Have you got a Business Plan? I am surprised at the number of companies trading without a business plan. Even more surprising is that this is often true for some sizeable organisations. Of course, a business plan will be an essential requirement for those applying for loans or government funding schemes. However, whether you’re a new or established business, I urge you to take the time to write a plan.

A business plan can bring real focus to an organisation. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy document, and we can provide template options to help you. The main areas to cover are as follows:

Strategy

The strategy should be the driving force of any business, and the resulting actions will be the road map. Having a plan is a way of keeping focused and on track. A business plan brings together all the critical elements of your market and proposition.

Market

A plan will identify target customers for new businesses; this will be from existing or commissioned market sector research. It should be clear on what problems the company is solving for its customers and estimate the size of the market. It will determine the USP (unique selling point) and brand values and identify the people involved who will drive the business forward.

Forecasting

An exercise in forecasting is one of the most valuable and insightful sections that determine how financially robust the business idea is. What are the operational costs? How much will the products be sold for? How much profit is there? What is the forecasted turnover/profit for the next five years?

Starting to plan

We have a programme designed to help take stock and then assist business planing called the 7 Stage Business Builder, check it out at the link below.

If would like help to develop a plan for a new or established business, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to help. 

About

Based in Loch Lomond, Paul Saunders Marketing works with clients throughout Scotland, providing marketing consultancy and creative digital media for businesses, charities and organisations of all sizes. Services include marketing, commercial photography, brand design, website design, video production and social media, events & PR. Call Paul on 01360 661029 or get in touch via the contact page to find out more.