Business case
A business case explains why a proposed investment or project should proceed and provides a basis for approval and continuing review. It sets out the problem or opportunity, objectives, feasible options, expected benefits, costs, risks and assumptions. It should consider financial and relevant non-financial effects, including the option of doing nothing where appropriate. Its conclusions need updating when the evidence changes; an initial approval is not an instruction to continue regardless of later developments.
Worked example
A council compares repairing an existing service centre, building a replacement and moving services online. The business case combines costs with accessibility, service quality, implementation risks and legal requirements, then recommends an option and measures for reviewing the benefits.
Common mistake
A business case is not simply a sales pitch or a profit forecast. Public-service and compliance projects can be justified by benefits other than profit.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |