Creating a professional business plan
Creating a business plan is a crucial step for every company, regardless of its size or industry. A well-thought-out business plan not only serves as a guide for company management, but also as an important basis for potential investors or financing partners. The business plan should be both the basis for presenting the abstract, entrepreneurial idea and the first step in the operational implementation of the entrepreneurial ambitions. Here you can describe how you specifically want to achieve your goals. Although there is no set standard for the structure of a business plan, there are certain elements that should be included in most business plans.
Text part of the business plan
The body of a business plan is often the first impression that potential investors or financing partners get of your company, so it is important to make this part as detailed and compelling as possible. Here are some key elements that should be included in the body of a business plan:
- Business idea and service offering: A clear and concise description of your business idea and the product or service you offer.
- Location description: Information about your company's location and its advantages and potential challenges.
- Target group and target region: A detailed description of your target audience and the region in which your business will operate.
- Market analysis: An analysis of the market in which you will operate, including potential growth opportunities and risks.
- Competitive analysis: An assessment of your main competitors and their strengths and weaknesses in comparison to your company.
- Marketing plan: Your strategy for marketing your business and products or services, including advertising, sales and public relations.
- Pricing: Information about your pricing strategy and the reasons for your pricing.
- Personnel planning: Your plans for recruiting and developing employees and organizing your workforce.
- Structural data of the project: Technical details about your product or service as well as information about your suppliers and manufacturers.
- Implementation schedule: A timetable for implementing your business idea and achieving your goals.
- SWOT analysis: An analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats with regard to your company and your industry.
Financial part of the business plan
The financial section of a business plan is just as important as the text section and provides an overview of the financial aspects of your business. Here are some important elements that should be included in the financial section of a business plan:
- Investment planning / capital requirement plan: A detailed breakdown of the investments required to start or expand your business.
- Financing model: Information about your business's financing, including equity, debt, and potential investors.
- Repayment plan / interest plan: A forecast of the repayment rates and interest payments for any loans or credits taken out.
- Operating cost planning: A breakdown of your business's ongoing operating costs, including rent, salaries, insurance and utilities.
- Sales forecast / sales planning: A forecast of your future sales on a monthly or annual basis.
- Gross profit calculation: A calculation of your business's gross profit based on your expected sales and associated costs.
- Planned income overview / profitability plan: An overview of your business's profitability, including profit and loss statements and cash flow forecasts.
- Minimum turnover calculation: A calculation of the minimum revenue your business needs to break even and make a profit.
- Liquidity plan: A forecast of your future liquidity based on your expected income and expenses.
Additional elements of the business plan
In addition to the above content, a professional business plan should also include a table of contents, an appendix and, if necessary, other supplementary information.
If you need assistance in setting up and writing your business plan, we are here to help. Simply contact us and we will be happy to provide you with a quote tailored to your specific needs.