<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[SmallBusinessNotes.com Recent Articles: Business Planning]]></title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-planning/</link><description></description></channel>
<item><title>What You Can Learn from the U.S. Census</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/what-you-can-learn-from-the-us-census.html</link><description><![CDATA[ One of the challenges for small businesses is that they don't have the resources to do the extensive market research that many large businesses do. So, if they are writing a business plan to seek financial support for their business, where can they find some of the background information requested? Fortunately, the U.S. Government provides lots of good information in data from the Census and other government entities. Let's take a look at what the census offers. The U.S. Census Bureau is part of the Department of Commerce. It serves as the leading source of data about the nation's...]]></description><pubDate>December  7, 2010  4:08 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans That Work: 7 Tips You Need to Know</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-that-work-7-tips-you-need-to-know.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The vast majority of business plans fail to raise capital and/or result in a successful business. This is a true, although unfortunate fact. Having helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs develop successful business plans, here are the seven things you need to know in order to develop a winning plan. 1. Keep the Message Clear Believe it or not, after reading the first page of most business plans, investors often do not understand the business in which the company is operating! This is particularly true when a company is involved in a complex, highly technical business. It may seem obvious, but...]]></description><pubDate>December  7, 2010  4:08 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Small Business</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/5-mistakes-to-avoid-when-selling-your-small-business.html</link><description><![CDATA[ When you first open a small business, selling your business for a profit may be the ultimate goal. Most small business owners are looking to build an asset, not just open a business. When the right opportunity comes along, selling the asset can provide you with the financial flexibility you have been seeking. You will be able to retire, pass on the asset and disassociate from the day-to-day operations of the business. The challenge for many business owners is they don't plan properly for that eventuality. When planning an exit, it would be wise to avoid these pitfalls. 1...]]></description><pubDate>December  7, 2010  4:08 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plan Presentation</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plan-presentation.html</link><description><![CDATA[This easy-to-use Business Plan Presentation template allows you to quickly create a business plan presentation that is both professional-looking and well organized. Slides cover topics that include the company's goals and mission statement, business challenges, opportunities and more.BUSINESS PLAN PRESENTATION[1].ppt...]]></description><pubDate>December  3, 2010  5:14 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Description of Business</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/description-of-business.html</link><description><![CDATA[ In this section, provide a detailed description of your business. An excellent question to ask yourself is: &amp;quot;What business am I in?&amp;quot; In answering this question include your products, market and services as well as a thorough description of what makes your business unique. Remember, however, that as you develop your business plan, you may have to modify or revise your initial questions. The business description section is divided into three primary sections. Section 1 actually describes your business, Section 2 the product or service you will be offering and Section 3 the location of your business, and why...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Appendix 3: Information Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/appendix-3-information-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) The SBA offers an extensive selection of information on most business management topics, from how to start a business to exporting your products. This information is listed in &amp;quot;Resource Directory for Small Business Management.&amp;quot; For a free copy contact your nearest SBA office. SBA has offices throughout the country. Consult the U.S. Government section in your telephone directory for the office nearest you. SBA offers a number of programs and services, including training and educational programs, counseling services, financial programs and contract assistance. Ask about Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), a national organization...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan Template</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-template.html</link><description><![CDATA[ This is the marketing plan of____________________________ I. Market Analysis A. Target Market - Who are the customers? 1. We will be selling primarily to (Total Percent of Business for each): a. Private sector _____________ b. Wholesalers _____________ c. Retailers _____________ d. Government _____________ e. Other _____________ 2. We will be targeting customers by: a. Product line/services. We will target specific lines ________________ b. Geographic area? Which areas? ________________ c. Sales? We will target sales of ________________ d. Industry? Our target industry is ________________ e. Other? ________________ 3. How much will our selected market spend on our type of product...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Tricks, Tips, and Traps</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-tricks-tips-and-traps.html</link><description><![CDATA[ 1. Marketing Steps Classifying Your Customers' Needs Targeting Your Customer(s) Examining Your &amp;quot;Niche&amp;quot; Identifying Your Competitors Assessing and Managing Your Available Resources Financial Human Material Production 2. Marketing Positioning Follower versus Leader Quality versus Price Innovator versus Adaptor Customer versus Product International versus Domestic Private Sector versus Government 3. Sales Strategy Use a Customer-Oriented Selling Approach Construct Agreement Phase One: Establish Rapport with Customer -- by agreeing to discuss what the customer wants to achieve Phase Two: Determine Customer Objective and Situational Factors -- by agreeing on what the customer wants to achieve and those factors in the environment...