Business plans have a bit of a bad rep amongst many entrepreneurs. Some find the idea of business plans daunting, others claim to be too busy to write one, and a few even consider them a waste of time (usually because they’re “not looking for investment”), however, creating a business plan isn’t just about raising investment, it’s a crucial part of your company planning, guidance, and communication.

But if it isn’t something solely used for putting in front of investors, what is a business plan? 

The best approach is to view your plan as a living document; a roadmap that allows you to dodge potential obstacles, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities as they arise, and a plan should adapt, grow, and evolve as your business does.

As well as acting as a roadmap, a well-structured plan can offer significant benefits to entrepreneurs, whether you're starting a new business or looking to scale an existing one:

1. Clarity of Vision: A business plan forces you to articulate your business idea comprehensively and, often more importantly, concisely, ensuring that you have a clear sense of purpose and direction for your business. 

2. Effective Resource Allocation: With a business plan, you'll be able to allocate resources more efficiently. You'll have a clear understanding of your budget, enabling you to allocate funds where they will have the most significant impact on your business's growth.

3. Alignment with your Team: For businesses with a team, a well-structured plan keeps everyone on the same page. Building the business plan together will ensure that your executive team and employees understand the company's objectives and are working together towards common goals.

4. Measuring Progress: A plan serves as a benchmark against which you can measure your progress. You can track your achievements, assess whether you're meeting your goals, and make adjustments as needed. This ability to monitor performance keeps you accountable and adaptable.

5. Flexibility and Adaptation: While a business plan provides structure, it also needs to be flexible. As your business evolves, you can update your plan to reflect changing circumstances, strategies, or goals. This adaptability allows you to pivot when necessary and seize new opportunities.

Convinced? Great! So, where should you start?

Part 1: Getting Started - Do your Research and Preparation

Getting started with writing your business plan can feel overwhelming. Many an entrepreneur has been faced with ‘blank page syndrome’, however there are some easy steps you can take to get started with the process before you even type ‘Business Plan’ at the top of your page. 

Step 1. Clearly Define Your Business Idea

To effectively define your business idea, you'll need to do the following:

1. Identify Your Unique Value: Consider your interests, strengths, and experience. Your business idea should align with your interests and expertise, as this will keep you motivated and focused in the long run. You may be keen to own a restaurant, but if you’ve never worked in a restaurant before or you are particularly introverted, consider an industry more suited to your skillset and personality.

2. Problem-Solution Fit: Successful businesses identify and solve a specific problem. Think about the pain points or challenges your potential customers face and develop a solution that addresses those issues uniquely and effectively.

3. Unique Value Proposition (UVP): Your business idea should have a clear undefined that sets you apart from competitors. What will make your product or service special? How will it provide more value or solve problems better than existing alternatives? You should be able to communicate your UVP in a sentence. If you can’t, your customers won’t understand why they should come to you. 

4. Test Your Idea: Before fully committing to your business idea, test it on a smaller scale. By following this process, you can ensure that your idea is well-defined, viable, and ready to be elaborated upon in your comprehensive business plan.

Step 2. Develop a Deep Understanding of Your Target Audience

The next step is to get under the skin of undefined. Get nosey. Really get to know the characteristics, needs, preferences, and behaviours of the people or businesses that are most likely to become your customers.

Take the following steps to understand your target audience:

1. Market Research: Conduct comprehensive market research to gather data about your potential customers. This includes demographic information (age, gender, location), psychographic details (lifestyle, values, interests), and firmographic data (for B2B businesses).

2. Competitor Analysis: Analyse your competitors to see who they are targeting. Identify gaps in the market that they may be missing or underserving. This can help you find opportunities to cater to a specific segment of your target audience.

3. Feedback and Surveys: Engage with your potential customers through surveys, focus groups, or online communities. Ask for feedback on your idea and use their input to refine your business plan.

