A detailed statement of the objectives, proposed operations, resource requirements, financial forecasts etc. of a completely new business or an established business which is being developed further. It is particularly important to draw up such a plan not only to ensure that the owners/ managers of the business themselves understand clearly what is required to make a success of the venture but also that external parties, in particular providers of capital and loan facilities, can evaluate the viability of what is being attempted.
There is no set formula for a business plan but typical elements would include:
* name, address, products and objectives of the business; what product is to be supplied
* market analysis – customer needs, competitors, size of market etc. and proposed marketing/competitive strategy
* operations analysis – production, purchasing, selling etc.
* financial analysis – profit and loss forecasts, cash flow forecasts, capital expenditure requirements
* management information/business controls – recording procedures, monitoring progress.
From Collins Dictionary of Business.