APMG International Better Business Cases™ Foundation

The APMG-International Better Business Cases Foundation course is an ideal starting point for professionals involved in developing, reviewing, or approving business cases, particularly within the public sector. Based on HM Treasury’s Green Book guidance, the course introduces the Five Case Model, a proven framework used to create clear, structured business cases that support sound investment decisions and deliver meaningful public value.

Many change initiatives struggle to move forward because their business cases fail to demonstrate value or convince decision-makers. This course equips you with the skills to develop well-evidenced proposals that accurately scope initiatives, clearly outline the case for change, and secure senior management support and funding. You’ll learn to build effective public sector business cases, including the strategic outline business case, outline business case, and full/final business case, while exploring how iterative business cases evolve as programme or project needs change.

The training also focuses on developing quality spending proposals that promote transparent decision-making and ensure that public resources are used effectively. You’ll gain the knowledge to improve business case quality, support better investment outcomes, and build organisational confidence in project delivery.

Delivered over two days via live, tutor-led virtual classrooms, the course offers a flexible and interactive learning experience. You’ll work through real-life examples, take a mock exam, and receive full exam preparation to help you succeed in the official APMG examination. Upon completion, you’ll gain APMG certification and earn CPD hours towards your professional development.

This course is ideal for:

Senior Responsible Owners
Programme and Project Managers
Project Team Members
Anyone evaluating investment proposals

Detailed course overview

Students enrolled:

279 students

Study method:

Live online sessions delivered via virtual classroom.

Flexibility:

Study anywhere from your computer, device, or tablet

Additional Support:

Delegates are provided a copy of Better Business Cases Full Guidance (152 pages).

Success rates:

High pass rates

Completion time:

2 Days

Start date:

Depending on the course schedule

What will you learn?

Throughout this training course, you will learn:

The philosophy and underlying rationale of the Five Case Model.
The different types of business cases, their purpose, who is responsible for them, and when they are required in the development of a spending proposal.
The development of the business case to other recognised and recommended best practices for programme and project management.

APMG International Better Business Cases Foundation Syllabus

Five-Case Model Overview

Developing the strategic case

Defining the case for change
Setting SMART objectives
Defining benefits
Defining key risks
Balancing Effectiveness / Economy / Efficiency

Developing the economic case

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

Determining the procurement strategy
Apportioning risk
Determining payment mechanisms

Developing the financial case

Ascertaining affordability
Securing relevant funds
Determining capital requirements
Net effect on prices

Developing the management case

Defining project management controls
Defining change controls
Define benefit measurement arrangements
Define risk management arrangements
Define post-project evaluation processes

Course duration

Our ITIL 4 Foundation - Classroom course runs over two intensive days. During this time, you'll cover the entire ITIL v4 Foundation syllabus, with engaging sessions designed to help you easily grasp complex topics like change management, service operation optimisation, and continual service improvement.

You'll participate in real-world scenarios, discussions, and exam practice activities to reinforce your understanding. You will also receive a digital copy of the official ITIL v4 manual and other resources to continue your learning journey even after the course, making the ITIL 4 certification cost a worthwhile investment, representing excellent value for money.

Exam Format

Foundation exam format:

Duration – 40 minutes.
Number of questions - 50 multiple-choice questions
Pass Mark – 50%
Closed book

Pricing and payment options

0% interest finance and payment plans to fit your budget, even with a low credit score.
The price you see is the price you pay – all prices include VAT.
Our flexible payment plans make it easy to invest in your future without financial stress.

Eligibility - Who is this course for?

There are no prerequisites for the Foundation course. However, you must pass the Foundation exam to enrol in the Better Business Cases Practitioner course. Since this is a virtual classroom training, a laptop or computer with internet access is also required.

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Better Business Cases Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 5-case model of better business cases?

The Five Case Model is a structured approach for creating clear and comprehensive cases, commonly used in the UK public sector business cases, and is based on HM Treasury’s Green Book guidance. It ensures all critical elements of a project are carefully assessed, with well-defined objectives and rationale, before approval. The model focuses on five core areas:

Strategic case model
Economic case model
Commercial case model
Financial case model
Management case model

What are the benefits of a strong business case?

A strong business case outlines clear goals, justifies the project, and helps align with organisational priorities. It supports transparent decision-making, highlights risks, and ensures effective use of resources.

In project management, a well-structured business case builds trust, accountability, and boosts the chances of success.

What is the difference between OBC and FBC?

OBC stands for Outline Business Case, which sets out the preliminary thinking and justification for a project. FBC, or Full Business Case, is a more detailed version developed after the OBC is approved, including finalised costs, plans, and procurement strategies.

How to present a convincing case?

A clear and effective business case sets out the project’s purpose, goals, and benefits, making it easier to align with organisational priorities. It uses data to support investment decisions, highlights potential risks with solutions, and ensures resources are used wisely.

Is Better Business Cases Foundation training suitable for me?

The Foundation course is suitable for Project Managers, Business Analysts, Financial Planners, decision-makers, and anyone involved in project delivery who wants to build a strong foundation in business case development.

Is the APMG Better Business Cases Foundation examination hard?

The APMG Better Business Cases Foundation exam questions can be challenging, but don't let that discourage you. With the skills and knowledge you’ll gain from this training, you’ll be well prepared to pass confidently.

APMG-International Better Business Cases (TM) Foundation