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How to Do It
It might be slow going at first. But you should find that the writing process will help you develop, organize, and even sharpen your thoughts. As you write the plan, you will unearth a surprising number of old thoughts, resurrect forgotten details, and trigger a mass production of new ideas. As your ideas proliferate, your overall plan will also take a more definite form.
Like a tree, the best business plan grows and improves over time. But to do that, it needs periodic attention and work. Begin with a single page or dedicated file in your computer. Write out your overall objectives in as much detail as you can. Enumerate as many thoughts as you can. Later, you may go back and develop the good thoughts and delete the others.
There is no standard size for a business plan; each varies according to the type of business concerned and the purpose for writing it. Without omitting any important details, try to make the plan as short and compact as possible. Also, don’t crowd any page too much. Lots of “white space” makes material easier and more enjoyable to read.
Above all else, be sure to focus the plan most sharply on whatever primary goal you have in mind. For example, if you are seeking a government grant under a special program, emphasize how you will measure up to the program’s standards. Still, be sure to cover all the other bases.
Helpful Writing Tips
Even the best writers struggle with writer’s block. Usually, the problem stems from anxiety. Worry too much, or think you can’t succeed, and the mind becomes confused, and the will fades. Relax, approach the project like a fun challenge, and remember that you don’t have to start out perfectly. Jot down some basic thoughts, return to it from time to time, and let your imagination works its magic. Also keep in mind that your readers will not judge you by your flair for writing but by the substance of your plan.
The keys to good writing are planning and organization. First, know your facts and especially your readers. What is their level of understanding, and what are their interests? Be sure you speak to their interests in language they will understand.
Begin with an outline, organizing your ideas into a logical order. Then follow the pattern of that outline as you write.
Strive to avoid terms your readers are not likely to understand or appreciate. Also use plain language and simple words. If necessary, define terms that might confuse your readers.
The best writing is the fruit of conscientious editing. Review your material once, and you’ll find errors and better ways to express ideas. Review again and again, and the winnowing process will continue until you have polished your work to your critical satisfaction.
In a sense, your plan is a sales tool, insofar as it is designed to impress your readers. Nevertheless, it shouldn’t sound like a sales letter. Since its main purpose is to inform, you should stick to bare, provable facts and avoid the hard-sell language that showers the reader with enticing superlatives and fantastic claims. Neither should it sound like a dry technical manual. Let your writing be slightly spirited but also dignified.
One way to do that is by adding brief examples and anecdotes. “Last year’s sales were boosted through a new partnership with Michelangelo Realtors. They agreed to...”
Graphs, charts and other concrete images also add credibility to claims and make details easier for readers to understand.
Software
Serious business plan writers should consider some of the latest business plan software, which can be purchased for a reasonable price at most places where software is sold. These programs are designed to easily lead the writer through the process, step by step. They are designed to touch on all typical elements of business plans so you won’t be likely to forget any important topics.
The best place to find information on available programs is online. Visit any of the common software exhibit sites, such as Morebusiness.com, http://www.bplans.com/samples/mbus.cfm. Or key in “Business Plan software,” and see how many options pop up. Be aware, however, that not all of these programs are alike and that some offer more than others. Unless you can find a product on sale, the minimum price will be about $100. But if your business plan is important enough, don’t skimp on price. Remember, this is a long-term investment!
One of the less expensive products is Business Plan Pro, currently listed for $99.95 for the Standard version, and $199.00 for the Premier. Manufactured by Palo Alto Software (www.paloalto.com), the product is widely available in stores, and it can also be viewed in detail at its web site.
If you have trouble finding or using such software, you might find help from small business assistance centers at major universities, where graduate students provide assistance to small entrepreneurs in a wide variety of areas. Most of these students and their faculty are well versed in computer technology as well as in many other important areas. They are also commonly noted for providing assistance in writing proposals, plans, and other related areas.
Though one of the easiest ways to begin, don’t expect any software to do the job that only you can do for yourself! Software can provide information and guidance, but only you can make your business plan distinct from every other business plan out there! HBM
Christopher J. Bachler is a 20-year veteran business writer and editor, based in Drexel Hill, PA.
Previously published in the October 2006 issue of HOME BUSINESS® Magazine, an international publication for the growing and dynamic home-based market. Available on newsstands, in bookstores and chain stores, and via subscriptions ($15.00 for 1 year, six issues). Visit www.homebusinessmag.com
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