--The blackout on east coast taught us to make sure we have backup plans and that our web hosting companies have back up servers, too. Do you know that most companies are so computerized that their customer service departments don't know how to process orders?

--Your death. Many business owners don't consider this possibility at all. The goal is that in case of an emergency, illness, death (or even a vacation!), your business will run efficiently without you. Is your business this ready?

Weaving these ideas into operation and administration of a business produces clarity and helps management to make informed decisions, save time, and reduce expenses. Yes, some businesses function well without groundwork for a time. However, at some point within first five years, owner(s) end up "stuck" or decide to sell their businesses. It's then that they realize that missing piece-yes, you got it-is that they're not speaking language of business -yet!

Have you added these concepts to your business?

Vision Statement Mission Statement Objectives Strategies Marketing Plan Ideal Client Profile USP (Unique Selling Proposition) ROI (Return on Investment) Assets Liabilities Back up Plans Operations/Procedure Manual Licenses Insurance Customer Service Asking for Help Hiring Help Networking

Building A Strong Business Foundation -- Getting licenses. -- Choosing a structure. -- Create a "One Page Business Plan" (TM Jim Horan). -- Business development and plans specific to gain funding. -- Develop vision/mission statement. -- Design an operations manual. -- Start interviewing people you'll be hiring as contractors. -- Locating supply, telephone, banking services, etc..

Taking Off - Marketing -- Create and implement a marketing plan based on integrity. -- Design your ideal client profile. -- Build and promote an online or off line newsletter. -- Increase sales or productivity. -- Start your Internet presence. -- Establish a community presence -- Attract more business to you. -- Establishing a community presence.

Operating and Re-evaluating? -- Monthly performance reviews. -- Quarterly business plan review. -- Client surveys. -- Look at ways to reenergize your business. -- Where can expenses be reduced? -- Design a quality assurance process. -- Develop systems to work more efficiently. -- Add or re-evaluate technology and back up systems -- Learn how to respond to change more quickly. -- Update operations manual procedures. -- Create reserves. -- Get your business ready to sell. -- Dealing with employee moral and problems.

Where must you take more risks to help your business get to next level? Are you ready?