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Frequently-Asked Questions

Q: What is a case competition?

A: A case competition is an event in which teams have the opportunity to research a real-life business situation and advise management on what the company should do. Each team in the IKEA International Case Competition will be working on the same case, in which they will have 48 hours to analyze and create their presentation.

Q: What about teams?

A: There is a limit of four student members per team, plus an additional Research Associate. Team applications must be completed no later than 5 pm on Friday, October 31, 2008.

Q: What is a Research Associate?

A: A Research Associate is a Foster School undergraduate who is looking to gain introductory exposure to case competitions while assisting a registered team with their analysis. Research Associates may help by searching databases, entering data, creating graphs, and conducting library or internet research. They are not coffee gophers. Research Associates will give a minimum of 10 hours over the course of the 48 hour analysis period but are welcome to give more time if mutually agreed upon with the team. For team members, working with a Research Associate is a wonderful opportunity to mentor the Foster School's future student competitors.

Q: What will I get out of participating in this event?

A: First, because you are all serious business students, participating and volunteering in the IKEA International Case Competition is an excellent resume builder. On top of that, there will be lots of great prizes, free food, and the winning team will split a $1,000 IKEA-Seattle gift certificate. Case competitions are also an excellent way of applying the book knowledge that you have learned to solve real world problems that may arise in the business world. They also provide a great opportunity to practice analytical and team working skills in a realistic, high-pressure work environment. Plus, you can show how smart and qualified you are to corporate judges.

Q: What types of volunteer work can I do? And what will I get for my time?

A: You can help with the day of the competition, marketing/PR, and other aspects of the competition. Helping out can also count toward your CISB Service Hours. We also plan on having lots of food and fun for our volunteers. If you are interested, send an email to ikeacase@u.washington.edu.

Q: Where can I get more information about competitions?

A: The Undergraduate Program Office has prepared a helpful handout that covers a lot of information including which international competitions the UW has been invited to this year.