9 basic components of a Great Business Plan

A business plan should not include fancy charts or perfect sentences to be effective. It can be as simple as something written on the back of a cocktail napkin or as complex as a document of 100 pages.

In both cases, the business plan must contain the following nine core components.

1. A brief description of the business, industry, and trends within the industry

It is not necessary to conduct hundreds of hours of research to find this. Just focus on what your business sector in which it operates, and what are the main trends within that area that could adversely or positively affect your business.

2. A statement of intent

Short and sweet, this should include something about your best products or services, people or companies you're targeting, and the primary objectives and values ​​of your business. Here's an example for a high level of hairdressing: A Hair Affair, we offer the finest hair care and styles for those who work or live downtown. When you create a new look or enhance a family, we are committed to building customers' confidence and ensure their satisfaction.

3. A bio of the owners, consultants, managers and / or investors in the company

Do not go crazy here. Simply enter the names of key players and a sentence or two of their skills and management experience. Then, if necessary, you can attach curriculum vitae to the business plan.

4. A brief description of the day to day operations of the company

Describe how work flow in and out of your business. If applicable, describe the major vendors and suppliers are based on products and supplies are purchased from them, and you'll set up payment terms with them and with your customers or clients.

5. Start-up costs

Show more will it take to get the business off the ground and reach breakeven. Not only cite a great number, break it down into smaller categories of expenditure, and detail how you come up with that money. For a simple worksheet to start-up costs, visit www.simplebizplanning.com / forms.htm and download the free module that takes you through typical start-up costs, piece by piece.

6. Cash Flow

Include a simple spreadsheet that shows how money will flow in and out of your business. Project out at least one to three years (well, and the figures tend to be wild hypothesis). To foil cash-flow easier to use, visit www.simplebizplanning.com / forms.htm and download the free form.

7. A brief description of what makes your product or unique service

Describe what makes your company stand out in the market. Demonstrate what you offer that differentiates your product or service from the competition.

8. The analysis of competitors

Include a brief description about your major direct competitors, to outline the strengths and weaknesses and show how you stack up against them.

9. Marketing plan and strategy

Draw the price points that you have chosen, the types of marketing that will be used to connect with potential clients and customers, and your overall strategy to bring and retain business. Be as specific as possible here.

That's it! These are the nine points required to cover to prepare a dynamite business plan.

If you're starting a business, buying a business, or expand a business, time to start planning, you start to put the structure and shape to your ideas and dreams. I can not wait to write up a plan to partner with a lender, investor or asks a key. Do it today ... do it for you! ......