[2] An example could be that a software upgrade might improve system performance, but the "business case" is that better performance would improve customer satisfaction, require less task processing time, or reduce system maintenance costs.
A compelling business case adequately captures both the quantifiable and non-quantifiable characteristics of a proposed project.
"[4] Business cases can range from comprehensive and highly structured, as required by formal project management methodologies, to informal and brief.
A business case can include details such as strategic alignment, return on investments, risk exposure assessment, feasibility study, expected Key Performance Indicators, evaluations and alternative measures.
In the public sector, the business case is argued in terms of cost–benefit analysis, which may include both financial and non-financial cost and benefits.