Monday, December 13, 2010

Is there a resource for developing a marketing plan?

The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a comprehensive guide called Marketing Your Business for Success online at its website. The top level elements of the plan are;
1. Define your business. Product or service, geographic marketing area, competition, price, promotion methods (both yours and your competition's), your business location or distribution method.
2. Define your customers. Their demographic characteristics (age, gender, income,location),how they will learn about your business and their buying habits.
3. Define your marketing plan and budget. Previous marketing methods used and their effectiveness and future methods to consider.
To access the guide, go to http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/manage/marketandprice/serv_marketingplans.html.