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Price/Quality Matrix</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/price-quality-matrix.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Types of Strategic Sales Appeals: Price: High / Quality: High -- Rolls Royce Strategy Price: High / Quality: Medium -- Out Performs Strategy Price: High / Quality: Low -- Feature Packed Strategy Price: Medium / Quality: High -- We Try Harder Strategy Price: Medium / Quality: Medium -- Piece of the Rock Strategy Price: Medium / Quality: Low -- Keeps on Ticking Strategy Price: Low / Quality: High -- Best Buy Strategy Price: Low / Quality: Medium -- Smart Shopper Strategy Price: Low / Quality: Low -- Bargain Hunter Strategy &amp;amp;nbsp; Information courtesy of the Small Business Administration. &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plan Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plan-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Here are some planning resources that should help with putting together the market and competition section of the business plan. Business/Industry Information Here are some resources to help you find business and industry information for your business plan. General Reference Information Business terminology and other general references that have useful data for entrepreneurs. Global Information Resources Global information on population, business and internet usage. Internet Information Resources Internet usage statistics and survey information. Local Information Sources Local community information resources. &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Advertising and Public Relations</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/advertising-and-public-relations.html</link><description><![CDATA[ How you advertise and promote your goods and services may make or break your business. Having a good product or service and not advertising and promoting it is like not having a business at all. Many business owners operate under the mistaken concept that the business will promote itself, and channel money that should be used for advertising and promotions to other areas of the business. Advertising and promotions, however, are the life line of a business and should be treated as such. Devise a plan that uses advertising and networking as a means to promote your business. Develop...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Management</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/management.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Managing a business requires more than just the desire to be your own boss. It demands dedication, persistence, the ability to make decisions and the ability to manage both employees and finances. Your management plan, along with your marketing and financial management plans, sets the foundation for and facilitates the success of your business. Like plants and equipment, people are resources -- they are the most valuable asset a business has. You will soon discover that employees and staff will play an important role in the total operation of your business. Consequently, it's imperative that you know what skills...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Financial Management Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/financial-management-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Sound financial management planning is the cornerstone of every successful business venture. Having a path to follow in the life of your business is half the battle in attaining your goals. Decide what you want to achieve financially in your business, use the financial tools to plot your path, and you will be well on your way to getting there. The first step is to establish a realistic budget by projecting your operating costs. The operating budget will reflect your priorities in terms of how your spend your money, the expenses you will incur and how you will meet...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Startup Financial Management</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/startup-financial-management.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Sound financial management is one of the best ways for your business to remain profitable and solvent. How well you manage the finances of your business is the cornerstone of every successful business venture. Each year thousands of potentially successful businesses fail because of poor financial management. As a business owner, you will need to identify and implement policies that will lead to and ensure that you will meet your financial obligations. To effectively manage your finances, plan a sound, realistic budget by determining the actual amount of money needed to open your business (start-up costs) and the amount...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Income Projection Statement</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/income-projection-statement.html</link><description><![CDATA[ &amp;amp;nbsp; Industry % Jan Feb ... Dec Annual Total Annual % Total Net Sales (Revenues) &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Cost of Sales &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Gross Profits &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Gross Profit Margin &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Controllable Expenses &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Salaries/Wages &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Payroll Expenses &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Legal/Accounting &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Advertising &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; Automobile &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp; &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Monthly Cash Flow Projection</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/monthly-cash-flow-projection.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Name of Business ___________ Owner ___________ Type of Business ___________ Month/Year Being Projected ___________ Prepared by ___________ Date ___________ Cash on Hand (beginning month) ___________ Cash Receipts: Cash Sales ___________ Collections from Credit Accounts ___________ Total Cash Receipts (2a+2b+2c)=3 ___________ Total Cash Available (before cash out) (1+3) ___________ Cash Paid Out: Purchases (Merchandise) ___________ Gross Wages (excludes withdrawals) ___________ Payroll Expenses ___________ Outside Services ___________ Supplies (Office and Operating) ___________ Repairs and Maintenance ___________ Advertising ___________ Car, Delivery and Travel ___________ Accounting and Legal ___________ Rent ___________ Telephone ___________ Utilities ___________ Insurance ___________ Taxes ___________ Interest ___________ Other Expenses...