A Business Case is a decision-making tool. Business Case authors therefore have a responsibility to write a Business Case that balances brevity with clarity, in a way that is easy and interesting to read and helps decision makers make the best decision for the organisation and key stakeholders. Writing a business case can feel daunting when you've had little guidance on where to start or what good looks like. This book cuts through the confusion with proven approaches, practical templates, and worked examples.
Drawing on two decades of writing, reviewing, and rescuing business cases across sectors, this guide shows you how to make a compelling case that decision-makers will want to read. You'll learn to structure your thinking, present options systematically, demonstrate strategic alignment, and write with clarity and confidence. Whether you're writing a two-page case for additional headcount or a comprehensive document for a transformation programme, the principles are the same.
This second edition includes case studies showing what works and what doesn't, plus a chapter on using AI assistance effectively.
Penned by a seasoned consultant who has supported professionals across industry to write better business cases, this book is the only blueprint of its kind. The guidance in this book, together with a host of useful templates and tested techniques, demystifies the task of writing Business Cases. This book is a field coach that will help Business Case authors craft a narrative that resonates with decision-makers. From simple business case scenarios to large complex cases, this book is a universal blueprint. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned corporate veteran, the principles in this book will guide you and improve the way you write business cases.
If you aim to complete a business case writing qualification such as "Better Business Cases", this book is highly recommended as pre-reading to first understand all key aspects of a business case. If you have completed a qualification and have not read this book, it is guaranteed to provide you with unique tools, techniques and insights that are not included in the Better Business Cases qualification and supporting text book.
When you follow the author's guidance in this book, you will be equipped to write and present compelling business cases more confidently, professionally and successfully.
As always with this author's books, there is no waffle, page filling theory or unnecessary padding. Practical. Relevant. Useful.
Templates in this book include:
- Benefits Tracker
- Project Business Case Template
- Clarification Questions Log
- Stakeholder Mapping
- Stakeholder Insights Analysis
- Strategic Fitness Scorecard
- Ideas Comparison Scorecard
- Simple Options Appraisal
- TCO Options Comparison Table
- Simple Options Appraisal with x-year TCO
- Scored Options Appraisal Showing TCO
- Impact v Net Position Chart
- Weighted Scored Options Appraisal Showing TCO
- Investment Appraisal
- Business Case RACI Matrix
- Simple Risk Assessment
- Residual Risk Assessment
- Business Case Assumptions Log
- Business Case Review Checklist
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: EMANUELA GIANGREGRIO works in management consulting, project management and AI governance. Her clients span the private, public and third sectors across diverse industries, from small businesses to large international corporations and NGOs. She has trained thousands of people around the world and has a knack for explaining complex topics simply. She inspires professionals through her real-world experience, practical approach and passion for continuous improvement.
