A business plan is a road map that can greatly increase your chances of success.  Business plans are used to set goals and lay out detailed operation plans and strategies that will be used to achieve those goals. They are vital if you will be seeking loans or investors. Most business plans follow a format similar to the one below:
 
Executive summary:
A statement that briefly explains the main points of your business plan. It makes since to actually write this section last even though it is the first section of a business plan. 


Mission statement:
This is used to broadly identify your company's purpose and goals. 


Company Description:
Details the company's structure and history.

Product or Service:
This section identifies how your product or service will benefit customers.


Market Analysis: 
Describe your target market, competition, and how your company will promote its product.


Strategy:
Discusses in detail the company's operational strategy based on the market analysis.
This section needs to discuss specifically how the goals will be achieved, measured and tracked.


Management Team: 
Describe key management positions, experience and responsibilities.


Financial Plan: 
Include profit and loss statement, cash flow projection and balance sheets

Don't try to make your plan fit into the generic template. Make sure you take the time to  customize your plan to your specific business objectives.  There are many software packages designed to assist you with creating business plans. 

Business Plan Pro is an easy to use program for any small business owner or Internet entrepreneur who wants to complete their business plan quickly and professionally. The software creates great looking documents for bank managers and loan officers, while helping business owners better understand and grow their business.