Public sector organisations are under constant pressure to do more with less — meeting rising demand for services while operating within increasingly constrained budgets. In this challenging environment, robust, evidence-based business cases are essential for making sound investment decisions.
This course provides a practical introduction to developing and reviewing business cases, equipping participants with the tools and insights they need to make confident, well-informed choices.
Participants will gain an understanding of the Five Case Model, as set out in HM Treasury’s Green Book guidance, and how to apply it effectively within their own organisations.
At Progress Training, we tailor every course to the roles, needs, and contexts of our participants. Our trainers bring up-to-date experience, and we continuously review our materials to ensure relevant, high-impact learning for all.
Key Learning Features
- The role and importance of business cases in public sector decision-making
- The different types of business cases and when to use them
- The development journey — from strategic outline to full business case
- How to scrutinise, challenge, and improve business cases with confidence
This course is ideal for:
• Business managers seeking to strengthen their decision-making toolkit
• Project leaders responsible for securing investment approval
• Professionals involved in strategic planning and implementation
• Anyone needing to present compelling business cases to stakeholders
This course is ideal for public sector professionals — particularly managers and officers — who have limited experience with business case development but are expected to contribute to, review, or lead business cases in the future.
By the end of this course, you’ll:
• Know how to structure winning business cases
• Understand what stakeholders really look for
• Be able to present your case with confidence
• Have practical tools to implement immediately
Know how to improve the quality and rigour of business cases in their own teams or organisations
Course Content Overview
Strategic Fit
- Aligning proposals with strategic planning and identifying the need for change
- Common strategic planning tools (SWOT, TOWS, PESTEL)
- Avoiding common planning pitfalls
Five Case Model Deep Dive
- Strategic Case: making the case for change
- Economic Case: identifying and appraising options
- Commercial Case: commercial viability and procurement
- Financial Case: affordability and funding
- Management Case: deliverability and project planning
Business Case Development Process
- The stages of development: from early idea to final approval
- Change management principles and stakeholder engagement
- Risk management and benefits realisation
- Cost-benefit analysis and dealing with optimism bias
- Tools for selecting the best option
- Implementation planning, funding routes, and procurement considerations
Our Delivery Promise:
Small groups, interactive sessions, and real-world applications ensure you can immediately apply what you learn. We adapt our content to your industry context, ensuring maximum relevance and impact.
Duration: 2 days face to face
Delivered London, Leeds, Edinburgh or on site