Project Manager Tips & Hints

Business Case and Online Project Management Software

Business Case and Online Project Management Software

The first step you need to take to initiate a project is to develop a Business Case. A Business Case is a document which justifies the start-up of a project. It includes:

• A description of the problem or opportunity which exists in the business
• A list of the available options for delivering a solution to resolve the problem
• A list of the costs and benefits associated with each solution option
• A recommended solution option for approval.

The Business Case is usually presented by Senior Management within the business to an identified Business Sponsor or customer. During the creation of a Business Case, it may be necessary to undertake a Feasibility Study. This process involves undertaking a more detailed assessment of the current business problem / opportunity, the various solution options available and the likelihood of each alternative solution meeting the customer’s requirements. The Feasibility Study adds more rigour to the solution options defined in the Business Case.

The Business Case is referred to throughout the project to determine whether the costs, benefits, risks and issues align with that originally documented. At the end of the project, a Post Implementation Review (PIR) will be undertaken determine whether the project delivered the Business Benefits outlined in the Business Case. In this regard, the success of the project is measured against the ability of the project to meet the criteria outlined in the Business Case.