Educational ROI framework

Technology ROI framework and ROI calculator

Use a transparent, finance-first method to build a technology business case. The framework is product-agnostic and designed to be validated with your team's data.

Open the ROI calculator Read the ROI framework Review methodology

Product-agnosticCitable sourcesAssumptions made explicit

Answer box: How do you build a technology ROI business case

Build a technology ROI business case by defining the decision, measuring a baseline, modeling value drivers and costs with explicit assumptions, then validating and stress testing the biggest inputs.

Use the ROI framework for the sequence and guardrails.
Use the ROI calculator to quantify drivers and compare scenarios.
Use methodology for formulas, definitions, and exclusions.

What this site provides

A step-by-step ROI framework based on established business case practice^[1]^[2]
A calculator that turns value drivers into a transparent model with assumptions you can validate
A methodology page that defines what is included, what is excluded, and how formulas are applied

Start here1) Read the framework2) Use the calculator3) Review methodology and guardrails4) Check sources

Guardrails and responsible use

This calculator is for educational use and planning. It is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Treat the output as a starting point for a finance-led business case that you validate with your own data, process owners, and governance.

If you need a rigorous investment decision, consider adding a sensitivity analysis, documenting sources for each assumption, and using an NPV approach when the timing of cash flows matters.^[2]

Written and reviewed by Randy Kardas, CPA, CITP, CGMA, MBA

Randy is an accounting and finance professional focused on technology ROI modeling, business case development, and practical analysis that finance teams can validate.

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Last updated2025-12-12How we keep this current

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Sources used on this page

Forrester: Total Economic Impact (TEI) methodology
A widely used approach for structuring benefits, costs, flexibility, and risk in technology business cases.
Accessed 2025-12-12
McKinsey: Fostering better decisions through holistic ROI estimates
Discussion of connecting value drivers to decision making and using NPV-style thinking for investment tradeoffs.
Accessed 2025-12-12