What is a Business Case?

Imagine you want a new toy, like a really cool, super fast RC car, but you need more money to buy it. You think your parents might be able to get it for you, but first, you need to convince them why they should.

So, you create a plan or 'case' to show them why buying this car is a good idea. You might tell them that this toy will help you learn how cars work, keep you busy and out of trouble and that you've been doing your chores and homework consistently, so you think you deserve a reward.

Now, think of this plan as your 'toy car business case'. Similarly, in the grown-up world, a 'business case' is like a plan that people in a company make to show why a particular decision (like starting a new project or buying expensive equipment) is a good idea. They have to show how it will help the company, like making more money or assisting people to do their jobs better.

Just like your parents might ask questions or want to see your report card before getting you the toy, people in the company will also review the business case to make sure it makes sense and is right for the company. If it is, they'll approve it, but if not, they might ask for more information or say no.

So, a business case is just a fancy way of saying "a plan to convince someone to do something."