2007 Strategy & Planning Articles
When the going gets rough, successful small businesses get smart. Making wise financial and operational choices can help your business bounce back from the brink of disaster.
While their cost continues to climb, health care benefits are critical for small business owners who want to stay healthy and competitive. Before you go without, consider your options, because a good plan is more affordable than you think.
From sure-fire formulas to unique offerings, both franchises and independent businesses have their strengths and weaknesses. Augment your business by knowing what works for the "other kind" of small business operation and why.
08/02/2007 — When it comes to your business's workspace, the rules of homeownership versus renting don't always apply. Learn to determine the right move for your business operation.
08/02/2007 — Learn how to identify trade shows that will offer you the most ROI. Also, learn how to decide whether it's best to participate as a vendor or a visitor at different kinds of industry trade shows.
06/21/2007 — Just as you protect your loved ones with life insurance or a will, you need to protect the business you've established and the workers who depend on you. Learn how to create a plan that will keep everything running smoothly when you or your partner can't be there.
05/10/2007 — Think you can't compete with the big guys? Think again. You probably have advantages that you haven't even considered.
05/10/2007 — It can be tempting to write off your most difficult customers as impossible to please. But how you handle temperamental patrons has a big impact on the way other customers and even employees perceive your business. Learn to support your staff in difficult situations — and still win over your toughest critics.
03/05/2007 — There are businesses out there trying to do what yours does, only better. Conduct a competitive analysis in your market so you know where your business stands and can rise above the competition.
03/05/2007 — Whether you own a startup or an established business, it's important to make the right software investments. Here are some tips on how to decide what's best for your business.
02/05/2007 — Before you start a business, devise a plan that defines the business, its goals and whom it will serve. This step will set you on the path to entrepreneurial success.
02/05/2007 — As an established business owner, you know nothing ever stays the same in the marketplace. Learn how to analyze your competitors and customers so that when the market changes, you can too.
01/07/2007 — Increasing the variety of products or services you offer could boost your customers and revenues, or it could spread your credibility thin. Determine if your business would benefit from increasing or limiting the variety of its products or services.
2006 Strategy & Planning Articles
12/18/2006 — As the seasons change, so too can your business's profitability. Fortunately, unlike the weather, you can control how your business adapts to seasonal highs and lows.
11/27/2006 — Running a business is about more than knowing your product and service. You need to know your competition. A properly conducted competitive analysis will provide the feedback necessary to give you an edge in your market.
11/06/2006 — Periodic reviews of your financial plan can help keep your personal and business expenses separate—and your business thriving.
10/16/2006 — In order to get anywhere in business, you have to know what you want and how to get it. That's why setting your goals-both long- and short-term-is the first step to getting there.
10/16/2006 — In the ever-changing world of small business, it takes more than a yearly competitive analysis to stay ahead of the game. Learn how to make competitive analysis an ongoing part of your business.
09/25/2006 — There is a lot to consider before expanding to a new location. Find out if you're ready to make the jump, or if you're better off sitting tight.
09/25/2006 — How can taking your business to the Web help expand your market? What do you need to know about taking the step to cyberspace?
09/06/2006 — A good strategic plan can help your business keep pace with competitors and boost your bottom line. Here is expert advice for developing a strategic plan quickly and effectively.
09/06/2006 — Setting up an attractive benefits plan does not mean busting the budget. Here are the best steps for offering benefits that will recruit and retain the best talent.
09/06/2006 — Before you launch a new business, analyze the market potential and labor pool in your area to ensure it's the right place to open shop.