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Appendix 2: Financial Statements</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/appendix-2-financial-statements.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Income Projection Statement Balance Sheet Monthly Cash Flow Projection &amp;amp;nbsp; Information courtesy of the Small Business Administration. &amp;amp;nbsp; Business Plan Template Financial Statements Books on Planning...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>The Marketing Plan</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/the-marketing-plan.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Marketing plays a vital role in successful business ventures. How well you market you business, along with a few other considerations, will ultimately determine your degree of success or failure. The key element of a successful marketing plan is to know your customers-their likes, dislikes, expectations. By identifying these factors, you can develop a marketing strategy that will allow you to arouse and fulfill their needs. Identify your customers by their age, sex, income/educational level and residence. At first, target only those customers who are more likely to purchase your product or service. As your customer base expands, you...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Appendix 1: Marketing</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/appendix-1-marketing.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Marketing Plan Template Price/Quality Matrix Marketing Tips, Tricks &amp;amp;amp; Traps &amp;amp;nbsp; Information courtesy of the Small Business Administration. &amp;amp;nbsp; Business Plan Template Marketing a Small Business Marketing Plan Books on Planning...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Making a Balance Sheet</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/making-a-balance-sheet.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Company Name As of ____________________________, 19____ Assets &amp;amp;nbsp; Current Assets &amp;amp;nbsp; Cash $ _______ Petty Cash $ _______ Accounts Receivable $ _______ Inventory $ _______ Short-term Investment $ _______ Prepaid Expenses $ _______ Long-term Investment $ _______ Fixed Assets &amp;amp;nbsp; Land $ _______ Buildings $ _______ Improvements $ _______ Equipment $ _______ Furniture $ _______ Automobile/Vehicles $ _______ Other Assets &amp;amp;nbsp; 1. $ _______ 2. $ _______ 3. $ _______ 4. $ _______ Total Assets $ _______ Liabilities &amp;amp;nbsp; Current Liabilities &amp;amp;nbsp; Accounts Payable $ _______ Notes Payable $ _______ Interest Payable $ _______ Taxes Payable &amp;amp;nbsp; Federal Income...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Pricing</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/pricing.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Your pricing strategy is another marketing technique you can use to improve your overall competitiveness. Get a feel for the pricing strategy your competitors are using. That way you can determine if your prices are in line with competitors in your market area and if they are in line with industry averages. Some of the pricing strategies are: retail cost and pricing competitive position pricing below competition pricing above competition price lining multiple pricing service costs and pricing (for service businesses only) service components material costs labor costs overhead costs The key to success is to have a well-planned...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Organization and Management</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-organization-and-management.html</link><description><![CDATA[ This section should include: your company's organizational structure; details about the ownership of your company; profiles of your management team; and the qualifications of your board of directors. Who does what in your business? What is their background and why are you bringing them into the business as board members or employees? What are they responsible for? These may seem like unnecessary questions to answer in a one or two person organization, but the people reading your business plan want to know who's in charge. So tell them. Give a detailed description of each division or department and its...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Funding Request</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-funding-request.html</link><description><![CDATA[ In this section, you will request the amount of funding you will need to start or expand your business. If necessary, you can include different funding scenarios such as a best and worst case scenario. But remember that, later, in the financial section, you must be able to back up these requests and scenarios with corresponding financial statements. You will want to include the following in this section: your current funding requirement; your future funding requirements over the next five years; how you will use the funds you receive; and any long-range financial strategies that you are planning that...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Service or Product Line</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-service-or-product-line.html</link><description><![CDATA[ What are you selling? In this section, you describe your service or product emphasizing the benefits to potential and current customers. For example, don't tell your readers which 89 foods you carry in your &amp;quot;Gourmet to Go&amp;quot; shop. Tell them why busy, two-career couples will prefer shopping in a service-oriented store that records clients' food preferences, and caters even the smallest parties on short notice. Focus on the areas where you have a distinct advantage. Identify the problem in your target market for which your service or product provides a solution. Give the reader hard evidence that people are,...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>The Planning Process</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/the-planning-process.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Planning is one those things that we all know is good for us, but that no one wants to take the time to do. While it may seem that planning only takes time away from running your business, operating a business without a plan is like going to a grocery store without a list and trying to remember all the items that are needed. One comes out of the store having forgotten something critical - and having purchased a number of items that are totally frivolous and may never be used. It is the same for a business operating...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Appendix</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-appendix.