BP - The Business Plan Overview

Business Plan – A written document describing a business, the marketing plan, the financial plan and the operations plan. The business plan is used to gain funding and to help guide the business.

Executive Summary – A short section of the business plan that summarizes the report. Readers should be able to quickly read the executive summary and understand the overall business.

In-depth Business Plan – A formal plan that is used to fund the business, attract employees and act as a guide. This plan is generally at least 30 pages long.

Industry Analysis – A tool used to analyze and understand the competitive dynamics of an industry.

Operational Business Plan – A plan used for internal use. This plan is focused on goals, mission and vision to help keep the business on track.

PEST Analysis – A tool used to analyze the political factors, economic factors, social factors and technological factors that impact a business.

Supply Chain Management – Activities used to plan, control and execute the product’s flow from raw materials to delivery to the final customer. It is used to help the business be efficient and cost-effective.

SWOT Analysis – A tool used to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats faced by a business.