When a case fits no framework
Unconventional cases generally can not be fit into any of the frameworks we have studied so far. These cases are generally open-ended and have multiple ways of being structured. Most unconventional cases do not have a particular solution like profitability cases do.
Example prompt
"You are required to improve the literacy rate of your state."
As you can see, this case focuses on how creative you can be and how broad your framework can be to incorporate maximum points. There is no one solution in this case.
Things to keep in mind in unconventional cases:
- 1Try to break the problem into a mathematical formula whenever possible.
- 2Aim at looking at the problem in 2 ways: quantitatively and qualitatively.
- 3If the case is really broad, try asking the interviewer if you can focus on only the most important bucket.
- 4Bucketing helps massively in unconventional cases.
- 5Never begin an unconventional case structure without ensuring you are familiar with the problem or the industry; ambiguity can be your biggest enemy.
Some examples and how you can approach them
A · Journey or time-related problems
Calculate the total time taken at each step of the journey to isolate the problem.
B · Process-related problems with regards to a particular goal
For example, help India win the next Cricket World Cup.
C · Increasing footfall at a particular event
For example, increase the footfall of a concert in Delhi.
Keep in mind, these are suggestive and have to be modified depending on the case. The best way to improve is to keep practicing.