Developing a Problem-based Case Study begins with a business partner. Faculty work together to unpack the content involved in working through a business situation to determine a good fit in a course and/or program. As a result, course content is examined in light of actual business use. Relevancy of course content can be addressed effectively in the process of this collaboration.

Working with the business partner also includes "framing" the situation by considering deliverables, timelines, and evidence of learning. The parameters and constraints for integrating the authentic situation into the classroom environment are also worked out collaboratively with the business partner. Helpful guidelines for this process are identified by Dr. Keith Morneau in VA, a PBCS design partner.