This template provides a sample business case that presents the reasoning for
undertaking a business project. Typically, business cases include the background of
the project, the expected business benefits, the options considered, the expected costs
of the project, a gap analysis, and the expected risks. This template can be fully
customized to meet the specific needs of any industry. This template should be used by
small businesses or other entities that want to provide a business case justifying the
commencement of a business project.
Sample
Business
Case 2010
For Project Management
Sample Business Case
For Project Management
[A good business case captures the reasoning for initiating a project or task. Formal business cases
typically include background of the project, the expected business benefits, the options considered (with
reasons for rejecting or carrying forward each option), the expected costs of the project, a gap analysis
and the expected risks. .Prior to detailing the recommendation for the project, you should describe the
alternatives considered, including the alternative of not taking any action, as well as the reasons for
rejecting alternatives, and the risks associated with taking no action. Remember that those evaluating your
case for a project will be looking at:
value, risk and relative priority in the context of overall business mission and strategy
costs and return on investment as a measure of value
quantifiable methods to compare alternative proposals.
Objective methods to measure effectiveness and results]
[Depending on the size and complexity of the project, and availability of information, you may need to
include some or all of the components detailed on the following pages.]
[Gray-shaded bracketed information is instructional in nature, and should be deleted prior to submission.
Angle-bracketed information highlighted in yellow is meant to be replaced by your own information.]
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary....................................................................................................................................... 6
Value Proposition/Business Opportunity ..................................................................................................... 6
Background ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Current State ............................................................................................................................................. 6
Desired Outcomes..................................................................................................................................... 6
Strategic Alignment................................................................................................................................... 7
Risks........................................................................................................................................................... 7
Benefits ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
Alternatives ................................................................................................................................................... 7
Evaluation Criteria..................................................................................................................................... 7
Alternative 1.............................................................................................................................................. 7
Alternative 2.............................................................................................................................................. 7
Choosing not to Procee