The Parts of a Business Plan

The parts of a business plan

Each business plan is different and will contain subject areas different from what I present here. If you are manufacturing a product, you might include headings such as; Manufacturing Process, Key Suppliers, Distribution Channel, etc... More information on the parts of a business plan can be found at the links on the left.

Executive Summary
Who, what , where, when, name, products & services, markets, management, objectives, investment.

Business Description
Describe the business in more detail. Optional depending on executive summary.

Market Analysis
Overall market, trends, new markets, test markets, your target market.

Competitive Analysis
Who, where, strengths, weakness, threats

Products & Services
Describe products and services and comparisons to the competition.

Location
Cost, why chosen, amenities.

Pricing
What are the market prices and cost, what is the break even, options. This could be included with products and services.

Sales & Marketing plan
What, when, cost, distribution methods, prices, terms etc.

Ownership
Who, and what form. sole proprietor, corp. LLC. etc.

Management / Operations
Staffing plan, board of directors, compensation plan, resumes and specific competence of staff.

Financial Information
Capital cost, sources of cash, pro forma P&L and cash flow statement, balance sheet ratios.

Manufacturing or Assembly Process
Inventory, key venders, methods, equipment, etc.

Exhibits
Brochures, maps, licenses, management resumes, etc.

Specific Competence
What makes you business different or is exclusive to your company alone. Patents, copyrights, technologies, etc.