4. Segmentation: Segment your target audience into smaller groups based on shared characteristics or behaviours to create more personalized marketing strategies for each segment.

Also remember, understanding your target audience is not a one-time effort; it's an ongoing process that should evolve as your business grows.

Step 3. Next, Research Your Industry and Market

Take some time to research your industry and market. This involves gaining insights into the larger business environment in which your company will operate. This could mean looking at patterns and shifts in consumer behavior, industry developments, or socioeconomic factors that will influence the demand for your products or services. 

This knowledge allows you to anticipate customer needs and adapt your business strategy accordingly. Additionally, by keeping an eye out for potential opportunities in the marketplace, such as gaps in the competition or underserved customer segments, you can capitalize on untapped markets and develop new revenue streams.

This may sound complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. 

Let’s say you want to open a coffee shop. Your industry research might involve: 

• Going to different coffee shops in the area you have in mind, and seeing the types of coffee and other products they offer and making note of their hours of operation, ambiance, and seating arrangements, or 

• Researching how the cost price of coffee might be affected due to climate change, or instability in coffee-producing regions

• Checking out different types of barista training programs you could implement at your shop

• Your market research on the other hand, could be that you: 

• Survey friends, family, and local residents about their coffee preferences.

• Ask them how often they visit coffee shops and what they value most (e.g., flavor, speed, ambiance).

• Research online for coffee consumption trends in your city or country. (Google Trends is your friend!)

Step 4. Set Clear Objectives

Now that you’ve done thorough research on your customer, industry and market, and have some facts to work with, it’s time to look forward and chart your course. 

Objectives provide direction, focus, and a sense of purpose for both your business and your plan. Here's how to set clear objectives:

1. Mission Statement: Begin with a mission statement that defines the core purpose and values of your business. This statement should capture the essence of why your company exists and what it aims to achieve.

A great framework for a mission statement, designed by author Simon Sinek in his great book ‘Start with Why’, is “We….. (what it is that we do) so that…….. (the outcome of our work)”. Our example of that at Rauva would be “We simplify business banking so that entrepreneurship is democratised”.

Getting this level of clarity on your company mission can act as a guiding light for every decision you need to make. 

2. Long-Term Goals: Outline your long-term objectives, often referred to as "big-picture" goals. These are your aspirations for where you want the company to be in several years. Include metrics like revenue targets, market share, or expansion plans.

3. Short-Term Goals: Break down your long-term goals into shorter-term objectives. These are the specific, measurable targets you aim to achieve within the next one to three years. Short-term goals can include milestones like product launches, customer acquisition targets, or revenue growth.

4. SMART Goals: Use the SMART criteria to set objectives that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework ensures that your goals are clear and actionable.

5. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Identify the KPIs that will help you track your progress toward achieving your objectives. KPIs are quantifiable metrics that provide insights into how well your business is performing. Are you moving the needle? Are you doing things each day that move you towards your company goals? Common KPIs include customer retention rates, conversion rates, and profitability margins.

6. Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential risks and challenges that may hinder your ability to achieve your objectives. Develop contingency plans to address these risks and mitigate their impact on your business.

7. Alignment: Ensure that your objectives align with your overall business strategy. Your goals should support your mission statement and fit within the larger context of your industry and market. 

8. Regular Review: Objectives are not set in stone. Regularly review and reassess your goals to account for changes in the business environment, market conditions, or internal factors. Adjust your objectives as needed to stay on track.

9. Communication: Clearly communicate your objectives to your team members and stakeholders. Everyone in your organization should understand the goals and work collectively to achieve them.

Part 2: Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Each Section of Your Business Plan

Want the good news? Now that you’ve conducted your research and got some clarity on your business idea and direction, the next part - actually writing the business plan, should be a breeze!

Step 1. Decide on your Business Plan Format (Traditional vs. Lean Canvas)

First, you need to decide which format you'll use to write your business plan, and there are a couple of main types of business plans to choose from.

