Business Cases, SDLC and SWOT Analysis

The decision to embark upon a significant change to a current system or creation of a new system is not one that is made carelessly. Before the decision is made to begin the early planning phase, management must understand and agree with the proposal as a whole. A business case must be presented as a precursor to the SDLC (Systems Development Life Cycle). Using strategic planning, specifically SWOT analysis, the case can be accurately formed and provide the necessary evidence to support the proposal. A strong case will ultimately lead to progression in development

The business case provides an initial introduction to a need the organization faces. It should be presented as a comprehensive argument built towards justifying a proposed change. The case clearly illustrates that not only is there a need for within the organization, but that this change will properly resolve or fill that need. A strong business case may include expected focus, requirements, deliverables, and overall value. When delivered to management, the case should be both thorough and clear, aiding those involved decision-making process. If the business case is strong, the project will move forward to the planning phase.

As mentioned earlier the business case is an important precursor to moving forward in the Systems Development Life Cycle. The planning phase of the SDLC relates directly to the business case in that the activities performed during this phase help build a strong case. The planning phase utilizes a preliminary investigation which includes a feasibility study. The findings of operational, technical, and economic feasibility can be presented for decision making. It is how these results are presented in a business case that can determine the future of a project. This first step decides if the project is to move forward or simply come to a halt.

As it is the goal of the analyst to develop strong support to back a proposed change in this early phase, it is important for him/her to understand strategic planning. A series of questions known as SWOT analysis can help IT managers develop the project idea that will be proposed in the business case (Cashman, Rosenblatt & Shelly, 2006). This form of strategic planning poses questions about strengths and weaknesses while considering areas of opportunity and threat. This evaluation is critical to the feasibility and strength of the project idea. By identifying answers to these topics, the analyst can better prepare and present a strong business case that has taken all factors into consideration.

Overall, the importance of the business case cannot be stressed enough. It is the determining factor in whether the organization will begin with a substantial time and money commitment. Because many of the reviewers will not be directly hands-on with the project, accuracy and clarity are crucial. A business case must be developed so that there is no confusion about what needs to be done and why. If management makes a decision on misleading or unclear information, the project's integrity and functionality can be compromised. In the end, developing a strong business case ensures at least some benefit for the business's future. The business case shows that all factors, both internal and external, have been considered and moving forward will strengthen the organization. Without it, organizations face poor decisions, resulting in lost time and money.

With today's complex systems, it is nearly impossible and equally as detrimental to jump into a project uninformed. Strategic planning can help generate the necessary questions that will bolster the validity of the proposed change. In turn, a strong business case can be created that illustrates the need for the change. Business cases not only allow for the progression of the project, but will lead to progression of the business itself.