This outline provides the essential sections for a comprehensive business plan, including an executive summary describing the business, products/services, target market, and challenges. The marketing plan defines the target customers and niche. The operations plan outlines production, legal requirements, personnel, and suppliers. Financial statements and projections demonstrate historical performance and future expectations. Risks are also assessed.
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Outline for a business plan (revised)
1. OUTLINE FOR A BUSINESS PLAN
I. Executive Summary
(a) Mission Statement
(b) What Business Are You In (described in a paragraph or less – what consumer need /
problem will you satisfy / address)
(c) Target Market
(e) Form of ownership
(f) Company History
(g) Core Competencies
(h) Most Significant Challenges (Now and in the Near Future)
(i) Long Term Outlook / Objectives
III. Products & Services
(a) Detailed description of products/services and benefits offered (including features
that will be unique relative to alternative products/services currently available,
and features that will not be unique)
(b) Sources of Competitive Advantage and Disadvantage (why will consumers want to
buy your product or service rather than alternatives? What may favor alternatives?)
(c) Pricing Structure
IV. Industry & Competitive Analysis
(a) Industry Overview (Size, Maturity, Fragmentation, etc.)
(b) Industry Trends (growth, consumer preferences, product development/service
delivery)
(c) Summary of Key Competitors (Size, Competitive Advantage, Strengths &
Weaknesses)
(d) Sources of Competitive Advantage (how do current competitors differentiate
themselves?)
(e) Barriers to Entry
(f) Potential Impact on Industry of Changes in Technology, Government Regulations,
Economy, Competitive Dynamics
(g) Industry Economics / Key Drivers of Success
V. Marketing Plan
(a) Description of Customers / Target Market(s)
(b) Define Your Niche (Your Unique Space)
(c) Marketing Strategy (Advertising, Marketing, Promotion, Pricing Strategy, Location,
Distribution Channels)
2. OUTLINE FOR A BUSINESS PLAN (CONTINUED)
VI. Operations Plan
(a) How and Where You Produce/Deliver Your Products/Services
(b) Legal Environment: (i) Licensing & Bonding Requirements, (ii) Other Permits, (iii)
Health, Workplace or Environmental Regulations, (iv) Other Special Regulations
Covering Your Industry, (v) Zoning or Building Code Requirements, (vi) Insurance
Coverage, (vii) Intellectual Property
(c) Personnel (Description of Staff Required)
(d) Inventory
(e) Suppliers
(f) Credit Policies
VII. Value Creation / Growth Strategy
(a) Summary of Each Planned Growth or Operational Improvement Initiative, and
Expected Impact On Financial Performance
VIII. Management & Organization
(a) Organizational Chart
(b) Roles & Responsibilities of Key Positions
(c) Bios for key senior management
(c) Board of Directors / Advisory Board
(d))Professional Support (Banker, Accountant, Attorney, Insurance Agent, Consultants)
IX. Historic Financial Performance
(a) Summary Income Statements, Balance Sheets, Cash Flow Statements
(b) Key Economic Drivers and Financial Ratios
(c) Management’s Discussion of Financial & Operating Performance
X. Projected Financial Performance
(a) Summary Income Statements, Balance Sheets, Cash Flow Statements
(b) Key Economic Drivers and Financial Ratios
XI. Primary Risks & Mitigating Factors
XII. Appendices / Supporting Materials