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The appendix section should be provided to readers on an as-needed basis. In other words, it should not be included with the main body of your business plan. Your business plan is your communication tool. As such, it will be seen by a lot of people. Some of the information in the business section you will not want everyone to see. However, specific individuals (such as creditors) may want access to this information in order to make lending decisions. Therefore, it is important to have the appendix within easy reach. The appendix would include: credit history (personal &amp;amp;amp; business)...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Sample Business Plans</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/sample-business-plans.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Looking for the right business plan for your own specific business idea? Seeing how someone else has done their business plan, often helps you structure your own plan. We recommend the business plan software used by The Wall Street Journal and Yahoo Small Business. Have a look at some their free sample business plans to determine what will work best for you. Adv/Marketing/PR West Pacific Marketing Apparel/Grooming/Beauty Trend Setters Hair Studio Business Services Elsewares Promotional Employee Benefits Administration Occasions Event Planning Quick Returns Consulting/Coaching Acme Consulting StructureAll Ltd. Ed./Childcare/Toys InteliChild Food/Beverage The Daily Perk Chef Vending Ice Dreams Margarita...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Market Analysis</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-market-analysis.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The Market Analysis section should illustrate your knowledge about the particular industry your business is in. It should also present general highlights and conclusions of any marketing research data you have collected. However, the specific details of your marketing research studies should be moved to the appendix section of your business plan. This section should include: An industry description and outlook Target market information Market test results Lead times An evaluation of your competition Industry Description and Outlook This overview section should include: a description of your primary industry; the current size of the industry as well as its...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Company Description</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-company-description.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Without going into detail, this section should include a high level look at how all of the different elements of your business fit together. The Company Description section should include information about the nature of your business as well as list the primary factors that you believe will make your business a success. When defining the nature of your business (or &amp;quot;why&amp;quot; you're in business), be sure to list the marketplace needs that you are trying to satisfy and include the ways in which you plan to satisfy these needs using your products or services. Finally, list the specific...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plan Competition</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plan-competition.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Startup funding for a new venture often comes from friends and family until one finally gets enough of a business going to attract an angel or venture capital, especially if you are new to business and have no track record or credit history. A relatively new form of funding has appeared in the past few years, however, as funders have joined with universities to attract ideas for new businesses through business plan competitions. Business plan competition first started in the early 1980's at the University of Texas. Two Texas MBA students wanted to have a business school activity that...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Competition</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/competition.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Competition is a way of life. We compete for jobs, promotions, scholarships to institutes of higher learning, in sports-and in almost every aspect of your lives. Nations compete for the consumer in the global marketplace as do individual business owners. Advances in technology can send the profit margins of a successful business into a tailspin causing them to plummet overnight or within a few hours. When considering these and other factors, we can conclude that business is a highly competitive, volatile arena. Because of this volatility and competitiveness, it is important to know your competitors. Questions like these can...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Financials</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-financials.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The financials should be developed after you've analyzed the market and set clear objectives. That's when you can allocate resources efficiently. The following is a list of the critical financial statements to include in your business plan packet. Historical Financial Data If you own an established business, you will be requested to supply historical data related to your company's performance. Most creditors request data for the last three to five years, depending on the length of time you have been in business. The historical financial data you would want to include would be your company's income statements, balance sheets,...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - The Executive Summary</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-the-executive-summary.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The Executive Summary is the most important section of your business plan. It provides a concise overview of the entire plan along with a history of your company. This section tells your reader where your company is and where you want to take it. It's the first thing your readers see. Therefore, it is the thing that will either grab their interest and make them want to keep reading -- or make them want to put it down and forget about it. More than anything else, this section is important because it tells the reader &amp;quot;why&amp;quot; you think your...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan.html</link><description><![CDATA[ A marketing plan helps you establish, direct and coordinate your marketing efforts. Preparing a marketing plan forces you to assess what's going on in your marketplace and how it affects your business. It also provides a benchmark for later measurement. Often, simply embarking on the process of preparing a marketing plan guides you in developing a successful marketing strategy. Just as a road map guides you on a journey, a marketing plan guides you and your staff to reach your goals; it keeps you from getting off- course. Representatives from organizations that plan to lend you money or invest...