# How to structure a business case for buying a contract automation platform

You know you want to invest in a contract automation platform—streamlining contract workflows, reducing risks, and improving efficiency. However, securing buy-in from the stakeholders involved in the buying process requires more than just enthusiasm.

You need a structured business case that clearly outlines the value, return on investment (ROI), and strategic fit for your organization.

This guide walks you through how to structure a compelling business case for contract automation using the [**Oneflow Business Case Playbook**](https://oneflowcom.notion.site/Oneflow-business-case-playbook-17e93a8eb77b80318e0ff269650bb8ca) as a framework.

## 1. Executive summary

The executive summary is your elevator pitch. It should concisely outline:

- **The problem:** Challenges with the current contract process (e.g., inefficiencies, compliance risks, revenue leakage).
- **The solution:** How a contract automation platform solves these challenges.
- **The value proposition:** Expected benefits in cost savings, efficiency, and risk reduction.
- **The call to action:** What decision-makers need to do next.

💡 *Pro tip:* Keep this section brief and impactful—executives often read this first (and sometimes only).

Read also: [What is contract automation? A complete guide](https://oneflow.com/blog/contract-automation/)

## 2. Problem statement: Why change is necessary

Clearly define the pain points of your current contract management process. Consider:

- **Manual inefficiencies:** How much time is spent drafting, negotiating, and approving contracts?
- **Compliance risks:** Are you missing key contract obligations or renewal deadlines?
- **Revenue impact:** How much money is lost due to contract errors, bottlenecks, or missed opportunities?

📊 *Example:* *Organizations without contract automation lose an average of 9% of their annual revenue due to poor contract management.*

Using data from the Oneflow Business Case Playbook, quantify these problems to highlight the cost of inaction.

## 3. The solution: Why contract automation?

Explain how a contract automation platform addresses these challenges:

✅ **Faster contract cycles** – Automates approvals and reduces negotiation times.  
✅ **Reduced risk & compliance issues** – Provides audit trails and automated alerts.  
✅ **Centralized contract repository** – Ensures easy access and visibility for all stakeholders.  
✅ **Improved revenue capture** – Prevents lost deals due to contract inefficiencies.

💡 *Pro tip:* Showcase examples of companies that have successfully implemented contract automation, demonstrating real-world results.

## 4. Value analysis & ROI projection

Decision-makers want numbers. Break down the expected financial impact:

- **Time savings:** Reduce contract processing time by X%.
- **Cost reduction:** Cut administrative costs by X%.
- **Revenue optimization:** Improve contract renewal rates by X%.

📊 *Example:* *By automating contracts, companies see a 30–40% reduction in time spent on contract management, saving thousands annually.*

Use the [**Oneflow Value Analysis Framework**](https://oneflowcom.notion.site/Value-analysis-2-3-18593a8eb77b8085ad0fc9f286ed6a94) to calculate the ROI specific to your organization.

#### Most popular business agreement templates

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## 5. Implementation timeline & next steps

Stakeholders need clarity on how and when the platform will be implemented. Break it down into phases:

📅 **Phase 1:** Discovery & vendor selection (1-2 months)  
📅 **Phase 2:** Implementation & integration (3-6 months)  
📅 **Phase 3:** Training & full adoption (Ongoing)

💡 *Use the* [***Oneflow Implementation Timeline***](https://oneflowcom.notion.site/Implementation-timeline-3-3-18893a8eb77b800d89caf61234c99e6f) *to visualize this process for stakeholders.*

## Conclusion

A well-structured business case doesn’t just sell an idea—it provides a roadmap for success. If you want to fast-track your business case, use the Oneflow Business Case Playbook to structure your argument, analyze ROI, and plan implementation.

📥 **Use our** [**playbook**](https://oneflowcom.notion.site/Oneflow-business-case-playbook-17e93a8eb77b80318e0ff269650bb8ca) **as your template and start building your business case!**