Writing a Business Plan II:  Doing Your Research
SBX 7206
Course Hours:  9

Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

    -  Determine the information that needs to be researched
 
    -  Explore the avenues available to gather desired
        information
 
    -  Secure necessary information for a business plan
 
    -  Document the information included in the business plan

Content:
 

1. The Necessity of Research
   -  Defining research
   -  Defining your business venture
    

2. Who is Your Customer

            -  Analyzing your customer profile
            -  Identifying customer demand for your product/service
            -  Geographical location of customers 
 

3. Who is Your Competition?

            -  Researching your competitors
            -  Determining your advantages/disadvantages
 

4. Financial Research

            -  Before you open the door
            -  Sales projection
                   1.  First twelve months
                   2.  Month by month
                   3.  By product
            -  Expense projection
                   1.  First twelve months
                   2.  Month by month
                   3.  By line item 

5. Research for Operations

            -  Management
            -  Employees 

6. Reaching Your Customer

            -  Market Research
            -  Marketing strategy/plan