Suggested Outline for a Business Plan

Business plans are often used to help determine whether or not a business venture is likely to e successful. The most critical judge of any venture should be the potential owner of the business. That person typically has the most to gain or lose by the ultimate success or failure of the concept. By answering the following questions, you should be more informed and focused on the business viability and your own appropriateness for this opportunity. Please note that the study intentionally does not include a financial analysis section, which you obviously want to include. You should exercise great due diligence in this regard and consider utilizing the services of a professional advisor(s).

I. Company Description / Overview

A. Nature of Business
1. Individuals being served / their needs
2. Why your area?

B. Your Distinctive Competencies (primary factors that will lead to your success)
1. Superior customer need satisfaction
2. Production/service delivery efficiencies
3. Personnel
4. Geographic location

II. Market Analysis

A. Target Markets
1.Demographics
2. Geographic location
3. Seasonal/cyclical trends

B. Competition
1. Identification
2. Strengths (competitive advantages)
3. Weaknesses (competitive disadvantages)

III. Products and Services

A. Detailed Product/Service Description (from the user's perspective)
1. Specific benefits of product/service
2. Ability to meet needs
3. Competitive advantages

IV. Marketing and Sales Activities

A. Overall Market Strategy
1.Market penetration strategy
a. Intended means (including Advertising, promotion, printed matter, etc.)

2. Growth Strategy

V. Management and Ownership

A. Management Staff Structure
B. Key Managers (including self)
1. Name
2. Position
3. Primary responsibilities and authority
4. Primary responsibilities and authority with previous employers
5. Unique skills and experiences that add to your company's distinctive competencies.

C. Legal Structure of the Business

VI. Organization and Personnel

A. Recruitment procedures
B. Staffing levels