Introduction To Business Cases | BusinessAnalystMentor.com

In the simplest of terms, a business case is a comprehensive document that outlines the reasoning behind a specific business initiative. It defines business needs and typically features a detailed analysis of costs, benefits, and potential risks and rewards related to proposed solutions, well as the recommended course of action. 

A business case is an essential tool for decision-makers as it provides a clear overview of all the necessary information needed to evaluate if a particular course of action aligns with the overall organisational goals. So, when properly done, a business case should not only justify the investment in a certain business initiative but also provide a roadmap for the implementation of that initiative.

A business case helps stakeholders properly understand and assess the impact the change bought by a particular solution will have on different aspects of the organisation, including operations, finances, resources, and positioning on the market. 

All this means that business cases can be used as a means for prioritising among the different projects in the portfolio and deciding which ones will be initiated. It’s important to note that the primary purpose of a business case is not to convince a decision-maker of a certain position but, rather, to help those in charge make a well-informed and objective decision. 

Therefore, when writing a business case, a business analyst shouldn’t look to show something in a good or bad light but focus on identifying, analysing, and presenting facts associated with a business initiative.

Another important aspect of a business case is that it presents a complete story of the problem that needs solving. It starts with detecting an issue that needs a permanent solution, moves on to defining the needed change (evaluating the risks and benefits associated with the change), and, ultimately suggests a solution to the problem.