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What is a Business Plan?

couple, couple planning,planning

What is a business plan? Before you look at how to write a business plan and start the business research process you need to know what a business plan is and what it involves.

A business plan is a document that covers all of the essential areas of your business. It outlines the who, what, when, where, why and how of your business idea.


A business plan is used to show the viability of your idea. Writing a business plan will force you to give thought to all areas of the business.

Writing a plan will help you to crystallize the vision that you have for your business and to develop strategies for realizing that vision.


The need to start well is just as important whether you are running an online or off-line business. For successful website promotion you will need a well thought out Step-By-Step Marketing Plan that provides the building blocks for developing an effective advertising campaign.

Purpose of a Business Plan

The purpose and elements of a business plan.

One of the main reasons for writing a business plan is to work out the amount of money needed for your business start up funding.

Many people going into business underestimate the amount of start up funds that will be required. Writing a business plan forces you to examine this area critically.

If you need help with your business plan take a look at the templates available over to the right of this page.

Reputable lenders will not grant you finance approval without seeing a well researched, viable business plan. But that should not be your only reason for writing one.

On or off line business?

Even if you are operating an online business don't underestimate your need to start well. For help with successful website promotion please see this Step-By-Step Marketing Plan. It provides the building blocks for developing an effective advertising campaign.


Creating a Business Plan

There are many components to a successful business plan.

Once completed a successful business plan will show:

  • the future direction of your business,
  • how you plan to get there, and
  • the measures by which you will monitor your performance.

There are many benefits associated with writing a business plan. Writing a business plan forces you to carefully consider all areas of your business including marketing, operations and staffing.

Having a business plan:

  • will show you if your business idea is viable,
  • helps you to set objectives for your business,
  • reveals threats and opportunities you may not have considered,
  • can show gaps in your planning,
  • gives you direction and keeps you focused,
  • clarifies partnership responsibilities by allowing all involved to see the 'big picture', and
  • increases your chance of business success. (Australian Bureau of Statistics reports show that many businesses struggle to stay in business beyond their first year. The majority of those who fold in their first year do not understand the importance of what is a business plan.


Your Business Blueprint

The more detail that goes into your plan the greater your chance of success. Successful owners know their product, their market and their customers well. They are aware of their business' strengths and weaknesses. They set goals and objectives to maximise their outcomes in each of these areas.

Having a business plan will help you to chart the direction of your business. Look at it like a road map for where you're headed and how you plan to get there. A business plan is your business blueprint.

Once your plan is written don't just file it away never to be seen again. Refer to it often and make adjustments where necessary. A regular review of your plan will keep you focused, on track and ahead of your competition.

More information about what is a business plan and how to write one.

For Professional Advice & Assistance

Would you would like professional advice and assistance in writing a business plan? Or do you need someone to write your plan for you?
Find out why writing a business plan is a critical component to the business of your business.

For more on business plans

how to write a business plan

purpose of a business plan

before you make business plan

business plan layout

components of a business plan






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