The Single-stage Business Case (SSBC) combines the Indicative and Detailed Business Case stages into one process document supporting a single decision-making point.
SSBCs are only for low risk investments, and we recommend agencies agree decision points through the planning process with their Minister.
It recommends a preferred option that optimises value and seeks approval from decision-makers to formally go to market and to finalise the arrangements for successful implementation.
The SSBC:
- confirms the strategic context of the organisation and how the proposed investment fits within it
- confirms the need to invest and the case for change
- identifies a wide range of potential options and through analysis reduces this to a short-list
- determines the preferred option which optimises value, by undertaking a detailed analysis of the costs, benefits and risks of the short-listed options
- prepares the proposal for procurement
- plans the necessary funding and management arrangements for the successful delivery of the project (which may include preparing for a bid through the Budget process)
- informs a proposal to decision-makers to seek agreement to approach the market and finalise the arrangements for implementation of the project.
Approval of the SSBC
If the investment requires new funding, you will need to seek Cabinet approval of the SSBC before seeking funding through the Budget process. If your investment requires Cabinet approval (as per CO (23) 9) you will need to submit your SSBC to Cabinet summarised in a Cabinet paper. The Treasury’s Guidance for Cabinet papers seeking business case approvals should be used when writing your Cabinet paper.
If your Chief Executive has approval authority:
Once the Single-stage Business Case has been approved by your Chief Executive, your agency can approach the market to select a supplier, through a Request for Proposal (RFP) or other procurement process as appropriate.
If Cabinet has approval authority:
When approving the SSBC, Cabinet will indicate when the agency will be invited to submit an initiative for potential Budget funding (which does not necessarily guarantee funding).
The agency also starts work on the ImBC, which documents finalised arrangements and costs, to be able to seek approval to award the contract and commence delivery.