Description
Within this detailed elucidation pertaining to sample of a strategic plan.
Sample of a
Strategic Plan
The sooner you plan, the
quicker you will earn!?
Developed using the
Instant Strategist? method for
quick and easy strategic planning.
Disclaimer
This strategic plan was developed using the Instant Strategist? methodology for quick and easy
strategic plans. Instant Strategist? name, methodology, approach, and tools are copyrighted, registered
and trademarked. Financial data was omitted to protect the privacy of the organization.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
2
Executive Summary
The Instant Strategist system helps small businesses stay in business by providing
them with the tools and knowledge to develop a quick and easy business strategy.
According to the Small Business Administration (Office of Advocacy 2004),
there were 589,837 small-business terminations in 2003. Scientific studies in the field of
small-business success have demonstrated a strong relationship between business
planning and the prospects for business success. Moreover, studies have shown that
practicing strategic planning, which is the highest level of business planning, can have an
even greater impact on the financial performance of small businesses. Yet, despite
mounting evidence of the benefits of strategic and business planning, only one out of five
(19%) small-business owners practices business planning on a regular basis.
The need for a simple, quick and easy model for developing a strategic business
plan stems from the fact that most small businesses do not have a formal plan for their
business. Many business owners and entrepreneurs shy away from current models of
strategic and business planning models because these models are so complex,
cumbersome, and take too long to complete.
The market for the Instant Strategist system is huge. Small companies are the
backbone of the US economy. There are over 23 million small businesses in the US, and
80% of these businesses are not engaged in any type of planning,
The Instant Strategist system contains six products (software, book, audio, video,
eBook and PowerPoint), which are sold on the Internet and through Chamber of
Commerce, and Small Business Development Centers.
Gross sales for the first full year of operation (2006) is estimated at $xx million
with net operating profit (before tax) of $xx. By the fifth full year of operation (2010),
gross sales are estimated at $xx million, and net operating revenues (before tax) of $xx
million.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
3
Desire
Need
One small business fails every 60 seconds. Yet, only one out of five small-
business owners practices any type of business planning regularly despite mounting
evidence of the link between strategic planning and business success and failure.
The need for a simple and quick model for developing a strategic business plan
stems from the fact that most small businesses do not have a formal plan for their
business.
1
Many business owners shy away from current models of strategic and business
planning models because these models are so complex, cumbersome, and take too long to
complete.
Instant Strategist is a system that allows business people to develop their strategic
plan in the quickest and easiest way possible. The Instant Strategist system consists of six
unique strategic planning tools: a book, software, eBook, PowerPoint presentation, audio
seminar, and video presentation.
Instant Strategist allows business people to develop a valid strategic plan in a
matter of days, compared to traditional strategic planning models that might take months
to complete. Instant Strategist also satisfies a secondary need of business people, which is
the desire for material gain. By developing a quick and simple strategic plan, business
people increase the probability success, and, as a result, achieve greater material gain.
Value
The most valuable commodity in the new post-Internet economy is time. Time is
more valuable than any other resource because it can’t be reproduced or purchased.
Therefore, any method that allows business people to complete a task in less time is
highly valuable.
Instant Strategist’s primary value is in the expediency in which it can be used to
develop a strategic plan. For small business people, time is of the essence. And by
1
Gerber, MJ. The E-Myth Revised, Harper Collins, 2001.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
4
spending only a few days, rather than a few months, on developing a strategic plan,
valuable time is saved.
A secondary value proposition of Instant Strategist is its price point. The entire
system (book, software, eBook, PowerPoint, audio and video presentations) costs about
$200. A businessperson may purchase the entire system, or individual tools, and develop
a strategic plan in a fraction of the time that it would otherwise take to hire a consultant to
do the job, which could cost thousands of dollars.
Audience
The audience of Instant Strategist is small business owners, entrepreneurs, and
people who are starting a business. The majority of the people who are in this group are
“innovators and achievers,” as defined by the VALS (value and lifestyle segmentation of
Stanford Research Institute). The main characteristics of innovators and achievers are:
success and sophistication; people who take charge and have high self-esteem; people
who are highly motivated and goal oriented; and people who are always interested in
time-saving devices.
