Map out a realistic business plan from scratch Need a hand with your business strategy? This straightforward guide leads you through all the main aspects of business planning, from clarifying objectives, to finding funding and researching customer behaviour. It contains the latest information on planning methods and initiatives (including planning in turbulent times).



Realise your long-term goals - understand what you want from your business and where you are headed


Check out the competition - practise the latest market research techniques to best position your business


Sort out your finances - construct a value chain, examine your cash-flow and calculate a sensible budget


Prepare for change - learn to read cultural, political and technological trends and develop strategic alternatives



Open the book and find:



Tips on writing a motivational mission statement


Details of the latest consumer trends and online research resources


How to seize lucrative opportunities before your competitors


Forecasting and budgeting strategies for all businesses


Advice on hiring and firing


Ways to adapt your business model to economic change



Learn to:



Put together a watertight business strategy


Plan achievable business goals


Take advantage of the latest technology and marketing trends