2. Guidance Documents

The 5-Case Business Model, also known as the 'Better Business Cases' or 'HM Treasury' model, is a framework for evaluating projects that includes the Strategic Case (why?), Economic Case (value for money), Commercial Case (how to procure), Financial Case (affordability), and Management Case (how to deliver).

It is used to ensure projects are well-justified, deliver value, are commercially and financially sound, and are achievable before they begin.

• Strategic Case:  Justifies the need for the project and aligns it with the organization's objectives. It asks: "Why are we doing this?". 
• Economic Case:  Assesses different options to determine the one that provides the best value for money and return on investment, considering benefits and costs. It answers: "What is the best way of doing it?". 
• Commercial Case:  Outlines how the project will be procured, including how goods and services will be acquired from external suppliers. It asks: "How will we buy the solution?". 
• Financial Case:  Assesses whether the project is affordable and identifies the source of funding. It determines: "How will we pay for it?". 
• Management Case:  Details the project implementation, including the plan, timeline, and governance structure. It addresses: "How will we manage the delivery of the project?". 

The Portfolio Management Office will work with selected projects to adopt the appropriate business case development pathway.  However, please note this is a requirement of the MWGD and lead organisations will need to ensure sufficient resource to complete business case stage together with any supporting processes (eg planning).