06 Step 5: Deliver a Favorable Project TCO (Total Cost of Ownership). If the project investment you recommend to your leadership team does not include a favorable total cost of ownership or return on investment (ROI), it simply won’t get funded. With the current economic climate, technology leaders are postponing proj- ects that don’t provide an immediate return on investment. It is also important to note that ROI- return on investment, and TCO- total cost of ownership are different. And you should read up on both, so you understand the language your peers are using when they discuss funding your project behind closed doors. HINT: Most IT Directors show a favorable TCO on paper before the project is approved and funded. Schedule a follow-up with your CFO and CIO, and then deliver the TCO after the project is complete to show that you deliver on your promises.