Project Set-Up

Business Case

Any systems replacement project, however small, should be initiated on the basis of some form of business case for buying or replacing a system. The preparation of a business case helps ensure that the project is worth doing and that there are clear objectives. At the very least this business case should contain a brief description of the proposed development and key objectives of the project including:

• Anticipated outcomes of the Project.

• Relationship to the organisation's plan or overall strategy.

• Anticipated opportunities and benefits.

• Who will be affected by the proposed development?

• What risks are involved in implementing the proposed development - and what planning is in place to manage such risks?

• What are the investment costs - how much capital is required?

• What are the likely running costs once the development is off the ground?

• What about Payback - how long will it take for the organisation to recoup projected costs as savings or benefits?

• What are the timescales for the proposed development?

Follow the link to view the JISC infoNet Business Case Template.

It is also worth looking at some of the questions about Business Requirements raised in section, "Define What You Need". You should at least be able to answer the questions in broad terms before you start up a project.