A Basic Business Plan Format

A business plan is nothing more than a systematic assessment of all the factors which may be critical to your proposed business, the purpose of the business, the products and/or services you will offer, and the goals you set for yourself. Some of the things a good business plan might include are:

• A Mission Statement. This is a concise outline of your business purpose and goals.
• The People. The most important ingredient for your business success will be you! Detail your experiences and personal assests and then do this for every person that will be involved in your business. Be clear and factual. Describe the factors that the people bring to the table and explain how you will handle any deficiencies (add a partner, hire it done, etc.)
• Action Profile. Describe your intended business in detail clearly expressing exactly what you will do and how you plan to get the job done.
• Financial Assessment. Provide a complete assessment of your economic situation and how you will fund both your immediate start-up needs and your long-term operaton.
• Cash Flow. Include a complete year-one cash flow analysis and include at least the obvious pros and cons.
• Marketing. Develop a basic marketing strategy and include a marketing forecast with your plans for projected expansion.

And you thought a business plan was going to be hard! Sure, it takes a little work, but if you get started and work your way through it you will end up with a tool of immeasurable benefit as you begin your journey of business success.