As already discussed, company founders are most notably doers—and evidence suggests that they had better be, if the venture is to be successful. Furthermore, most entrepreneurs lack the breadth of experience and know-how, as well as the inclination, needed for planning.
An entrepreneur who is not able to answer the tough questions about the business may need a business planning advisor—someone accustomed to working with small companies, startups, and owners who lack financial management experience. Such advisors include the following:
• Attorneys, who can make sure that the company has the necessary patent pro-
tection, review contracts, consult on liability and environmental concerns, and
advise on the best form of organization.
• Marketing specialists, who can perform market analyses and evaluate market
acceptance of a new product.
Engineering and production experts, who can perfomi product development, determine technical feasibility of products, and assist in plant layout and production planning.
• Accounting firms, which can guide the development of the written plan, assist in making financial projections, and advise on establishing a system of financial control.
• Incubator organizations, which offer space for fledgling companies and can advise on structuring new businesses. (Incubators are discussed in detail in Chapters 11 and 18.)
• Small business development corporations (SBDCs) and regional and local economic development offices, which can offer general assistance.