How many options should be shortlisted for inclusion in the OBC?

Shortlisting four options for inclusion in the Outline Business Case (OBC) is considered a best practice in project management. This number strikes a balance between having sufficient variety to explore viable solutions while also maintaining manageability in analyzing and comparing the options.

When four options are presented, it allows stakeholders to evaluate a diverse range of solutions that may meet the project's objectives without overwhelming them or complicating the decision-making process. This approach helps to ensure that the chosen options are realistic and feasible, given the constraints and requirements of the project. Involving too few options might limit creative solutions, while too many could lead to confusion or analysis paralysis, where stakeholders struggle to choose among an extensive list. Thus, four options provide an optimal range for comparison and assessment in the OBC.