A server room business plan needs to show that you can operate in a dense enough cluster of businesses to adequately and profitable run an offsite mass server for a variety of companies. Volume and reliability are the important considerations in whether a server room business will be successful, so show that you can deliver on both fronts. While the remote storage and operation of a company's files makes it possible for an IT company to host the data of companies far away, the standard server room model has a company working in the midst of the businesses it services. If this is the case with your own server company, look closely at the immediate market – how many businesses are there, by size and by sector? Which ones do you target? These are key questions. Some others:
• How would you define the market needs?
• What trends in this industry make it seem like a good time to get into business?
• Can you describe each of the discrete services you'll offer?
• Have you already developed a client base?
• How will you acquire new clients?
Marketing methods become important here. To a large extent this is a relationship-based business, and you need to be able to leverage your existing relationships to gain new client accounts. You can also rely on conventional marketing methods – Internet ads, outdoor signage, radio play, magazine sidebars, etc. – but you should have a firm plan for what you'll make the most use of so that your advertising budget isn't wasted. The plan should include a full revenue forecast and P&L for three years (to obtain a bank loan) or five years (for investors/VCs) and you must make it clear that you can repay any loans you need on schedule. Call MasterPlans if you need support with this document – we have been writing funding-ready business plans for almost a decade and we can help you get going as well. (877) 453-2011.
