Stakeholder resistance can slow down the implementation of the Five Case Model. Some teams may see the model as bureaucratic or overly rigid, particularly in Agile environments. To address this, organisations should emphasise the model's flexibility and adaptability. Providing training and guidance can help teams see the value in structured investment planning. Without stakeholder support, the model may face implementation barriers.
A lack of clear guidance on applying the model can cause confusion. Some organisations struggle to adapt the Five Case Model to their specific industry or project type. Customising templates and case structures to align with sector-specific needs can make implementation smoother. Seeking external expertise or case study examples can provide useful insights. Without clear guidance, teams may apply the model inconsistently, reducing its effectiveness.
Time constraints can make completing all five cases challenging. Some projects require rapid approvals, and decision-makers may feel that detailed business case development takes too long. This issue can be managed by using a phased approach, prioritising the most critical cases first. Leveraging pre-existing data and streamlined templates also speeds up the process. Without efficient case preparation, projects may be delayed or pushed through without proper scrutiny.
Misalignment between departments can create implementation barriers. Different teams may have conflicting priorities or operate in silos, making it difficult to develop a cohesive business case. Encouraging cross-departmental collaboration ensures that all perspectives are considered. Regular communication and joint planning sessions improve alignment. Without coordination, inconsistencies in case development can weaken decision-making.
Failing to update business cases can lead to outdated justifications. Some organisations treat the Five Case Model as a one-time exercise rather than an ongoing process. Regularly revisiting and updating cases ensures that projects remain viable and relevant. Setting review checkpoints allows for adjustments in response to changing conditions. Without updates, business cases may become obsolete, leading to poor investment decisions.