Hi,

I need some help about writing a business plan. When I started my photography business, things just kind of happened and took off. I always knew what my goals were for the business but NEVER wrote anything down. So I'm sitting in front of my computer last night, searching for new and innovative ways to expand my business, it dawned on me that the reason I don't know what my next step is, is because I don't have anything written down, so there is no structure or organization for moving forward with ideas, budget, etc.
However, I need some help because I don't know where to begin? And I'm not sure what things to include in a business plan. I know, this probably all sounds crazy. I can't believe it either, that I never wrote a business plan. So my question is, does anyone have a generic "business plan" to follow. Like some kind of guide? Thanks in advance for your help!

Ava

Contact your local SCORE group - they can help you get a biz plan going.

Definitely contact SCORE like Johnny said, they are very helpful and have tons of resources. You could search online for business plans, or go to the library or a bookstore and get a book about business plans, there you will find generic outlines for one. You can make it as detailed or basic as you want, but I think it is important to get something written down. Good luck.

Hi Ava:

SCORE is nice for general business -- but keep in mind those are retirees who staff the operation. Very smart people...but maybe not the most up to date on current trends in things like new media (i.e. the web).

Sounds to me like you need a marketing plan first -- a business plan is more for obtaining financing, but can be an effective road map to success with or without the need for capital investment.

I highly recommend (I know...DJ hates when I highly recommend stuff...LOL) Business Plan Pro from Palo Alto software. You can get the standard version for $99. Follow the link below for more info...
http://www.paloalto.com/ps/bp/

Meanwhile, do some web-surfing for assistance with developing a marketing plan. Here's something I just found that looks like a good start...
http://www.quickmba.com/marketing/plan/

Call me if you need any assistance (click my web-site below for the #) -- I mentored entrepreneurship students for several years and I've looked at a lot of business plans.

Dan

Hi guys,

Thanks so much for the information. I appreciate it, since this is no easy task.