Drivers
Connectivity
Instant Strategist utilizes connectivity as a means to sell, communicate, and
deliver products to its customers.
Marketing usage
Instant Strategist has a dedicated site to sale and market its system. The website,
www.instantstrategist.com, features individual products, as well as four different
packages which customers can choose from (including a complete system, a professional
package, an educator package, and a starter kit). The website features pictures and
samples from the book, PowerPoint, and software, as well as a sample of the video
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
5
presentation. Customers can review the different features of each product by looking at
sample packages of the book, PowerPoint slides, and screen shots of the software.
Sales usage
The Instant Strategist website has a fully functioning shopping cart allowing
customers to order complete packages or individual products. When ordering, the
customer receives an auto-response email confirming his or her purchase. A copy of the
purchase email goes to the company.
Delivery usage
When a customer opts to purchase the products in an electronic version, they
receive an email pointing them to the download site and providing them with a username
and password to download the products that they just purchased.
Communication usage
Customers can communicate with Instant Strategist by sending an email through
the website or by using the toll free number provided on the site.
Interactivity
The interactivity aspect of the Instant Strategist website consists of viewing demo
pages of the book, software, and PowerPoint—as well as viewing a demo version of the
video presentation. In addition, customers have the option of purchasing three products in
electronic format (eBook, software, and/or PowerPoint) and downloading any or all of
these products just as soon as their credit card clears the payment system.
Speed
The Instant Strategist website allows customers the ability to download three
products (eBook, software, and PowerPoint) within minutes after their order has been
placed. If other products have been ordered, in addition to the downloadable products,
these products are mailed to the customer via FedEx or Priority Mail.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
6
Landscape
Competition
Instant Strategist does not have a direct competitor. The concept of offering a
combination of products, training, and licensing is new to the strategic planning
discipline. Instant Strategist’s competitive set consists of various companies offering
different aspects of the business—such as training, software, and guides. However, none
of these competitors offer a full suite of products and services. The competitive matrix
(see below) lists the main competitors and evaluates each of them in terms of their
products, services, features, and benefits.
Analysis
Advantage
Instant Strategist has a few areas of competitive advantage that it can leverage to
dominate the market of strategic planning resources, training, and licensing.
Speed
The primary competitive advantage of Instant Strategist is speed. No other
company has a strategic planning model that provides the user with a quick and easy
method to develop a strategic plan in a matter of days. The strategy planning models that
are offered by the competitive set are all traditional, complex, and lengthy.
Competitive Matrix
Competitive Set Interactivity Connectivity Speed Simplicity Range of Price Licensing
products point program
Center for Simplified Strategic Planning (A) no no no no no high no
CheckMate software (B) no yes no no no medium no
Dialog software (C) yes yes yes no no medium no
Mayrna Associates (D) no no no no yes low no
Business Basics (E) no no no no yes medium no
Instant Strategist yes yes yea yes yes low yes
Notes:
(A) focus is primarily on training at seminars. The only product offered is a book. Very complex and lengthy model.
(B) Offers a strategic planning software for $500. Software is dont available for download.
(C) Offers a strategic planning software for $400. No other tools are available, no training or licensing services for consultants.
(D) offers a range of books and tapes on strategic planning. No training and or licensing program for consultants.
(E) Offers a strategic planning book, and audio DC's as a package for $500. No training and licensing services.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
7
Simplicity
Each model offered by the competitive set is based on the old fashioned models of
strategic planning. These old models are complex and not suitable for the new economy.
An average businessperson should understand the Instant Strategist process within an
hour or less after he or she has read the book or watched the video.
Interactivity
With the exception of one company (Dialog Software) only Instant Strategist
offers customers the ability to download three products right away (software, book, and
PowerPoint). Thus, customers can start working on their strategic plan within minutes of
ordering the system online.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
8
Models
Business Model
The business model consists of two main practices:
1) Interactive services
2) Professional services
Interactive Services
Interactive services include
the marketing and sales of products
though the Instant Strategist website.