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Setting Personal Goals</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/setting-personal-goals.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Personal goal setting is especially important when you are operating your own business. Because your business will have an impact on every other area of your life, it is critical to consider how it affects your life and your own goals. Defining and aligning your business objectives and your personal goals in life will help you focus and set appropriate priorities. Some of the other benefits that can come from personal goal-setting are: -Know, do and have more -Use your mind and talents fully -Have more purpose and direction in life -Make better decisions -Be more organized and effective...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Planning Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-planning-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Business plan information is in ready supply on the internet. Entering the phrase &amp;quot;business planning&amp;quot; as a search term in one search engine produced almost 90,000 matches. The real challenge is to sift through all this information to find what is truly useful. Starting an entrepreneurial venture is challenging enough without having to spend days wading through sites trying to find what you need to put together your plan. In this feature we will take a look at some of the best of the resources available, including good places to find the information you need to put in your...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Personal Financial Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/personal-financial-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Financial planning is often thought of as a way to manage debt, but a good financial plan really is a way to make certain that you have financial security throughout your life. Many small business owners consider their business as their investment in their future, but that is a huge risk to take. As any economist will tell you, diversification is the only sure way to create security in the long run. Your business is one stream of income. Putting together a financial plan that allows for multiple streams of income is what provides you security in the longer...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plan Mistakes</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plan-mistakes.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Often you may hear about what a business plan needs to contain. While including the necessary items is very important, you also want to make sure you don't commit any of the following common business plan mistakes: 1. Putting it off. Don't wait to write a plan until you absolutely have to. Too many businesses make business plans only when they have no choice in the matter. Unless the bank or the investors want a plan, there is no plan. Don't wait to write your plan until you think you'll have enough time. &amp;quot;There's not enough time for a...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans - Marketing and Sales Strategies</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans-marketing-and-sales-strategies.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Marketing is the process of creating customers -- and customers are the lifeblood of your business. In this section, the first thing you want to do is define your marketing strategy. There is no single &amp;quot;right&amp;quot; way to approach a marketing strategy. Your marketing strategy should be part of an ongoing self-evaluation process, and unique to your company. However, there are steps you can follow which will help you &amp;quot;think through&amp;quot; the strategy you would like to use. An Overall Marketing Strategy would include a: Market penetration strategy Strategy for growing your business. This growth strategy might include: an...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan Components</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-components.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Marketing plans vary by industry, by size of company and by stage of growth. The form isn't as important as the process of preparing it. Preparing a marketing plan is a process that makes you think about your business goals and what your marketing strategy will be to achieve those goals. This is an outline of a typical marketing plan. Your marketing plan may contain all or just some of these components, depending on your company type, stage of growth, and goals. I. Executive Summary Introduces your company and explains the major points of your plan Briefly describe the...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Office/Space Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/office-space-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Office planning, while critical to running your business efficiently, is usually done less frequently than other types of planning, partly because once you have a good work flow in place, you don't need to tinker with it often unless you have major changes in other aspects of your organization. Here are some issues you will want to consider in planning your office: Budget How much can you afford for space? What is the maximum amount your are willing to spend? What is the ideal amount to spend? Employees Number of employees by type of work they do? Amount and...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Legal Plan</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/legal-plan.html</link><description><![CDATA[ A legal plan for a small business should consider all the activities in the business that might have legal implications. There is no particular format for a legal plan. Simply list in a notebook, the legal issues you foresee and how you plan on addressing them. Here are some legal issues you may wish to plan for: The legal structure for your business The federal, state, and local legal requirements for operating a business Selecting a lawyer Business succession planning Bankruptcy Crime Discrimination Debt Collection Computer Fraud and Abuse Intellectual Property Labor and Employment Landlord and Tenant Personal Injury...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Small Business Administration (SBA) Business Plan Outline</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/small-business-administration-sba-business-plan-outline.html</link><description><![CDATA[ What goes in a business plan? This is an excellent question. And, it is one that many new and potential small business owners should ask, but oftentimes don't ask. The body of the business plan can be divided into four distinct sections: 1) the description of the business, 2) the marketing plan, 3) the financial management plan and 4) the management plan. Addenda to the business plan should include the executive summary, supporting documents and financial projections. Business Plan Outline Cover Sheet Statement of Purpose Table of Contents I. The Business A. Description of Business B. Marketing C. Competition...