Business Analysis Guidebook/Building a Business Case

Developing a Solid Business Case
Identify and Quantify a Problem
 * Define the business need
 * Define the project parameters
 * Determine if there is a viable solution
 * What are the merits of the problem
 * Would the project be consistent with the agency’s mission and strategic plan
 * Present the problem and proposed solution in a context that allows management to use consistent criteria to compare all project proposals

Reason Why the Project is Necessary

 * Define the project parameters
 * Describe the As-Is
 * State the problem
 * Tell a story, make it interesting, build a persuasive case,
 * i.	clear
 * ii.	concise
 * iii.	factual – include all facts
 * iv.	objective
 * v.	minimal use of jargon and conjecture


 * Create a picture of the end state
 * i.	Show the value, financial justification


 * High-level view of the proposed project that will allow all affected units in the organization to understand the purpose and be knowledgeable about the project
 * Possible future state: How will the business function with and without the proposed solution
 * Interview as many people as necessary to understand the big picture and desired outcome

Options

 * Develop a potential solution
 * Described other possible solutions, and why they were rejected

Benefits of Doing the Project
Explain how that will happen, what the effects will be on the business
 * Link issues to solutions and benefits
 * Improves customer satisfaction?

Costs

 * Money
 * Personnel

Cost-Benefit Analysis

 * Value for money,
 * return on investment
 * show cost/benefit over a defined period of time
 * will the proposed solution impact other units or processes (+ or -)

Risks

 * Identify risks to project success

Evaluate the Proposal

 * Why is the project necessary
 * What are the top benefits
 * Why is your proposed project the best way to attain the desired results
 * Any previous projects to solve similar problems?