business plan for e-commerce business

HappyNerd · #1 (**permalink**) 02-17-09, 15:39

Has anyone created a business plan for their e-commerce business? I use a business plan for my off-line business, and am creating one for my e-commerce business. A friend of mine who runs a web design business said that business plans just hurt the business but I think it is beneficial for outlining goals, and strategies.

Chiana · #2 (**permalink**) 02-18-09, 00:57

Yes I absolutely have a business plan. I have an annual one that is updated at the beginning of each year to include new goals and altered plans, and a long term plan for 3, 4, and 5 years.

Benjamin Franklin said: "We don't plan to fail - we fail to plan"

carl owen · #3 (**permalink**) 02-25-09, 13:44

To run an E-commerce business, a proper strategy is very important. You should make sure that you take the right decisions at the right time so that you are successful in establishing your business.

Chiana · #4 (**permalink**) 03-02-09, 21:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by chithanh119

Yes. I also have one but I don't know how to run this plan.

Does your business plan include a marketing plan to help you know what you need to get done each month? Do you plan to include actions you need to take to keep you profitable each month?

Make these plans for what you need to get done - and then follow that plan.

carl owen · #5 (**permalink**) 03-03-09, 13:14

Correct. It is very necessary to plan out everything before you start as it will help you to know your limitations and your strengths.

chithanh119 · #6 (**permalink**) 03-19-09, 07:29

I haven't have any business plan yet. Who know how to start a business plan? What should I need first?

taggert · #7 (**permalink**) 03-19-09, 11:58

Is there an on line source or tutorial for creating a business plan? I have heard that there are people who actually make a living writing business plans for others.

Martin · #8 (**permalink**) 03-21-09, 05:44

Not sure of anyone who actually makes a living writing business plans for others however you can start your business by reselling BodHost's VPS or servers. You can create your own customized packages and sell them at the price you wish. That will be the good way to start with

.

carl owen · #9 (**permalink**) 03-21-09, 14:47

Yes, you can definitely be a Reseller of BODhost. There are various discount slabs available according to the number of servers you order. You can get more information about the discounts you will get on the servers by contacting BODhost.

Noobie · #10 (**permalink**) 03-24-09, 05:10

I never thought an online business would need a business plan. Will it help to keep me motivated and on track? What things should I include in it to help me?

carl owen · #11 (**permalink**) 03-24-09, 15:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by Noobie

I never thought an online business would need a business plan. Will it help to keep me motivated and on track? What things should I include in it to help me?

Definitely, an online business needs a Business plan. It won't keep you motivated and keep you on track but it will help you to grow your business i.e. your company. Basically, an Online business plan includes proper Marketing strategy, Use of assets, Maintaining profit Margins etc.

taggert · #12 (**permalink**) 03-24-09, 21:34

I found a free on line resource for creating business plans. It is Free Sample Business Plans and Business Plan Software. It has over 500 sample business plans. It also has articles about writing business plans and business plan templates. It also includes information about business financing and incorporating.

leevista · #13 (**permalink**) 03-24-09, 22:07

I also know that the small business administration offers business plan assistance. This is a link to the SBA's small business planner. Small Business Administration - Small Business Planner

It includes a step by step plan for starting your own business. It is not ecommerce specific, but I suppose it would help.

aliya · #14 (**permalink**) 03-25-09, 00:08

Thank you for this informative post.

carl owen · #15 (**permalink**) 03-25-09, 14:10

These posts are indeed helpful. However, it also depends on you and the way you use these plans for your business as someone can surely guide you with a plan but at the end you will be the one who will be practically involved in it.

leevista · #16 (**permalink**) 03-25-09, 18:34

That is a good point. A great plan executed poorly is absolutely worthless. But, having a plan is an excellent way to get yourself organized to succeed.

Joseph · #17 (**permalink**) 03-26-09, 13:33

Correct. A Plan will allow you to organize yourself and your business in such a way that you will understand your strength and your weakness which is really important when you have a business.