Business Plan Software- Why and Why not?
Why not use software?
We depend on software for so many things, to take the hassle out of things, to ‘streamline’ and ‘support’. And it delivers. So too does business plan software- I mean it can automate so many different things:
- formatting
- financial tables
- graphic representations
- simple drag and drop utilities,
- and so much more.
One of the things that so often is becoming overlooked in an increasingly technology dependant world, is personal ownership. In this sense, ownership of the structure, ideas, etc.. While software indeed can help you build a better looking plan- it cannot make a good business plan. Just as a word processing software cannot make a good poem or story regardless of the bells and whistles it offers. So many times, people jump on board, buy the software, work with it for a bit , become frustrated and leave it alone, as well as their intent to continue to build a business. Indeed business plan software manufacturers, market to this insight.
As such it can be expensive mis-adventure in terms of cost, and personal frustration.
A good business plan is one that basically represents your aspirations, in a rational, measured, benchmarked format. It is a forecast of your individual dream, as an enterprise you are looking to bring to life. The commitment you will put into it is the key ingredient. It will show up to whoever is reading it- a partner, a financier, a bank manager, supplier, etc.
While not suggesting that a guide is not helpful to help you think through your ideas, and present a plan in an organized way. Simply saying that the simpler an initial format is, the better it is for you to create a good draft of a plan, staying more truthful to your vision, than the encumbrances of a software program. Perhaps a software program is a good step for larger more involved business plans such for manufacturing initiatives, etc. But ALWAYS use simple templates, workbooks or even blank pieces of paper to draft your thoughts and develop a plan from start to finish from there- before jumping headlong in automating it.
Tags: business plan software, business plan software how to, Business plan template why, how to write a business plan
Business, Business Plans, Quick Business Plan | admin | 14 January 2010 |
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Business Plan Software- Why and Why not? « Bplan Resouces Blog | Drakz Business Online Service — January 14, 2010 @ 15:49
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By nattimmarie, May 26, 2010 @ 20:47
Just want to say what a great blog you got here!
I’ve been around for quite a lot of time, but finally decided to show my appreciation of your work!
Thumbs up, and keep it going!
Cheers
Christian,