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:
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Defining the case for change
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Setting SMART objectives
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Defining benefits
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Defining key risks
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Balancing Effectiveness / Economy / Efficiency
Developing the Economic Case
The following areas will be discussed:
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Options framework analysis
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Defining the 'long list'
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Benefits appraisals
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Risk appraisals
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Turning the 'long list' into a 'short List' and a 'preferred option'
Developing the Commercial Case
The following areas will be discussed:
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Determining the procurement strategy
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Apportioning risk
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Determining payment mechanisms
Developing the Financial Case
The following areas will be discussed:
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Ascertaining affordability
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Securing relevant funds
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Determining capital requirements
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Net effect on prices
Developing the Management Case
The following areas will be discussed:
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Defining project management controls
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Defining change controls
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Define benefit measurement arrangements
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Define risk management arrangements
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Define post project evaluation processes
Better Business Cases Foundation Examination
Key exam information:
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40 minutes long
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Closed book
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50 multiple-choice questions
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50% pass mark
Better Business Cases Practitioner Examination
Key exam information:
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2.5 hours long
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Open book (Manual for this course only)
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4 questions with 20 marks available per question
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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.