Customers may log on to the
website, review the different
products, and order them online. In
the case of the software, PowerPoint,
and eBook, customers may
download each of these products just
as soon as their payment has been
cleared.
Professional Services
Professional services
include speaking, training, and
licensing programs. These
programs will be promoted and
featured on the website, but will
be sold and followed-up through
phone conversations, literature,
and personal appointments
Business Model
Interactive Services
Customer
logs into site
Instant
Strategist
website
Book
eBook
Software
PowerPoint
Audio Seminar
Video Presentation
Shipment
by mail
Download
Business Model
Professional Services
Instant
Strategist
Licensing
program
Corporate
Training
Speaker
Services
Consulting
Training
Product sale
Training
Coaching
Product sale
Speaking
Seminars
Product sale
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
9
Revenue Model
The revenue model of Instant
Strategist consists of four major
revenue streams:
1) Product sales—includes the sale
of products on the website or
though any other distribution
channel such as Amazon.com or
Kinko’s.
2) Licensing program—includes the
sign up fee as well as the annual
licensing fees paid by the licensees.
3) Speaking services—includes the revenues generated from public speaking
4) Corporate Training—includes revenues generated from training activities.
Operating Model
Function/Subject Responsibilities/Functions
Location Corporate office and Business Planning Center for training (450 sq. ft.) in San
Rafael, California.
Top Management Dan Geller, President, Julie Brown, VP Marketing, Mike Level, Director of Sales,
Jessica May, VP Technology.
Finance Finance, accounting and taxation is handled by Irving Bernstein, CPA.
Technology Website enhancement and software modifications are subcontracted to the DJ
Wizard company in San Rafael, California. Hosting of the Instant Strategist
website is done by Interland and broadband Internet connection provided by Vista
Broadband services.
Sales Sales is headed by Mike Level. Two additional sales people are currently under
consideration.
Equipment The office consists of a PC (HP), printer, fax, phone, and office furniture. The
Business Planning Center has four Dell computers, a digital projector, and a HP
laptop.
Logistics Hard copies of the products are stored in the office and are shipped to customers
via regular mail or FedEx, based on the customer’s request.
Revenue Model
Instant
Strategist
Product
sale
Licensing
Program
Speaking
Services
Training
Services
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
10
Markets
Size
The primary market for Instant Strategist products and services is the “small
business” market as defined by the Small Business Administration. Small businesses in
the US employ about half of the private sector. In 2004, there were 23 million small
businesses in the US. Out of this figure, about 18.4 million are self-proprietorships
(single doctor or lawyer). The overall market of Instant Strategist is the 23 million small
businesses.
Selection
The overall market contains two major segments:
1) Employment firms—small companies that have employees working for them. In
2002, there were about 5.5 million such businesses.
2) Self-employment—individuals that are in business for themselves and are not likely to
have other employees working for them. In 2004 there were about 9.5 such individuals.
Both of these markets are considered primary market segments for the Instant Strategist
products and services.
Targeting
The selected market target for the interactive services—selling products online—
are small businesses that have access to the Internet. It is not clear how many small
businesses do have access to the Internet, but we can assume that this group behaves the
same way as the general population. Therefore, we can apply the figure of 50 percent to
the number of small businesses. Thus, we can assume that there are about 11 million
small businesses with access to the Internet. The selected market for the professional
services include companies that might require training and or consulting services as well
as independent business consultants who might be interested in licensing the Instant
Strategist system to consult and train their customers.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
11
Marketing
Positioning
The Instant Strategist website has been optimized and positioned to attract its
target market. The website has been optimized and contains all three meta tags (title,
description, and keywords) as well as image title. The website have been listed in major
search engines and directories by using the “submit it” service of Microsoft.
Posting
Search
Engine/Directory
Type of
Posting
Description Key Words/Phrases
Google Bids on
keywords
Quick and easy strategic
planning.
Strategic planning, strategic plans, business
strategy.