A traditional business plan is the classic, comprehensive roadmap for your business. It provides a detailed overview of your company, its mission, vision, and long-term goals. 

Whether you opt for a traditional business plan or a lean canvas approach depends on your business's nature and goals. Traditional plans suit established businesses with predictable markets, while lean canvas plans are ideal for innovative ventures.

Step 2. Write your Executive Summary - Conciseness is key!

An executive summary is a lean yet comprehensive overview of your entire business plan, highlighting the most critical aspects of your company's vision, objectives, and strategies, and summarizing it all into a few concise paragraphs. It serves as a snapshot of your business plan and is typically the first section that potential investors or stakeholders read.

Step 3. Craft a Compelling Introduction

Your business plan's introduction sets the tone for the entire document. Craft an introduction that captivates and engages your readers. This is where you might include your mission statement, concept, and high-level goals. Don’t go into too much detail. You’ll do that later in the plan.

Step 4. Company Description - Defining Your Company's Identity

This section introduces your company to the reader, providing essential information about your business, its history, and its core values. It sets the stage for the reader to understand your company's identity and purpose.

Step 5. Market Analysis - Identifying Market Trends and Opportunities

In this section, you delve into the industry in which your company operates, analyse market trends, and define your target audience. It helps investors and stakeholders understand the broader context of your business.

Step 6. Products and Services - Describing Your Offerings

This section outlines the products or services your company provides. It should showcase your offerings' unique features, benefits, and value proposition.

Pro tip: Start with one thing. Even Amazon started by only selling books. Associated products should come after you’ve proven you can sell your core product. 

Step 7. Organisational Structure - Outlining Your Team and Roles

Your team is the backbone of your business. This section should outline the internal framework of your company, including the hierarchy, roles, and responsibilities of key team members, emphasising their qualifications and roles.

Step 8. Financial Projections - How the Business will Make Money

Step 9. The Appendix: Adding Depth to Your Plan

The appendix is your plan's secret weapon, housing supplementary information that adds depth and credibility. It's good practice to include detailed financial projections, legal documents, testimonials and references, and any sales commitments or market validations.

Chapter 3: Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Writing a Business Plan

Lots of entrepreneurs make similar mistakes when writing their business plans, and indeed starting their businesses. 

Overlooking Market Research - One of the most common pitfalls to avoid when you write your business plan is overlooking the importance of thorough market research. Neglecting to gather comprehensive data on your target market can lead to misguided strategies and unrealistic expectations.

Unrealistic Financial Forecasts - Unrealistic projections can be a significant stumbling block for entrepreneurs. While it's natural to be optimistic about the future of your business, overly ambitious revenue and profit estimates will erode the credibility of your business plan, and if you will be using the plan to seek investment, investors will pay close attention to this section and if there are any holes in your projections, investors will lose interest quickly.

Neglecting Competitor Analysis - Neglecting competitor analysis is another pitfall that can undermine your business plan's effectiveness. Understanding your competitors' strengths and weaknesses, market positioning, and strategies is essential for crafting a plan that sets your business apart. 

If you have a competitor that is absolutely fantastic, explain why they are so good, and what your advantage over them might be. Even the smallest, most inexperienced business owner has an advantage over their competitors.

Chapter 4: Presenting Your Business Plan

Presenting your business plan effectively is a critical step in gaining support from investors, lenders, or stakeholders.

Preparing for Investor Meetings - Preparation is key when it comes to investor meetings. Once you've crafted your business plan and are ready to meet with potential investors, thorough preparation is essential. Review your business plan in detail, ensuring you can speak confidently about its contents. Anticipate questions that investors may ask, especially regarding financial projections and market strategies.

Pitching Your Business Plan Effectively - undefined involves more than just delivering a presentation—it's about conveying your passion, vision, and the unique value your business offers.

Addressing Questions and Concerns - Addressing questions and concerns that arise during discussions about your business plan is a crucial skill for any entrepreneur.

