How to write a business plan?

I have so many different business ideas and I get new ones every day. But I'm having trouble getting any of these started, or if I do manage to at least start something, I quickly lose focus and move onto something else. I can't keep doing this or I'll never be successful.

I think I've figured out my problem. I never write detailed business plans for any of these projects. So I think it's time for me to sit down and write myself a very detailed business plan and then stick with that plan and that plan only, until I'm making enough to start funding some of my other business ideas.

But I don't know how to write a business plan. In the past I've never needed a plan, but now I do and I have no idea where to start. I know there's a lot of successful people here on DP. Can any of you tell me how to start my business plan? Or give me a link to a good resource?

Thanks in advance!

-Amanda

 

amanda,

i can help you to write a business plan, but i think that a project plan will serve you better. anyway send me a pm with what you have in mind and your e-mail address.

it will be like e-mail coaching

 

I think your best bet is to take an idea, and start writing down pros, cons, goals, targets and what it would take to achieve those targets.

from there you can then start looking into a business plan.

 

go to Startup Nation.com a great community and learning site for new businesses!

 

Surprised no on mentioned.
sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/plan/writeabusinessplan/index.html

 

Theres a website that you can view their samples and outline of how to make this work.

 

true, you can go to sba or score. However for general help I suggest Start Up Nation.

 

I've never heard of these two websites. Thanks for the reference.

 

I have been a small business enthusiast since 2003/2004.

www.startupnation.com and www.score.org

 

Thanks, we're going to have to chat sometime.

 

It may be worth visiting your local bank to see if they can offer you any help. In the UK most banks give out packs that have a CD with some business planning software and cash flow forecasting software. They also have little books offering useful tips and advice. If you're unsure where to start, the booklets can offer you a good stepping stone for futher reasearch. The planning software is pretty generic (if you're doing something more complicated than a typical shop / service business then you'll need to change it) but it's still a nice template, and makes sure you've covered all the bases.

 

Have a look at this site

http://www.onepagebusinessplan.com/sample_plans.html

A one page business plan is great, you don't have to go into too much detail but you still have a guideline to follow.

Start of by putting in what you want to achieve over the next 3-5 years. i.e. Create a website to rival google.

Then the strategies you are going to use to get there. i.e. I will utilise Video and Youtube marketing

Then the plans which you are going to put into place (with dates). i.e. I will submit 30 videos to Youtube by 30/04

Hope it helps

 

You can find free templates online you just need to fill in the blanks.