Yahoo/Overture Bids on
keywords
Quick and easy strategic
planning.
Strategic planning, strategic plans, business
strategy.
Programs
Market Target Media Promotions
Small business market segment Pay per click Bids on key words on Google and Yahoo/Overture.
Small business market segment Print advertising Classified ad in Inc. Magazine and Small Business
Success ( SBA publication)
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
12
Activities
Priorities
Priority/Stages/Cost Table
Category Stage/Priority Activity Estimated Cost
Technical B Ongoing maintenance and improvement of the
website.
xxx/year.
Marketing A Place classified ads in business publications. If
successful, change to display ads.
xxx/year
Financial A Quarterly tax estimates and payment of
commissions.
xxx/year
Marketing B Continue advertising on Google and
Yahoo/Overture.
xxx/year
Financials
5 Year Sales Forecast
(all numbers in $000)
Revenue Category 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Online product sales (a) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Product wholesale (b) 0 0 0 0 0
Licensing program (c) 0 0 0 0 0
Speaking services (d) 0 0 0 0 0
Training services (e) 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
Total Sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
13
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
5 Year Sales Forecast
(all numbers in $000)
Annual sales growth is projected at xx percent per year.
a) Assumes an average sale of xx, at an estimated volume of xx sales per day.
b) Assumes xx products a day through retail and promotional (Chamber of Commerce etc.) sales channels
at an average wholesale prices of xx per product.
c) Assumes xx licensing agreements per year (first year), which includes a xx sign-up fee and a xx yearly
licensing fee.
d) Assumes one public speaking event per months at an average of xx per event.
e) Assumes one cooperate training session per month at an average of xx per session.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
14
a) Compensation for
b) Compensation for sales person who will call on consultants to sell licensing agreements.
c) Advertising, includes Internet and print advertising.
d) Hosting and maintenance of all the websites, including payment systems and monthly fees.
e) Preparation of marketing and product literature.
Estimated Start-Up Capital
Monthly Cash Needed % of
Expenses to Start Total
MONTHLY COSTS
Executive payroll (a) $0 $0 0.0%
Staff payroll (b) 0 0 0.0%
Advertising (c) 0 0 0.0%
Website hosting and maintenance (d) 0 0 0.0%
Marketing communication (e) 0 0 0.0%
Travel 0 0 0.0%
Legal and accounting 0 0 0.0%
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
Subtotal $0 #N/A
ONE-TIME COSTS
Two new computers $0 #N/A
Legal and administration 0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
#N/A
Subtotal $0 #N/A
TOTAL ESTIMATED START-UP CAPITAL $0
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
15
Income Statement
For the Years 2006 through 2010
(all numbers in $000)
REVENUE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Gross sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Less sales returns and allowances 0 0 0 0 0
Net Sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
COST OF SALES
Total Cost of Goods Sold $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Gross Profit (Loss) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
OPERATING EXPENSES
Selling
Salaries and wages $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Commissions 0 0 0 0 0
Advertising 0 0 0 0 0
Depreciation 0 0 0 0 0
Travel 0 0 0 0 0
Total Selling Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
General/Administrative
Salaries and wages $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Employee benefits 0 0 0 0 0
Payroll taxes 0 0 0 0 0
Insurance 0 0 0 0 0
Rent 0 0 0 0 0
Utilities 0 0 0 0 0
Depreciation & amortization 0 0 0 0 0
Office supplies 0 0 0 0 0
Travel & entertainment 0 0 0 0 0
Postage 0 0 0 0 0
Equipment maintenance & rental 3 4 5 6 7
Interest 0 0 0 0 0
Furniture & equipment 0 0 0 0 0
Total General/Administrative Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total Operating Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Income Before Taxes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Taxes on income 0 0 0 0 0
Net Income After Taxes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Extraordinary gain or loss
Income tax on extraordinary gain
doc_512784349.pdf
Within this detailed elucidation pertaining to sample of a strategic plan.
Sample of a
Strategic Plan
The sooner you plan, the
quicker you will earn!?
Developed using the
Instant Strategist? method for
quick and easy strategic planning.
