A. An IT-related business case typically includes the following elements:

• a definition and analysis of a business need, threat, opportunity, or problem,
   
• the proposed solution expressed in terms that decision-makers can understand,
   
• a discussion of alternative solutions considered and why they were rejected,
   
• life-cycle cost estimates and estimated budget requirements,
   
• a cost-benefit analysis,
   
• return on investment (ROI) analysis,
   
• an investment risk analysis (including, technical, organizational, and financial risks), and
   
• proposed project time frames and delivery schedules.

It is also a good idea to include information about key assumptions made, and any constraints that may have limited the data-gathering and analysis. Your organization may have specialized requirements governing the form and content of a business case; be sure to find out before you begin.

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