Write Your Business Plan Using a Step by Step Process

August 9, 2010 by Frank Goley, Business Consultant

As a Business Plan Consultant, I come across a lot of clients who simply get overwhelmed in developing and writing their business plans. If you look at the business planning process in totality, it can seem like a daunting task. However, if you break it down into a step by step, building block process, you will find it becomes a much easier process. Here are some tips to help…

Break the Business Plan Process Down into Sections

In my Business Plan process, I like to start with the Company Section, then move on Management, then to Products and Services, then to the Marketing Plan, then the Strategic Plan, and finally the Financials, the Appendix, and last, the Executive Summary. This way the business plan builds on each section logically and incrementally, making the process much more doable, effective and efficient.

Come Up with Questions and Requirements for Each Business Plan Section

Once you have the various business plan sections laid out and the order of their development, then come up with the questions and requirements for each section. There are a ton of books and resources on the internet to help you brainstorm these, and then apply this information to your business. My Business Plan Workbook contains a prescribed and proven business planning process, along with all the requisite questions and requirements on a section by section basis.

Business Planning is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

It takes steady consistency to complete an effective business plan. So you don’t get burned out and really enjoy the planning process, I suggest working on the plan a couple hours a day. Work on the plan first thing in the morning before you get busy with your business day. This way you have fresh thought, and you get it done for the day (i.e. it is not weighing on your mind all day). If you can work 3 hours a day on the weekends, it will be worth the effort. However, taking one day off a week from the planning to take a step back and recharge is also preferable. Do what you can but don’t try to do it overnight. Consistency is what gets a plan done. Consistently work on it daily for short periods of time, and your plan will be done in a timely manner. Inconsistency brings disaster in a business plan process.

A Good Business Planning Process is a Must

Designing a good business plan process upfront is essential. The quality and scope of the process will determine the quality and effectiveness of your business plan. Design it in parts and implement it in step by step sections, which build on one another.

Have questions on your Business Plan? I offer FREE Business Plan Reviews and Consultations.

Today’s Video is on The Business Plan Roadmap

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- "I would like to thank you Mr. Goley for making the extra effort with my business plan. The world of business is cut throat and the slightest misstep by an inexperienced entrepreneur can lead to a good idea becoming a waste of time and energy. Mr. Goley has the expertise and knowledge that allows for your great idea to become a great business. He told me what I needed to hear, not what I wanted, as well as, pointing me in the right direction for my future business endeavors." -- Foster Fox, Entrepreneur [more testimonials]
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- “Frank, I reviewed the information you provided regarding business turnarounds. I was impressed by the level of detail and the elements that dealt with the leadership qualities of the business turnaround consultant and team. I have reviewed a great deal of literature on the topic and have interviewed a number of turnaround experts. Few have addressed the level of detail that you have provided and none have addressed the requisite qualities of the turnaround team. Thanks again for providing this information!” -- Dan Anderson, MBA, CBA, Director, Small Business Development Center , Helena, MT [more testimonials]
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