Just
as a builder would not begin construction without a blueprint,
business owners should never embark upon new ventures or operate
their business without a well thought out, up-to-date business
plan.
The importance of a comprehensive business plan cannot be overemphasized
since so much hinges on it: outside funding, credit from suppliers,
management of your operation and finances, promotion and marketing
of your business and achievement of your goals and objectives.
Any worthwhile endeavor requires planning. Thinking through and
drafting a business plan will help you chart a course of your
new or existing business. It is an opportunity to clearly define
the goals of your company and outline the methods by which you
plan to achieve them.
Too
often in the past, business owners only thought of their business
plan when planning for financial assistance. However, savvy, successful
business owners embrace their business plan as a planning tool
for every aspect of business.
Today's
entrepreneurs understand the benefits to their business when they
use their business plans to set goals and objectives for the overall
operation of their business. They are reviewing their management
team and skill sets. The marketing plan and analysis of the competition
are adjusted for fluctuations over the past period. Staffing plans
are updated to reflect changes in skill requirements and census
numbers to match business needs.
Along
with the business plan, the company's disaster preparedness plan
should be reviewed and updated as well. Given the storm events
of the past two years, we are too aware of the need for planning
for emergencies. Should you not have your disaster preparedness
plan, the guide can be found at www.pureeconomics.org and click
on Publications, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on
Disaster Preparedness and Continuity Guide. This guide was developed
for Charlotte County business owners. Becoming familiar with the
content and completing the forms included will help the business
owner increase the odds that their business will make it through
the next disaster, as well as providing the information needed
to develop a comprehensive business disaster continuity plan.
Betty
Williams is economic development manager for Charlotte County's
Economic Development Office. www.PureEconomics.org and e-mail:
PureEconomics@charlottecountyfl.com.
