Abstract
Difficulties will be suggested in order for future researchers to prepare themselves.
A qualitative case study method is predominantly used in the field of education, political sciences, sociology, anthropology, organisational studies, industrial relations and so forth (Yin, 2003; Mertens, 2005; Kitay & Callus, 1998; Whitfield & strauss, 2000; Silverman, 2005; Hartley, 2004; Yusoff, 2001). Many of this literature is focus on the conceptual and theoretical aspects of case study approach.
There is less emphasis on the practical and challenges faced by the qualitative researchers in the fieldwork especially in the area of business, industrial relations and management. This article has two objectives. Firstly, the concept of case study and its significant in the industrial relations field will be explained. Secondly, it will expand the theoretical aspect of case study by examining the practical issues and difficulties that the researcher experienced in the field mainly from the Malaysian context.
These difficulties will include ethics dilemma, the accessibility to the organisation, conducting interview with research participants, observation and documentary access. At the same time, some solutions for the above difficulties will be suggested in order for future researchers to prepare themselves before conducting research in business organisations.