Prepare your business planning documentation

The type of business case needed for any particular project will depend on the following:

• the procurement route that will most probably be used (3PD or capital investment by a PCT/GP or other key stakeholder)
• the size of the project being considered
• the advice of your lead PCT

This section gives guidance on the documentation that is likely to be needed to secure funding approval for an individual scheme. It includes the development of a feasibility study, a SOC and a business case.

The complexity of any particular project will determine whether or not a feasibility study will be needed. For most small projects (up to £3 million and for PCTs leading the development of a number of small projects on a phased basis), it should be possible to move directly to preparing a business case.

A SOC is normally only required for larger projects (£3 million plus), particularly those involving significant space for secondary care activities. See also the section on 'Procurement options'.

Project leads should seek advice from their PCT on the requirements for each individual project. Individual PCTs should then take advice from their lead PCT.