Production Process
An investor will only provide money for a business he or she understands, so walk the reader
through the stages of product production from the inception of the idea to when it can be
sold. With a service company, describe the process of delivering the service. A company that
helps its customers determine Web strategy, for example, would describe the process of
finding out about client objectives, researching current offerings on the Web, and
presenting a solution. If you were starting a winery, your production process section would
describe the harvesting, fermenting, and bottling processes.
Make or Buy
Part of your production process discussion will be a justification of the make or buy
strategy for production components. Make or buy strategy focuses on whether you will create
all components necessary for the production of your product or service in-house, or buy a
service or a product to add to yours. If you are starting a consulting business, you might
state in your plan that paying for the services of an administrative assistant (buy), will
increase profits by enabling the company principals to spend more time on money-generating
activities. A pillow production company, would discuss spikes in production and the cost
savings incurred in subcontracting sewing (buy) rather than keeping the sewing (make)
in-house.
Location, Location, Location
Also discuss geographic location for the production of your product or service. Justify this
decision as well, by talking about savings in rent or lease, convenience to suppliers,
labor, materials, or other factors important to your business.
Tips
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Be sure to justify your make or buy strategy by explaining why your approach will
lead your business to greater profits.
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Avoid the common mistake of skipping the make or buy section and justification simply
because you are starting or running a service business. If you are starting a consulting
business, make a case for why assistants and other support staff will increase profits.
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Do not forget to justify your choice of location. Some commonly-overlooked location
benefits include proximity to transportation, and availability of skilled, affordable
labor.
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If you choose to locate your business in a home office, discuss the cost-savings of this
choice of office. Also assure readers that a home office location will not be negatively
perceived in your industry.
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> See how American Express can help you cover your costs throughout your production process. |
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