Five Case Model (UK Government)

Definition: A structured framework used by the UK government to assess and justify major projects and investments, ensuring that proposals are robustly appraised from strategic, economic, commercial, financial, and management perspectives.


The Five Case Model is a comprehensive approach designed to provide decision-makers with a balanced evaluation of any proposed initiative. Developed for use across public sector projects, it ensures that investments are sound, deliver value for money, and align with broader government objectives. The model is segmented into five distinct yet interrelated cases:

1. Strategic Case

This case establishes the need for change by defining the problem or opportunity, ensuring that the project aligns with governmental policies and long-term strategic goals. It sets the rationale for why the initiative should be considered.

2. Economic Case

The economic case assesses the overall value for money of the project. It examines the benefits, costs, and impacts on society and the economy, ensuring that the benefits justify the expenditure from an economic perspective.

3. Commercial Case

Focusing on market dynamics, the commercial case evaluates the best ways to secure external goods or services. It considers procurement strategies, risks, and the competitive environment to ensure the project is delivered under optimal conditions.

4. Financial Case

This component scrutinizes the affordability of the project. It details the funding requirements, identifies sources of finance, and ensures that the financial risks are understood and manageable within the context of the available budget.

5. Management Case

The final case addresses the planning, governance, and implementation arrangements necessary to deliver the project successfully. It outlines risk management, performance monitoring, and change control mechanisms to ensure that the project can be executed and sustained over time.

In summary, the Five Case Model provides a structured methodology for evaluating projects from multiple perspectives. It is instrumental in ensuring that government initiatives are both viable and aligned with strategic priorities, delivering optimal value for the public.

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