Disclaimer
This strategic plan was developed using the Instant Strategist? methodology for quick and easy
strategic plans. Instant Strategist? name, methodology, approach, and tools are copyrighted, registered
and trademarked. Financial data was omitted to protect the privacy of the organization.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
2
Executive Summary
The Instant Strategist system helps small businesses stay in business by providing
them with the tools and knowledge to develop a quick and easy business strategy.
According to the Small Business Administration (Office of Advocacy 2004),
there were 589,837 small-business terminations in 2003. Scientific studies in the field of
small-business success have demonstrated a strong relationship between business
planning and the prospects for business success. Moreover, studies have shown that
practicing strategic planning, which is the highest level of business planning, can have an
even greater impact on the financial performance of small businesses. Yet, despite
mounting evidence of the benefits of strategic and business planning, only one out of five
(19%) small-business owners practices business planning on a regular basis.
The need for a simple, quick and easy model for developing a strategic business
plan stems from the fact that most small businesses do not have a formal plan for their
business. Many business owners and entrepreneurs shy away from current models of
strategic and business planning models because these models are so complex,
cumbersome, and take too long to complete.
The market for the Instant Strategist system is huge. Small companies are the
backbone of the US economy. There are over 23 million small businesses in the US, and
80% of these businesses are not engaged in any type of planning,
The Instant Strategist system contains six products (software, book, audio, video,
eBook and PowerPoint), which are sold on the Internet and through Chamber of
Commerce, and Small Business Development Centers.
Gross sales for the first full year of operation (2006) is estimated at $xx million
with net operating profit (before tax) of $xx. By the fifth full year of operation (2010),
gross sales are estimated at $xx million, and net operating revenues (before tax) of $xx
million.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
3
Desire
Need
One small business fails every 60 seconds. Yet, only one out of five small-
business owners practices any type of business planning regularly despite mounting
evidence of the link between strategic planning and business success and failure.
The need for a simple and quick model for developing a strategic business plan
stems from the fact that most small businesses do not have a formal plan for their
business.
1
Many business owners shy away from current models of strategic and business
planning models because these models are so complex, cumbersome, and take too long to
complete.
Instant Strategist is a system that allows business people to develop their strategic
plan in the quickest and easiest way possible. The Instant Strategist system consists of six
unique strategic planning tools: a book, software, eBook, PowerPoint presentation, audio
seminar, and video presentation.
Instant Strategist allows business people to develop a valid strategic plan in a
matter of days, compared to traditional strategic planning models that might take months
to complete. Instant Strategist also satisfies a secondary need of business people, which is
the desire for material gain. By developing a quick and simple strategic plan, business
people increase the probability success, and, as a result, achieve greater material gain.
Value
The most valuable commodity in the new post-Internet economy is time. Time is
more valuable than any other resource because it can’t be reproduced or purchased.
Therefore, any method that allows business people to complete a task in less time is
highly valuable.
Instant Strategist’s primary value is in the expediency in which it can be used to
develop a strategic plan. For small business people, time is of the essence. And by
1
Gerber, MJ. The E-Myth Revised, Harper Collins, 2001.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
4
spending only a few days, rather than a few months, on developing a strategic plan,
valuable time is saved.
A secondary value proposition of Instant Strategist is its price point. The entire
system (book, software, eBook, PowerPoint, audio and video presentations) costs about
$200. A businessperson may purchase the entire system, or individual tools, and develop
a strategic plan in a fraction of the time that it would otherwise take to hire a consultant to
do the job, which could cost thousands of dollars.
Audience
The audience of Instant Strategist is small business owners, entrepreneurs, and
people who are starting a business. The majority of the people who are in this group are
“innovators and achievers,” as defined by the VALS (value and lifestyle segmentation of
Stanford Research Institute). The main characteristics of innovators and achievers are:
success and sophistication; people who take charge and have high self-esteem; people
who are highly motivated and goal oriented; and people who are always interested in
time-saving devices.