Chapter 5: Resources and Tools

Resources and tools play a crucial role in the business planning process.

Business Plan Templates - Business plan templates are invaluable assets for entrepreneurs looking to create a structured and professional plan.

Online Tools and Software - Online tools and software have revolutionized the business planning landscape, offering entrepreneurs and business owners innovative ways to create, manage, and collaborate on business plans.

Professional Assistance - Sometimes, seeking professional assistance can be a wise decision when creating a business plan, especially if you're dealing with complex financial projections or aiming for a highly detailed plan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a well-crafted business plan serves as the cornerstone of success for both new startups and established companies. It's a comprehensive document that outlines a company's objectives and the strategies it will employ to achieve those goals. The importance of a business plan cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in attracting investors, securing financing, and guiding a company's operations.

A business plan is not merely a formality but a dynamic tool that provides a roadmap for a company's journey. It keeps both internal and external stakeholders informed about the company's vision and mission. For startups, it's often the key to securing essential funding and getting off the ground, and for established businesses, it's a compass for adapting to new challenges and opportunities.

Key Takeaways

For those just starting their entrepreneurial journey, embarking on the process of creating a business plan might seem daunting. However, it's essential to remember that every successful business once started with a plan. Take it step by step, focusing on the key elements that matter most to your business, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or professionals if needed. 

Importance of Continuous Plan Review

Lastly, remember that a business plan should not be a static document. It should evolve along with your business. Regularly review and update your plan to reflect changing goals, market conditions, and new information. Adaptability and flexibility are crucial in the business world. By continuously revisiting and refining your plan, you'll be better equipped to steer your company toward success in an ever-changing landscape.

A business plan is not just a document; it's a vital tool that guides your business's growth and development. Embrace it as a living document that evolves with your entrepreneurial journey, and it will serve as a beacon to illuminate the path to your business goals.

Recommended Books

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries - Emphasizes building a minimum viable product, measuring its market success, and iterating based on feedback to achieve product-market fit efficiently.

Hurdle by Tim Berry - A comprehensive guide that breaks down each step of a solid business plan.

The One Page Business Plan for the Creative Entrepreneur by Jim Horan and Tom Peters - A concise guide to crafting a business plan that fits on a single sheet.

The Art of the Start 2.0 by Guy Kawasaki - Offers advice on perfecting your pitch, bootstrapping, building your team, and more.

The Complete Book of Business Plans by Brian Hazelgren and Joseph A. Covello  -Provides multiple business plan templates and advice on staying motivated and choosing the right partners.

Successful Business Plan by Rhonda Abrams - Helps you determine the feasibility of your business plan, covering market positioning, competition, costs, funding strategies, and more.

The Founder's Dilemmas by Noam Wasserman - Focuses on staffing and leadership decisions, emphasizing the importance of these choices for the success of your business.

Anatomy of a Business Plan by Linda Pinson - A detailed guide on creating a custom business plan, covering organizational structure, goals, forecasts, and more.

Writing a Convincing Business Plan by Art deThomas - A systematic approach to crafting a business plan, focusing on business structure, goals, forecasts, and more.

Glossary of Business Plan Terms

• Business Plan formal written document that describes the nature of a business, its sales and marketing strategy, and its financial background, containing projected profit and loss statements.

• Bootstrappingtarting and growing a business without external investment or borrowing.

• Crowdfundinghe practice of funding a project or venture by raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the internet.

• Market Positioninghe effort to influence consumer perception of a brand or product relative to the perception of competing brands or products.

• Feasibility Studyn assessment of the practicality of a proposed plan or project.

• Organizational Structurehe hierarchical arrangement of lines of authority, communications, rights, and duties of an organization.

• Vision Statement company's long-term goal that describes what they want to achieve in the future.

• Mission Statement formal summary of the aims and values of a company, organization, or individual.

• Objectivespecific, measurable goals that an organization wants to achieve.