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Mission, Values, Vision</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/mission-values-vision.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Some of the most overused and misunderstood words in the planning lingo are mission, vision and values. Yet most people can relate to a personal vision, their personal values, and their mission in life even if they are not expressed in those words. Used appropriately, they can provide inspiration and momentum to a business. Mission is what you want to achieve by starting the business. This must be reexamined and refreshed periodically if an organization is to remain dynamic. Mission statements describe the overall purpose of an organization: what you do, who you do it for, and how and...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Marketing Objectives and Strategies</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-marketing-objectives-and-strategies.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Meeting marketing objectives should lead to sales. (If not, you need to set different marketing objectives.) They should: -Be clear -Be measurable, and -Have a stated time frame for achievement. Examples of marketing objectives follow: Increase product awareness among the target audience by 30 percent in one year. Inform target audience about features and benefits of our product and its competitive advantage, leading to a 10 percent increase in sales in one year. Decrease or remove potential customers' resistance to buying our product, leading to a 20 percent increase in sales that are closed in six months or less....]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Current Situation</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-current-situation.html</link><description><![CDATA[ In the Current Situation section of your marketing plan, you will provide information about your location, target market and competitive environment. you will briefly describe the competitive environment and key issues your company faces in this section; more detail is provided in the Competitor and Issue Analysis section. Location Describe your current or planned business location. If you do not yet have a business location, name areas or properties under consideration and the criteria you will use in selecting a location. Consider customer proximity, parking availability, accessibility by public transportation employee availability, inventory storage and movement, compliance with federal,...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Human Resources Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/human-resources-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Human resources planning is often overlooked by small businesses. Happy employees are a valuable asset to helping a business succeed. Planning employee recruitment and development can go a long way towards the quality of your business. Here are some resources to help put a good plan together. Basic Framework for a Training and Development Plan Detailed discussion of planning training programs. Development and Contents of a Performance Plan Performance planning not just for the employee, but for the organization as a whole. New (or Revisited) HR Planning Tools Some new and old tools that aid in the planning process....]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plans</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plans.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Ask any business expert for advice on what is most important for the success of a business and the vast majority will cite writing and using a business plan as a critical component for success. Almost every lender will require some type of plan before lending any money to a business. However, ask most new entrepreneurs if they have written a business plan and a common answer will be &amp;quot;no.&amp;quot; Why is this advice, noted prominently in all startup literature, not being heeded? Many small business owners run their businesses without a written plan. Would you ever consider going...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Operations/Production Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/operations-production-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ How efficient you produce your product and/or service affects the cost and quality of what you produce. An operations plan can make all the difference in your production. Here are some topics that are important to cover in planning your operations. Crisis Management How to be prepared for the worst. Office Space and Equipment Choosing and designing your space. Key Questions When Planning a Computer System Important areas to cover with the plan. Program Planning and Management Feasibility and implementation planning. Technology Planning Tools Written for planning in a school, but generalizable to any technology planning. &amp;amp;nbsp; More about...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Design Your Plan to Fit Your Business</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/design-your-plan-to-fit-your-business.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Business planning is about results. For every business plan, you need to make the contents of your plan match your purpose. Don't accept a standard outline just because it's there. In the United States business market there is a standardization about business plans. You can find dozens of books on the subject, about as many websites, two or three serious software products, and courses in hundreds of business schools, night schools, and community colleges. Although there are many variations on the theme, a lot of it still falls into the same standard. What is a Business Plan? A business...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business Plan Maintenance</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-plan-maintenance.html</link><description><![CDATA[ A business plan is not a one-time document, at least it shouldn't be. Most businesses put together a business plan during their start-up phase to organize, attract partners and employees, and to try and get a loan or financial investment. This is a great use of a business plan, however far too often once the company has started up the plan isn't touched again. Ultimately, a business plan is about results, about making your business better. If you don't think doing a business plan will improve your business, then don't do one. Planning for planning's sake is a waste...