Drivers
Connectivity
Instant Strategist utilizes connectivity as a means to sell, communicate, and
deliver products to its customers.
Marketing usage
Instant Strategist has a dedicated site to sale and market its system. The website,
www.instantstrategist.com, features individual products, as well as four different
packages which customers can choose from (including a complete system, a professional
package, an educator package, and a starter kit). The website features pictures and
samples from the book, PowerPoint, and software, as well as a sample of the video
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
5
presentation. Customers can review the different features of each product by looking at
sample packages of the book, PowerPoint slides, and screen shots of the software.
Sales usage
The Instant Strategist website has a fully functioning shopping cart allowing
customers to order complete packages or individual products. When ordering, the
customer receives an auto-response email confirming his or her purchase. A copy of the
purchase email goes to the company.
Delivery usage
When a customer opts to purchase the products in an electronic version, they
receive an email pointing them to the download site and providing them with a username
and password to download the products that they just purchased.
Communication usage
Customers can communicate with Instant Strategist by sending an email through
the website or by using the toll free number provided on the site.
Interactivity
The interactivity aspect of the Instant Strategist website consists of viewing demo
pages of the book, software, and PowerPoint—as well as viewing a demo version of the
video presentation. In addition, customers have the option of purchasing three products in
electronic format (eBook, software, and/or PowerPoint) and downloading any or all of
these products just as soon as their credit card clears the payment system.
Speed
The Instant Strategist website allows customers the ability to download three
products (eBook, software, and PowerPoint) within minutes after their order has been
placed. If other products have been ordered, in addition to the downloadable products,
these products are mailed to the customer via FedEx or Priority Mail.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
6
Landscape
Competition
Instant Strategist does not have a direct competitor. The concept of offering a
combination of products, training, and licensing is new to the strategic planning
discipline. Instant Strategist’s competitive set consists of various companies offering
different aspects of the business—such as training, software, and guides. However, none
of these competitors offer a full suite of products and services. The competitive matrix
(see below) lists the main competitors and evaluates each of them in terms of their
products, services, features, and benefits.
Analysis
Advantage
Instant Strategist has a few areas of competitive advantage that it can leverage to
dominate the market of strategic planning resources, training, and licensing.
Speed
The primary competitive advantage of Instant Strategist is speed. No other
company has a strategic planning model that provides the user with a quick and easy
method to develop a strategic plan in a matter of days. The strategy planning models that
are offered by the competitive set are all traditional, complex, and lengthy.
Competitive Matrix
Competitive Set Interactivity Connectivity Speed Simplicity Range of Price Licensing
products point program
Center for Simplified Strategic Planning (A) no no no no no high no
CheckMate software (B) no yes no no no medium no
Dialog software (C) yes yes yes no no medium no
Mayrna Associates (D) no no no no yes low no
Business Basics (E) no no no no yes medium no
Instant Strategist yes yes yea yes yes low yes
Notes:
(A) focus is primarily on training at seminars. The only product offered is a book. Very complex and lengthy model.
(B) Offers a strategic planning software for $500. Software is dont available for download.
(C) Offers a strategic planning software for $400. No other tools are available, no training or licensing services for consultants.
(D) offers a range of books and tapes on strategic planning. No training and or licensing program for consultants.
(E) Offers a strategic planning book, and audio DC's as a package for $500. No training and licensing services.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
7
Simplicity
Each model offered by the competitive set is based on the old fashioned models of
strategic planning. These old models are complex and not suitable for the new economy.
An average businessperson should understand the Instant Strategist process within an
hour or less after he or she has read the book or watched the video.
Interactivity
With the exception of one company (Dialog Software) only Instant Strategist
offers customers the ability to download three products right away (software, book, and
PowerPoint). Thus, customers can start working on their strategic plan within minutes of
ordering the system online.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
8
Models
Business Model
The business model consists of two main practices:
1) Interactive services
2) Professional services
Interactive Services
Interactive services include
the marketing and sales of products
though the Instant Strategist website.
Customers may log on to the
website, review the different
products, and order them online. In
the case of the software, PowerPoint,
and eBook, customers may
download each of these products just
as soon as their payment has been
cleared.
