Summary:
BCA: Business Case Analysis first takes the reader through a simple example—the ‘8 day BCA’ (Part I). This illustration provides an easy to understand approach for a relatively simple decision support problem—whether or not to upgrade existing office computers. It is deceptive, however, in that it acquaints the reader with many of the analysis tools that are actually used for much more complex business decisions—and that are often found in expensive management studies.
The book then progresses into an overview of the concepts behind these decision support approaches (Part II). Featured are topics dealing with the historical development of the techniques, and with the inevitable need to reconcile human perceptions with ‘mechanical’ calculations. A socio-technical theory is presented as a potential approach for reconciliation of human-mathematical aspects of business decisions.
Next, comprehensive examples of specific decision support techniques illustrate calculations and algorithms for many of the most common business situations (Part III). Examples for specific techniques include how to develop economic, statistical and risk analyses, human process modeling and network analysis. Also, simulation, linear programming and inventory models (for both consumables and reparable items) are illustrated. In these detailed examples the book reveals many of the ‘secrets’ that professional consultants use for all sorts of business analysis situations.
Finally, step-by-step procedures provide both descriptive report guidelines and an example final briefing for finished BCA reports (Part IV). Following this basic approach, the reader learns how to conduct their own business case analysis; or, alternatively, what they should expect when consultants are used.
This comprehensive “how to” approach that considers both behavioral and management science aspects to decision support situations. It provides a refreshing, rarely found combination of these business decision support approaches.
About the Author:
Jim Brannock is a principal and partner in a prestigious management consulting firm based in the Northern Virginia–Washington D.C. area. He has over thirty years experience with business management situations, including business case analysis, strategic planning, and sociotechnical systems analysis. He holds a double bachelor degree in economics and history, an MBA, and a PhD with a concentration in business management. He has authored and coauthored numerous management studies, journal articles and professional business analysis presentations.
Dr. Brannock was prompted to write this book after observing, repeatedly, that otherwise professional business managers had little background in the basics for even the most simple business case analysis procedures and techniques. Time and again, clients were either already committed to, or about to make expensive business decisions without even reviewing the rudimentary facts and economic comparisons of alternatives.
As you will see in this book, business case analysis is not that big a deal—it’s not rocket surgery. Jim takes the reader through a very simple 8-Day BCA that demonstrates most of the basics. He then reveals, in detailed examples, many of the ‘secrets’ that expensive consultants use for all sorts of business analysis situations. Following these basic approaches and techniques will help you learn how to conduct your own business case analysis and to evaluate potential opportunities and risks of important business decisions.
To Order:
BCA: Business Case Analysis
James W. Brannock
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Softcover: $19.95
Hardcover: $24.95
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