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8.2 Strategic Outline Case (SOC)

8.2.1

The SOC is a very brief preliminary document, usually no more than 10 or 12 pages long, that introduces the basic project concept and contains enough detail to support an informed decision on whether to proceed to an OBC. It should include a preliminary assessment of strategic fit, options, value for money, affordability and achievability. Key elements in a SOC include:

  • the project concept and rationale for Government intervention
  • initial statements of strategic aims, business need and project objectives
  • relevant management considerations, including necessary stakeholder consultations and legal issues
  • high level consideration of possible options
  • very preliminary assessment of costs, benefits, risks and funding and affordability.
8.2.2Analysis at SOC stage is broad and indicative - too broad and indicative to determine a preferred solution, but sufficient to judge whether it is worth committing resources to the more substantial work of an OBC.
8.2.3DFP has issued a template which indicates the core content expected in a SOC and is designed to facilitate documentation of a SOC with suitable and proportionate effort. Find it here

Read on to Outline Business Case (OBC)

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