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: The Executive Summary</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-the-executive-summary.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The Executive Summary section of your marketing plan allows you to introduce your company and explain the major points of your plan in a nutshell. A number of people lack the time and interest to read your entire marketing plan; nonetheless, they need to understand what it is basically about. The Executive Summary is for them. you will need to write it after the other sections have been written, since it's a summary of their major points. Some of the key points to cover are listed below: Introduce your company by briefly describing the nature of your business and...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Strategic Planning: Not Just for Big Business</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/strategic-planning-not-just-for-big-business.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Strategic planning has become a concept that is commonly suggested as the &amp;quot;solution&amp;quot; to many business problems. Some days it appears that the chief product of many businesses is their strategic plan. Don't misunderstand me, strategic plans are wonderful when used appropriately, but they do need to be a tool of a business, not a goal unto themselves. And, most definitely, they should not be a major consumer of valuable employer/employee time. Many entrepreneurial ventures mistakenly belief that strategic planning is only for large businesses that can afford the time and personnel to develop a sound plan. However, if...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Competitive Analysis</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/competitive-analysis.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Competitive Analysis - For Creative Cuisine Factors: Priority (*) Creative Cuisine Boston Market Bertucci's Peking Garden Supermarket Overall Rating High ***** *** **** *** ** Customer Service High ***** ** ** ** ** Convenience High ***** *** *** ***** *** Quality of meals High ***** *** **** *** ** Selection of meals High ***** *** *** *** ** Healthy options High ***** ** *** *** ** Low-fat options Moderate ***** ** ** *** ** Vegetarian options Moderate ***** ** *** *** ** Unique options Moderate ***** ** *** ** ** Meal Price/Value Moderate *** **** **** *** *** Product...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Management Planning</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/management-planning.html</link><description><![CDATA[ How efficient you produce your product and/or service affects the cost and quality of what you produce. An operations plan can make all the difference in your production. Here are some topics that are important to cover in planning your operations. Crisis Management How to be prepared for the worst. Office Space and Equipment Choosing and designing your space. Key Questions When Planning a Computer System Important areas to cover with the plan. Program Planning and Management Feasibility and implementation planning. Technology Planning Tools Written for planning in a school, but generalizable to any technology planning. &amp;amp;nbsp; More about...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Competitive Analysis Example</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/competitive-analysis-example.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Competitive Analysis of Creative Cuisine, the business being planned, with other restaurants in the area. Factors: Priority (*) Creative Cuisine Boston Market Bertucci's Peking Garden Supermarket Overall Rating High ***** *** **** *** ** Customer Service High ***** ** ** ** ** Convenience High ***** *** *** ***** *** Quality of meals High ***** *** **** *** ** Selection of meals High ***** *** *** *** ** Healthy options High ***** ** *** *** ** Low-fat options Moderate ***** ** ** *** ** Vegetarian options Moderate ***** ** *** *** ** Unique options Moderate ***** ** *** ** **...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan Outline</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-outline.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Current Year Performance Summary of how your company and its products and/or services performed so far this year Recommendations Objectives in units and sales and expenditures needed to achieve those sales; objectives support the company's marketing goals The goal is typically achievable, quantifiable, timely, and supports the company's vision and mission Objectives are broad statements of what needs to be done to support the company's marketing goal; each objective focuses on a specific accomplishment to be achieved using various marketing and communications elements Profit and Loss Effect of the Recommendation Summary of marketing effects over three-year period (last year,...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Business/Industry Information</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/business-industry-information.html</link><description><![CDATA[ American Business Compiled results of census surveys of business with the latest economic indicators, company data, trade data and business data. You can access online reports on trades and services, housing, manufacturing, retail sales, household income, poverty, new homes sales, comparative industry reports and much more, in the form of charts, graphs and comparative studies. Associations Online Find associations, people, and businesses through the search engine of the American Society of Association Executives. Federal Information Center Reference site for information about Federal agencies, programs, and services. Department of Labor Research Library One of the oldest Cabinet-level libraries. Large segments...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Action Plan</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-action-plan.html</link><description><![CDATA[ In the Action Programs section of your marketing plan, you're basically developing a very detailed promotions &amp;quot;to do&amp;quot; list. It's a task list that describes what will be done, when it will begin or be completed, who will accomplish the tasks, and so on. The Action Plan picks up where the Promotion Plan leaves off. Whereas the Promotion Plan might state that your company will participate in industry trade shows, the Action Program lists the trade shows and their dates, your objectives for attending each one, which company representatives will be sent, the results you expect, the marketing tactics...