How to write a business case
A business case helps decision-makers judge whether an investment is worth the time, money and risk.
- State the reason for the activity and ensure it aligns with organisational strategy.
- Compare realistic options, including doing nothing, and clearly justify the preferred choice.Knowledge Train is a PRINCE2 Accredited Training Organization.
- Separate project costs and timescales from ongoing operational costs and benefit realisation timescales.
- Define benefits in measurable terms and distinguish outcomes from benefits so performance can be tracked.Knowledge Train is an AgilePM Accredited Training Organization.
- Include known dis-benefits and major risks, plus mitigations, to avoid one-sided decisions.
- Use an investment appraisal, such as net benefits and break-even timing, to test viability.Knowledge Train is a PRINCE2 Agile Accredited Training Organization.
- aligned with the business case? (e.g. are the costs and timescales in the project plan correctly reflected in the business case?)Contents
- Are the benefits clearly identified and justified?
- Is it clear how the benefits will be realized?Introduction
- Is it clearly defined what will judged a successful outcome?
- Is the preferred business option clearly stated, along with the reasons why?Technical project management skills
- If the project requires external procurement, is the preferred sourcing option stated, and why?
- Is it clearly stated how any necessary funding will be obtained?Leadership and interpersonal skills
- Does the business case include non-financial, as well as financial criteria?
- Does the business case include operations and maintenance costs and risks?Business acumen and strategic thinking