Sample Business Case Template (Page 9 of 18) in pdf

Section

Alternatives

Purpose of the Alternatives Section:

The reason for writing the Alternatives Section is to provide the reader with an outline of the realm of possibilities that

are available to address the problem or opportunity. It provides the reader with rationale to why some have been

eliminated as viable alternatives. Finally, it provides a detailed description of viable options that will address the

business problem or opportunity. A viable option usually includes a ‘do nothing’ option (status quo).

Description:

List all possible solutions that may meet the business problem or opportunity. Based on a practical and common sense

analysis, narrow the list to include only viable alternatives, stating the reason for excluding an alternative. Valid

alternatives should not be simply excluded due to funding constraints. Only the viable alternatives will be further

detailed and carried forward into following sections of the business case.

For each viable alternative, explain the key features including people, processes and systems. Discuss how each

viable option addresses the business problems and meets the objectives of the project within the outlined scope as

stated in Section 3 – Project Description.

Each alternative must be defined in sufficient detail to enable identification of specific impacts (Section 7 – Business &

Operational Impacts), project risks (Section 8 – Project Risk Assessment), and benefit and costs (Section 9 – Cost

Benefit Analysis). Include partnership and shared service opportunities that may enhance the business outcome of an

alternative.

Include any detailed requirements analysis in an appendix.

Checklist for Alternatives

1. Have all possible solutions been identified?

2. Have all viable alternatives been determined? Is there sufficient reason for the exclusion of possible solutions?

3. Are the alternatives truly distinguishable?

4. Are the viable alternatives defined at a sufficient level of detail to define costs and benefits?

5. Where possible, do alternatives take advantage of partnerships and shared service opportunities?

6. Have any critical success factors been highlighted for each alternative?

7. Have all constraints for each alternative been identified?

BUSINESS CASE – [PROJECT NAME]

PAGE

Sample Business Case Template Page 9