Business Plans
The Business Planning Framework
This is the framework I use to frame my understanding of any business – even the home-based business. If your business is ‘sub-optimal’, then it needs improvement in one or more of these areas.
First you need to diagnose the problem, before you consider a solution.
For more information about each segment click on the following links:
(See further notes below.)
- The Planning Framework
Notes:
1. I have linked ‘systems & processes’ to my ‘Resources’ page, as these are examples of some of the systems that you might use in your business. Of course, you will need many other systems to deliver your product or service.
It is important that your business is systemised as far as possible if you are to create a saleable business asset for yourself – otherwise, all you are creating is a job. Read ‘The E Myth Revisited’ by Michael Gerber if you want more information on systemising your small business.
2. I have not created a ‘products & services’ page as I am assuming that you already have a product or service in mind – if you haven’t, head on over to my ‘Opportunity‘ page or read this post if you want to find products to sell on the internet.
3. Also, I have not created a ‘People’ page as this is not my main area of expertise. I do, however, have a good People Development System that I will one day introduce.
4. The ‘Culture’ of your business will be driven by your own personality and skills and will determine how you interact, communicate and motivate other people as you build your business.
Business Plan Template
Simply put these key words in to the search engine to get plenty of options. You may want to use the template supplied by your Bank. Here is a link to Business Link‘s page on preparing Business Plans.
Go to my ‘Budgeting & Forecasting‘ page for more help on creating your financial forecasts. If you would like help in preparing or critiquing your plan, then please contact Mark – the details are on the ‘Home’ page.
Mind Maps
Mind maps are good way of organising your ideas. See this blog post about a free mind mapping tool.
- Buubl.us Mind Map
