Business Plan Data Gathering

Data gathering is the very first step in a consulting engagement and just as important it is for a consultant it is for a business plan writer.  Most business owners will have to write a business plan for either internal or external uses, and it is vital to know what information is required before starting to write a business plan.  Having the right data upfront will not only speed up the process but will prevent delays pursuant to frequent interruptions to gather additional data.

According to Deloitte, below is a list of key data to gather for business plan writing:

• Company Description
• Name
• Legal form
• Location
• Financial highlights
• Shareholders
• Management and Sales
• Organization chart
• Key management
• Board of directors
• Consultants and advisors
• Compensation and other employment agreements
• Other shareholders, rights and resolutions
• Market and Competitors
• Market statistics
• Competitor data
• Market and customer surveys
• Product and Services
• Product literature and technical specifications
• Contracts and/or purchase orders
• Competitive advantages
• Patent, license, and trademarks
• Regulatory approvals or industry standards
• Operations plan
• Research and development
• Marketing and Sales
• Marketing plan
• Marketing vehicles
• Marketing materials
• Financial Information
• Financial statements for up to past five years
• Financial forecasts and projections and assumptions
• Amount and timing of needed funding

The next steps after data gathering include determining the purpose of the plan, the type of plan (full, summary, or operational plan), and outlining the plan. If you need help in writing a business plan, Boniche Consulting Group can help you write a professional business plan or to review and update an existing one.  Go to www.bonicheconsulting.com for more information.