You’ve got a great idea. You know it will make a difference. But if you can’t explain it in a way that wins approval, it’s dead on arrival. These five elements turn your business case into a green light.
Start with the why. Show how the project supports your organization’s mission. In healthcare, that might mean improving patient outcomes or meeting compliance standards. In nonprofits, it could be delivering more services without wasting donor dollars.
Boards want to know what they get for the investment. Spell out the benefits in plain language. Include financial returns and risk avoidance. For example, avoiding a HIPAA breach can save millions. For nonprofits, preventing grant loss is just as critical.
Be honest about what it takes. Include staff time, vendor costs, and change management. If clinicians or volunteers are involved, show how you’ll protect their time. This builds trust and prevents surprises later.
Keep it short. A seven-slide deck can do the job. One page for each element. Make it visual and easy to share.
Want to know if your PMO is ready to deliver strong business cases? Download the PMO Readiness Checklist and start building confidence today.