Chapter 4

Business Case Theme

PRINCE2 EXAM OBJECTIVES COVERED IN THIS CHAPTER:

• Define outputs, outcomes, benefits, and dis-benefits.
• Understand the purpose of the Business Case theme.
• Understand the purpose and the content of the Business Case management product. Know the processes in which it is developed, verified, maintained, and confirmed, and which roles are responsible for each.
• Understand the purpose and the content of the Benefits Review Plan management product. Know the processes in which it is developed, used, and reviewed, and which roles are responsible for each.
• Know the relationship between a programme’s Business Case and a project’s Business Case.

The justification for a project should always be clear. There should be a solid set of reasons that show why the project is being undertaken. These reasons should be valid, not only at the outset, when those involved with the project are putting together an argument to secure financing, but also throughout the life of the project. It is easy for the justification for a project to disappear as things progress. Perhaps costs rise, new competitive forces enter the marketplace, or technologies change. It is also important to check that projects meet the objectives set out in their Business Case. This often can’t be evaluated until some time after a project has finished. At this point, those involved with the project will probably have moved on....