Feasibility Study
Description
Template
– Introduce project and background
– Define how the project fits within organization’s current mission (mission statement)
– Introduce issues, possibilities, options, (cost, resources, partnerships, etc)
– Explore points of comparable projects
– Make clear final recommendation
Assignment
The City of Gary and Indiana University Northwest have retained our firm to do analysis on the possibilities of developing an “enterprise zone” near the University. Community leaders feel that the present time is ripe for business development within the city and the IUN campus area has great potential here, given the traffic already around the campus. Versus past projects that have failed, the planning for this enterprise zone seeks a realistic, honest assessment of the kinds of businesses that could thrive near a commuter campus. Possible benefits for new businesses here include rental/construction and tax incentives, as well as full civic support for planning “from the ground up,” according to community leadership.
Prepare a feasibility study for the city that [in 600 to 800 words] researches possible businesses, likely challenges, time frames, and potential advantages for such a planned “enterprise zone” near IUN. Within your analysis, include any important economic or community data and make recommendations (perhaps including possible business sites or particular incentives) for the project. In your conclusion here, make a distinct recommendation for the City’s plan (i.e., “Yes, seek to locate these kinds of businesses here…” or “No, because…” or “Yes, but reconsider these concerns…”). For more information, see the City’s website at
[For an example here, see the “Feasibility Report” in the Business Writer’s Handbook. Format is not critical here; focus on content. Rethink market issues; argue for/against this project’s feasibility or viability. Your group doesn’t have to offer an exhaustive assessment. Focus on one or two central issues in your proposed development project or explore major challenges to any project
Do some basic research. You don’t have to prepare an exhaustive analysis of the project, but explore some basic concerns. Perhaps compare this project to other projects here or elsewhere. Define civic or regional economic issues. Reconsider how developing an enterprise zone in this area at this time could succeed or fail based on present concerns with commercial or residential development.
How does the City’s business culture work for and against possible success here? What impact do geographical concerns play in your analysis? Working from IUN’s situation as a “commuter campus,” what defines this effort’s likely customer base? How could possible businesses be marketed or advertised?