Professional Services
Professional services
include speaking, training, and
licensing programs. These
programs will be promoted and
featured on the website, but will
be sold and followed-up through
phone conversations, literature,
and personal appointments
Business Model
Interactive Services
Customer
logs into site
Instant
Strategist
website
Book
eBook
Software
PowerPoint
Audio Seminar
Video Presentation
Shipment
by mail
Download
Business Model
Professional Services
Instant
Strategist
Licensing
program
Corporate
Training
Speaker
Services
Consulting
Training
Product sale
Training
Coaching
Product sale
Speaking
Seminars
Product sale
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
9
Revenue Model
The revenue model of Instant
Strategist consists of four major
revenue streams:
1) Product sales—includes the sale
of products on the website or
though any other distribution
channel such as Amazon.com or
Kinko’s.
2) Licensing program—includes the
sign up fee as well as the annual
licensing fees paid by the licensees.
3) Speaking services—includes the revenues generated from public speaking
4) Corporate Training—includes revenues generated from training activities.
Operating Model
Function/Subject Responsibilities/Functions
Location Corporate office and Business Planning Center for training (450 sq. ft.) in San
Rafael, California.
Top Management Dan Geller, President, Julie Brown, VP Marketing, Mike Level, Director of Sales,
Jessica May, VP Technology.
Finance Finance, accounting and taxation is handled by Irving Bernstein, CPA.
Technology Website enhancement and software modifications are subcontracted to the DJ
Wizard company in San Rafael, California. Hosting of the Instant Strategist
website is done by Interland and broadband Internet connection provided by Vista
Broadband services.
Sales Sales is headed by Mike Level. Two additional sales people are currently under
consideration.
Equipment The office consists of a PC (HP), printer, fax, phone, and office furniture. The
Business Planning Center has four Dell computers, a digital projector, and a HP
laptop.
Logistics Hard copies of the products are stored in the office and are shipped to customers
via regular mail or FedEx, based on the customer’s request.
Revenue Model
Instant
Strategist
Product
sale
Licensing
Program
Speaking
Services
Training
Services
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
10
Markets
Size
The primary market for Instant Strategist products and services is the “small
business” market as defined by the Small Business Administration. Small businesses in
the US employ about half of the private sector. In 2004, there were 23 million small
businesses in the US. Out of this figure, about 18.4 million are self-proprietorships
(single doctor or lawyer). The overall market of Instant Strategist is the 23 million small
businesses.
Selection
The overall market contains two major segments:
1) Employment firms—small companies that have employees working for them. In
2002, there were about 5.5 million such businesses.
2) Self-employment—individuals that are in business for themselves and are not likely to
have other employees working for them. In 2004 there were about 9.5 such individuals.
Both of these markets are considered primary market segments for the Instant Strategist
products and services.
Targeting
The selected market target for the interactive services—selling products online—
are small businesses that have access to the Internet. It is not clear how many small
businesses do have access to the Internet, but we can assume that this group behaves the
same way as the general population. Therefore, we can apply the figure of 50 percent to
the number of small businesses. Thus, we can assume that there are about 11 million
small businesses with access to the Internet. The selected market for the professional
services include companies that might require training and or consulting services as well
as independent business consultants who might be interested in licensing the Instant
Strategist system to consult and train their customers.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
11
Marketing
Positioning
The Instant Strategist website has been optimized and positioned to attract its
target market. The website has been optimized and contains all three meta tags (title,
description, and keywords) as well as image title. The website have been listed in major
search engines and directories by using the “submit it” service of Microsoft.
Posting
Search
Engine/Directory
Type of
Posting
Description Key Words/Phrases
Google Bids on
keywords
Quick and easy strategic
planning.
Strategic planning, strategic plans, business
strategy.
Yahoo/Overture Bids on
keywords
Quick and easy strategic
planning.
Strategic planning, strategic plans, business
strategy.
Programs
Market Target Media Promotions
Small business market segment Pay per click Bids on key words on Google and Yahoo/Overture.