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Internet Information Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/internet-information-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ CyberAtlas Market research data on web usage. Global Internet Statistics Internet usage around the world broken down by language. Internet Intelligence Index Links to over 600 intelligence-related Internet sites. &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Market Planning Examples</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/market-planning-examples.html</link><description><![CDATA[ As you know, there's not just one formula for what makes a good marketing plan; marketing plans can be modified according to the needs of specific businesses. To see how several businesses wrote their marketing plans or components of them, here are some examples: Mosaic Buttons (Store) Creative Cuisine (Personal Chef Service) Competitive Analysis Chart &amp;amp;nbsp; More about Marketing Plans More about Marketing Books on Planning...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Competitor and Issues Analysis</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-competitor-and-issues-analysis.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The purpose of the Competitor and Issues Analysis section of your marketing plan is to explain in detail the external challenges and opportunities your business may face. Some of the benefits of doing a competitor and issues analysis are: you will discover your company's competitive advantage - the reason customers do business with you instead of your competition. Then you will be able to communicate your competitive advantage effectively to win potential customers. Analyzing current issues and your competitors' offerings may spur ideas for innovative improvements to your product offerings. You might find that there are some categories of...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Local Information Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/local-information-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ State Business Resources Business Resources in each of the states. Big Book Yellow pages, city pages, consumer guide and classifieds. International Demography and Population Studies An internet guide to demography and population studies information. Fedstats Site maintained by the Federal Interagency Council on Statistical Policy to provide easy access to statistics and information produced by more than 70 agencies in the United States Federal Government. Local Small Business Administration Resources Direct links to SBA offices nationwide. United States Chamber of Commerce Statistical data plus links to local chamber offices. &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Global Information Resources</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/global-information-resources.html</link><description><![CDATA[ The CIA Global Factbook A CIA compilation of details on geography, people, government, economy, transportation, communications for countries around the world. Corporate Information Corporate information from around the world. International Demography and Population Studies An internet guide to demography and population studies information. Europages The European Business Directory. The European Patent Office Patent information for Europe. GDSourcing Research and Retrieval Canadian statistics, demographics, market research, industry research, social and economic indicators. Global Internet Statistics Internet usage around the world broken down by language. Kompass Business to Business search engine. International information on companies, products, services, executives, trade and brand...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>General Reference Information</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/general-reference-information.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Demography and Population Studies An internet guide to demography and population studies information. Federal Reserve Board Financial data including both current and historical information. Fedstats Site maintained by the Federal Interagency Council on Statistical Policy to provide easy access to statistics and information produced by more than 70 agencies in the United States Federal Government. My Virtual Reference Desk A huge almanac of facts. Price's List of Lists Business rankings and other useful lists. &amp;amp;nbsp;...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Competitor Analysis</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-competitor-analysis.html</link><description><![CDATA[ What to address in your competitor analysis Names of competitors If you sell ice cream by the cone, your competitors include other ice cream vendors. However, you're also competing with other dessert treats offered by grocery stores as well as other items competing for consumers' discretionary funds. So, list all of your competitors and include information on any that might enter the market during the next year. Summary of each competitor's products This summary should also include their location, quality, advertising, staff, distribution methods, promotional strategies, and customer service. Competitors' strengths and weaknesses It's important to see your competitors'...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan: Issues Analysis</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-issues-analysis.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Your business will face obstacles to success in addition to those posed by the competition. Half of the battle of overcoming these external obstacles is understanding them. And half of the key to benefiting from lucky breaks is being on top of developments and events that can be used to your advantage. External Threats and Opportunities Identify, and rank by order of importance, any threats or opportunities your business may face from outside influences. Threats and opportunities come from a variety of sources including: The economic outlook of your market's economy -- Are you starting your business in a...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item><item><title>Marketing Plan Sample</title><link>http://www.smallbusinessnotes.com/starting-a-business/marketing-plan-sample.html</link><description><![CDATA[ Mission Statement Technically, the mission statement is in the opening of the entire Business Plan, of which the Marketing Plan is a part. It's included here for the reader's information... Mosaic intends to supply Michigan with the most visually interesting buttons available today. They will delight their users and provide a springboard for creative activity. Mosaic believes artistic expression enhances life. It appreciates the skill of human hands and the sensitivity of human hearts. It regards buttons as small works of art in which we are able to see ourselves. Mosaic's Marketing Plan: History &amp;amp;amp; Description Mosaic is a...]]></description><pubDate>November  1, 2010  5:15 PM</pubDate></item></rss>