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Business Planning

Our business planning hub has all of the essential tools, strategies and insights needed to build and maintain a successful small business — a complete resource for starting, managing and growing your business. Discover everything you need to know at business.com.

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Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article
Digital Disrupt: What Businesses Can Learn From Netflix
By Mark Fairlie | July 24, 2024

Netflix's digital disruption shows how embracing innovation, customer data and adaptability can help businesses outpace competitors and reshape industries.

Article
9 Little-Known Ways to Network With Hospitality Industry Insiders
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2024

Making contacts within the hospitality industry can create opportunities for your business. Learn how to start networking effectively.

Article
Requirements for Keeping Paycheck Records
By Julie Thompson | July 10, 2024

Employers keep paycheck records to comply with federal and state laws, complete tax returns, and use in audits. Here's what you need to know.

Article
How Color Can Impact Your Restaurant
By Sean Peek | July 09, 2024

Learn how color affects your restaurant's atmosphere and sales.

Article
Before the Business Loan: Questions That Must Be Asked
By Donna Fuscaldo | July 09, 2024

Here's a look at seven questions lenders ask small business borrowers and the reason for each one.

Article
Write Your Way to a Win: Business Proposal 101
By Jennifer Dublino | July 08, 2024

In some industries, writing business proposals is a crucial way to win new clients. Learn how to write a successful business proposal..

Article
Movin’ on Up: Why Relocating Offices Doesn’t Have to Suck
By Jennifer Dublino | July 08, 2024

Use an office relocation as an opportunity to streamline and improve operations. Learn how to make your office move a success.

Article
Should You Go Global?
By Mark Fairlie | July 05, 2024

Going global means expanding your business overseas. Learn the pros and cons of going global and what steps to take to expand your company internationally.

Article
A Gamble You Can’t Afford to Lose: Finding the Right Materials for Your Product
By Steve Cartier | July 05, 2024

Learn the crucial steps to finding the best materials for your manufactured products.

Article
12 Pain Points Entrepreneurs Should Expect and Embrace
By Sean Peek | June 28, 2024

As an entrepreneur, you have to roll with the punches. Learn how to deal with these common pain points of running a business.

Article
How Workers’ Compensation Rates Work
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 28, 2024

Workers' compensation rates are affected by several factors. Learn what workers' compensation covers, and how to calculate rates and meet requirements.

mentor consulting an intern
Article
What Is Excess Liability Insurance?
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 27, 2024

Excess liability insurance is extra coverage that kicks in once an underlying policy hits its limits. Learn how it works and what it covers.

Article
What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover?
By Nicole Urbanowicz | June 27, 2024

Commercial auto insurance is critical for businesses that operate vehicles and have employees driving for work purposes. Here is what you need to know.

Article
Builder’s Risk Insurance: Not Just for Builders
By Nicole Urbanowicz | June 27, 2024

If a property is at risk for loss or damage during construction, consider builder's risk insurance. Learn what builder's risk covers and who needs it.

Article
How to Tell if Your Business Is Growing Too Quickly (and What to Do About It)
By Mark Fairlie | June 24, 2024

While small businesses strive for growth, it's crucial to monitor signs of overburdening your company. Learn the signs of a business growing too quickly.

Article
Shake It Up: How to Identify Industries That Are Ready for Disruption
By Sean Peek | June 21, 2024

Learn how to identify industries that are ready for disruption and which markets are being shaken up.

Article
What Is Commercial Property Insurance?
By Mark Fairlie | June 21, 2024

Commercial property insurance covers the building and items that you own or lease against such perils as fire, explosions, theft, and vandalism.

Article
Benefits of Using an Order Fulfillment Service
By Sean Peek | June 14, 2024

Learn how outsourcing your e-commerce business's order fulfillment needs can streamline operations, save time and conserve resources.

Article
Welcome to the Big Leagues: At What Point Are You No Longer a Startup?
By Sean Peek | June 11, 2024

How do you know your business has passed the startup stage? Find out the key signs here.

Article
Ahead of the Pack: 8 Ways to Keep Your Business Competitive
By Sean Peek | June 06, 2024

Follow these four strategies to beat your competitors in today's cutthroat business world.

Article
How to Increase Your Restaurant’s Profits in 2025
By Sean Peek | June 03, 2024

The restaurant industry is highly competitive. Here's how your restaurant can save money and attract new customers.

woman using a laptop
Article
Common Mistakes That Can Lead to Product Failure
By Jennifer Dublino | May 31, 2024

What pitfalls cause most products to fail? Learn about these common traps so you can avoid mistakes and a failed product launch.

Article
4 Marketing Hacks to Help You Attract the Right Investors
By Jennifer Dublino | May 15, 2024

Marketing strategy is a crucial aspect of landing investors. Use your marketing skills to identify, message and pitch potential business investors.

Article
Time Crunch: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Prioritizing Your Tasks
By Jennifer Post | May 15, 2024

Entrepreneurs often find themselves overburdened with tasks. Learn how to allocate your time and prioritize your tasks.

Article
MLMs Are Preying on the Dream of Entrepreneurship
By Mona Bushnell | May 15, 2024

Learn how to tell the difference between legitimate business prospects and scams.

Article
A 6-Step Guide to Making a Change Within Your Organization
By Sean Peek | May 02, 2024

Making changes in a company isn't easy, especially for non-managers, but anyone can make a difference. Take these steps to encourage meaningful change.

Article
10 Ways to Reduce Operational Costs for Your Small Business
By Jennifer Dublino | May 02, 2024

Because small businesses operate on tight margins, sustaining a healthy profit is critical. Learn how to increase revenue and reduce expenses. 

Uptime book cove by Laura Mae Martin
Article
Maximize Your “Uptime” With Tips From Google’s Productivity Expert (Full Q&A)
By Tina Nazerian | April 25, 2024

An interview with author Laura Mae Martin

Delivery driver wearing a mask
Article
Average Commercial Car Insurance Costs
By Kimberlee Leonard | April 24, 2024

The average cost of commercial car insurance depends on vehicle, location, driving record, industry, and more. Learn how to choose the right coverage.

Article
Apple vs. Apple: 6 Trademark Cases and What You Should Learn From Them 
By Sean Peek | April 24, 2024

You could be committing trademark infringement without knowing it. Learn from these six trademark cases.