, and selling data on people’s mental health conditions , geolocations , finances , and even children —it is clear that current laws are failing to protect Americans, who have no way of meaningfully objecting or consenting to this kind of data collection and sale. The risk to vulnerable people across the country, from elderly individuals to targets of domestic and gendered violence, and to government employees and military personnel on the national security front, points to glaring legislative gaps.

Lastly, the whack-a-mole approach will not suffice. Class-action lawsuits (and private rights of action ) are important options for consumers to seek redress when companies misuse their data and violate their privacy. Regulatory actions are also important, including the Federal Trade Commission’s work against telehealth companies and antivirus companies selling personal data; the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s work to protect military service members and older Americans from scams and targeting; the Justice Department’s efforts to prosecute elder fraud and scams fueled by data brokers ; and state-level actions such as California’s settlement with a company that illegally collected and shared children’s data. The need for strong federal and state privacy regulatory powers, and substantive investments in regulatory agencies, will not go away, even with a strong, comprehensive federal privacy law.

But absent a comprehensive privacy law, or even a smaller one targeting the most egregious of data practices (e.g., selling contact information for elderly people suffering from Alzheimer’s, the addresses of stalking survivors, the online activity of government contractors), these harms will continue. They will continue to threaten Americans’ privacy, civil liberties and freedoms, and national security. And when breaches like this one occur, consumers will face even greater risks of fraud and scams—and they, along with many other businesses, will bear the financial and economic costs. Foreign actors could leverage the data to scam, phish, impersonate, and otherwise target government personnel, too (e.g., by having access to their Social Security numbers, compiled data on past addresses, and readily searchable information on family members’ names). While National Public Data may be in the headlines today, many other companies have collected data on people at such a scale and will continue to do so. Congress cannot sit back and expect regulatory agencies to do its job.

Instead of Congress just holding yet another hearing about the technical details of a cyber incident (which is sometimes important), or writing yet another bill like the American Privacy Rights Act , which is riddled with industry-written loopholes, it should use these four lessons to understand why the data brokerage industry’s continued large-scale data collection is such a threat to consumers, privacy, and national security.

More information is still coming out about the National Public Data hack. The details themselves, such as the threat actor USDoD attempting to sell the data for $3.5 million, are interesting case studies on breaches and dark web sales of large-scale data sets. In the big picture, though, law- and policymakers should take these four lessons and view this kind of data aggregation and sale—and then compromise—as part of the much bigger problem it is.

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