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APMG-International Better Business Cases Foundation and Practitioner
- Categories:
- Project and Programme Management
- Level:
- Intermediate
- Code:
- PPMBBCFP
- Exam:
- Yes - Included
Overview
This five-day course provides delegates with a thorough understanding of the five case model for creating Business Cases as mandated by HM Treasury. During the course we introduce the five cases and how they relate to the Government gateway reviews of spending and the three stages of development which culminates in the fully fledged Business Case. We also explain how these three stages are broken down into steps and actions.
Throughout the course, our experts help delegates understand the benefits of adopting the five case model by use of examples from the real world.
All relevant course materials are provided. The course includes the Better Business Cases Foundation and Practitioner Examinations.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites are necessary for attendance, although delegates would benefit from some experience of creating business cases for large capital expenditure projects and an appreciation of financial terminology.
Pre-Course Reading
- Delegates are provided with a copy of the Better Business Cases - Full Guidance document. This 152 page document is the basis for the course as well as the Foundation and Practitioner exams. Ideally delegates will have read this document but they must have read at least the first three chapters.
- Delegates are also expected to have read and completed the two exercises in the pre-reading.
What's included
Select your preferred way to learn:
What is Virtual?
Live, instructor-led training delivered online
Interactive online sessions led by subject matter experts. Learners join live classes, take part in discussions, and complete practical exercises from any location, making it easy to fit collaborative learning into busy schedules.
If you prefer to connect to a course that is taking place in a physical classroom, you can choose our Remote Access option. .
Best for: Teams and individuals who want expert guidance, real-time collaboration, and flexible access.
What's included?
5 Days instructor led course
Exam included
Pre-coursework
6 month free access to QA learning platform
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What is bespoke training?
Custom instructor-led training designed by QA to fit your needs
Tailored programmes built around your organisation’s goals, challenges, and skill levels. Delivered in the format that suits you to maximise relevance and impact.
Best for: Organisations and teams looking to target specific business priorities and capabilities with QA subject matter expertise.
Find out more about the course:
Learning outcomes
At the end of this course you will be able to:
- Understand the importance of the Business Case
- Understand how the proposal fits with an organisation's strategic vision
- Establish the clear need for change
- Set clear objectives
- Determine 'value for money' solutions
- Consider a wide range of solutions and optimise the 'long list' into the 'short list'
- Ascertain whether the proposal is affordable and viable
- Consider such aspects as Risk, Procurement, Benefits and Management
- Consider the proposal to be able to deliver a successful delivery
Course outline
The Better Business Cases course uses QA's unique multimedia case-studies and accelerated-learning techniques to ensure that theory is embedded and delegates feel confident in the practical application of this model. Additional evening work will be required in the form of consolidation reading and mock examination questions. The evening work is an integral part of the course and delegates should expect to spend approximately two hours on these activities.
The Foundation exam will be taken at the end day two. Delegates must pass the Foundation exam before taking the Practitioner exam.
The course will cover the following syllabus areas:
Five case model Overview
Delegates are introduced to the world of projects and capital expenditure. The individual five cases will be explored at a high level and the delegates will be shown how these five cases interact to form a cohesive whole.
Developing the Strategic Case
The following areas will be discussed:
- Defining the case for change
- Setting SMART objectives
- Defining benefits
- Defining key risks
- Balancing Effectiveness / Economy / Efficiency
Developing the Economic Case
The following areas will be discussed:
- Options framework analysis
- Defining the 'long list'
- Benefits appraisals
- Risk appraisals
- Turning the 'long list' into a 'short List' and a 'preferred option'
Developing the Commercial Case
The following areas will be discussed:
- Determining the procurement strategy
- Apportioning risk
- Determining payment mechanisms
Developing the Financial Case
The following areas will be discussed:
- Ascertaining affordability
- Securing relevant funds
- Determining capital requirements
- Net effect on prices
Developing the Management Case
The following areas will be discussed:
- Defining project management controls
- Defining change controls
- Define benefit measurement arrangements
- Define risk management arrangements
- Define post project evaluation processes
Better Business Cases Foundation Examination
Key exam information:
- 40 minutes long
- Closed book
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- 50% pass mark
Better Business Cases Practitioner Examination
Key exam information:
- 2.5 hours long
- Open book (Manual for this course only)
- 4 questions with 20 marks available per question
- 50% pass mark
Throughout the Better Business Cases Practitioner course, delegates will be exposed to numerous examples of examination questions. We will undertake a number of exercises and 'question-and-answer' sessions that will help to consolidate the learning, thereby ensuring that delegates are more than adequately prepared for the exams.
Good to know
QA is an approved training provider for ELCAS, proud to support service leavers in their transition into the tech industry. Learn more about Elcas approved training here.
For commercials please refer to:
or the ELCAS Portal.
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Prince2 Foundation and Practitioner
Portfolio Director
Jackie Hewett
Portfolio Director – Project and Programme Management
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