Small business market segment Print advertising Classified ad in Inc. Magazine and Small Business
Success ( SBA publication)
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
12
Activities
Priorities
Priority/Stages/Cost Table
Category Stage/Priority Activity Estimated Cost
Technical B Ongoing maintenance and improvement of the
website.
xxx/year.
Marketing A Place classified ads in business publications. If
successful, change to display ads.
xxx/year
Financial A Quarterly tax estimates and payment of
commissions.
xxx/year
Marketing B Continue advertising on Google and
Yahoo/Overture.
xxx/year
Financials
5 Year Sales Forecast
(all numbers in $000)
Revenue Category 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Online product sales (a) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Product wholesale (b) 0 0 0 0 0
Licensing program (c) 0 0 0 0 0
Speaking services (d) 0 0 0 0 0
Training services (e) 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0
Total Sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
13
$0
$500
$1,000
$1,500
$2,000
$2,500
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
5 Year Sales Forecast
(all numbers in $000)
Annual sales growth is projected at xx percent per year.
a) Assumes an average sale of xx, at an estimated volume of xx sales per day.
b) Assumes xx products a day through retail and promotional (Chamber of Commerce etc.) sales channels
at an average wholesale prices of xx per product.
c) Assumes xx licensing agreements per year (first year), which includes a xx sign-up fee and a xx yearly
licensing fee.
d) Assumes one public speaking event per months at an average of xx per event.
e) Assumes one cooperate training session per month at an average of xx per session.
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
14
a) Compensation for
b) Compensation for sales person who will call on consultants to sell licensing agreements.
c) Advertising, includes Internet and print advertising.
d) Hosting and maintenance of all the websites, including payment systems and monthly fees.
e) Preparation of marketing and product literature.
Estimated Start-Up Capital
Monthly Cash Needed % of
Expenses to Start Total
MONTHLY COSTS
Executive payroll (a) $0 $0 0.0%
Staff payroll (b) 0 0 0.0%
Advertising (c) 0 0 0.0%
Website hosting and maintenance (d) 0 0 0.0%
Marketing communication (e) 0 0 0.0%
Travel 0 0 0.0%
Legal and accounting 0 0 0.0%
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
0 0 #N/A
Subtotal $0 #N/A
ONE-TIME COSTS
Two new computers $0 #N/A
Legal and administration 0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
0 #N/A
#N/A
Subtotal $0 #N/A
TOTAL ESTIMATED START-UP CAPITAL $0
Instant Strategist Sample Strategic plan
(c) Instant Strategist, 7 Mt. Lassen Dr., Suite B-126, San Rafael, CA 94903
P. 415-492-0506, F. 415-492-0504, Email: [email protected], Web: www.instantstrategist.com
15
Income Statement
For the Years 2006 through 2010
(all numbers in $000)
REVENUE 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Gross sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Less sales returns and allowances 0 0 0 0 0
Net Sales $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
COST OF SALES
Total Cost of Goods Sold $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Gross Profit (Loss) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
OPERATING EXPENSES
Selling
Salaries and wages $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Commissions 0 0 0 0 0
Advertising 0 0 0 0 0
Depreciation 0 0 0 0 0
Travel 0 0 0 0 0
Total Selling Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
General/Administrative
Salaries and wages $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Employee benefits 0 0 0 0 0
Payroll taxes 0 0 0 0 0
Insurance 0 0 0 0 0
Rent 0 0 0 0 0
Utilities 0 0 0 0 0
Depreciation & amortization 0 0 0 0 0
Office supplies 0 0 0 0 0
Travel & entertainment 0 0 0 0 0
Postage 0 0 0 0 0
Equipment maintenance & rental 3 4 5 6 7
Interest 0 0 0 0 0
Furniture & equipment 0 0 0 0 0
Total General/Administrative Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total Operating Expenses $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Net Income Before Taxes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Taxes on income 0 0 0 0 0
Net Income After Taxes $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Extraordinary gain or loss
Income tax on extraordinary gain
doc_512784349.pdf