jijo.thomas
Jijo Thomas
They say writing a business plan is the first step in starting a business. But how important is it really? And why should one do it?
I asked a Silicon Valley VC who heads his company’s India investment team to weigh in. Here’s what he said:
“Plans are good, but ideas come to us in many forms, sometimes it’s just a simple conversation with a potential entrepreneur that takes off. In that case, the plan is just a formal piece of paper.”
Point being – Don’t view the business plan simply as a marketing tool to woo potential investors. Rather, irrespective of whether you are seeking funding or not, take the time to put together a business plan. Why? Because it will serve as a road map for YOU as you get the pieces of your business together. (as they say, putting your thoughts down on paper crystallizes them.)
A well-drafted business plan that factors in strategy, description of products or services, market analysis, management team, funding, break-even analysis, and opportunities and threats, will give you a realistic understanding of what to expect. As a side effect, it will also impress potential investors who will see the organized thought process behind the idea. Of course, expect to make slight changes to the plan as you go along.
I asked a Silicon Valley VC who heads his company’s India investment team to weigh in. Here’s what he said:
“Plans are good, but ideas come to us in many forms, sometimes it’s just a simple conversation with a potential entrepreneur that takes off. In that case, the plan is just a formal piece of paper.”
Point being – Don’t view the business plan simply as a marketing tool to woo potential investors. Rather, irrespective of whether you are seeking funding or not, take the time to put together a business plan. Why? Because it will serve as a road map for YOU as you get the pieces of your business together. (as they say, putting your thoughts down on paper crystallizes them.)
A well-drafted business plan that factors in strategy, description of products or services, market analysis, management team, funding, break-even analysis, and opportunities and threats, will give you a realistic understanding of what to expect. As a side effect, it will also impress potential investors who will see the organized thought process behind the idea. Of course, expect to make slight changes to the plan as you go along.
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