Looking for an Office 2007 business plan? Unfortunately there's no true business planning software wrapped into the Microsoft Office suite for 2007, but the program can link you to templates and other resources for plan development. The PowerPoint application and certain features at Office.com will give you some framework to use for writing a plan, but this is nothing as robust as a full software like Palo Alto's Business Plan Pro would equip you with. Of course, no software product is quite as nimble or personal as human help, either, so keep your specific needs in mind when choosing how to proceed with your business plan. No matter what path you take, remember that the plan needs to:
• Make a clear case for the market opportunity you're pursuing
• Have a concise executive summary
• Show a use of funds that is reasonable and well thought-out
• Lay bare the marketing strategy you believe the business can use
• Show the personnel requirements in a 3-5 year plan
The business plan will function at its best with a complete pro forma model, which means building a set of financials that shows your use of funds (start-up summary), personnel plan, revenue forecast, break-even analysis, cash flow and profit and loss, and the balance sheet for the life of the model. While a savvy Excel user can build an integrated spreadsheet that will tie all of these tables together, it's not easy work, and you should be prepared to triple-check everything for common mistakes. Want to look to the professionals instead? Whether you need current market research or a reliable financial presentation, MasterPlans can get the job done. We've helped more than 9,000 clients since 2002 and can deliver for you as well. Call toll-free at (877) 453-2011.
