Business Plan (Leaving Cert Business): Revision Notes

Business Plan

Reasons for a Business Plan:

• Raises Finance: A business plan helps convince investors and lenders that the business is viable and likely to generate profits, increasing the chances of securing funding.
• Sets Out Targets: It provides clear direction and focus by outlining specific goals and the steps needed to achieve them, guiding the business towards success.
• Control: The plan allows entrepreneurs to set objectives and measure progress, making it easier to identify and address any deviations from the expected performance.
• Solutions: By identifying potential issues and challenges in advance, a business plan helps devise solutions to problems like cash flow shortages before they occur, ensuring smoother operations.

Headings in a Business Plan

• Description of Business: This section outlines the business proposition, introduces the founders, and details the products or services offered. It also highlights long-term objectives, target market, market trends, and competitive advantages.
• Marketing Plan: This section describes strategies to attract customers using the 4 Ps: product, price, promotion, and place. It explains how the business will differentiate itself and establish a market presence.
• Production Plan: This section details the manufacturing process, equipment needed, and quality assurance measures. It also covers production logistics to ensure efficient demand fulfilment.
• Finance Plan: This section outlines the business's financial needs and funding sources, including loans and investor contributions. It provides financial projections and cash flow forecasts for the next few years.