Classes for Serious Business
Links to the Class Assignments and Information
Homework -- Business Facts
Each week there will be suggested assignments looking into the facts around your business. It's important to do your research diligently to arrive at an appropriate set of Objectives, Strategies and Action Plans
How you keep track of the information you find is your choice. It depends on how you work best. Some people like to approach the information in a logical top down or bottom up approach. Others like to use the "index card" approach and keep notes that can be sorted and compiled later. Either way is fine.
There needs to be a lot of research for this project. You need to pull together and compile a lot of information that you will use to make decisions on which way your firm will go.
Your homework is important. Remember your business plan will be as good as the effort you put into it.
Homework -- Essentials of Accounting
How a business accounts for its results is the Language of Business.
The programmed learning text Essentials of Accounting is a classic for entrepreneurs. It has been used as a foundation for owners, managers and other people that need to know what financial statements say for more than 30 years.
When I first went through the course, I had already had a minor in accounting and 10 years of working with auditors in putting together our annual statements. It was after going through this book, I first really understood how a business works through its financial statements.
We will go through each of the chapters as we go through this program and work to relate the principles to your specific business.
Classes
Class Number 1
In this first class, you will begin to understand the process of business planning, why it's necessary and how it is related to financial performance. For detailed assignments and references.
Class Number 2
In this second class, you will begin to understand the process marketing. As part of understanding how to market your products and services, you need to do Market Research. This lesson will lead you into the process.
Between Class Number 2 and 3
Now is the time to do initial Market Research. Following this information will get you into specifics about your company.
Class Number 3
We will review all the information gathered in the research last week, then begin discussing what Objectives, Strategies and Action Plans are.
Class Number 4
Finally we get to understanding Marketing Strategies and the Marketing mix.
Class Number 5
Beginning to put together a Situation Analysis.