Business Ideas & Planning

This section covers business start up ideas and business planning. The expert advice articles will help you learn how to write an effective business plan to help secure funding and there are guides to step you through the launch of a successful business.

How I learned the ropes in my small business

Starting a business from scratch can be a challenge for most people, but especially so for individuals without previous experience. Tim Fouracre, founder and CEO of cloud accounting company Clear Books, outlines some of his key learning points on starting and growing a business.

Tips and tricks for the business paths less travelled

Here, we look at why a niche business might be a viable option.

Business Ideas & Planning

Would Santa be considered by HMRC as being in business?

Emily Coltman gives the lowdown on what Santa's annual gift extravaganza could potentially be classed as.

Business Ideas & Planning

One day to get your small business on track

Matthew Levington and Rod Davies of Business Doctors reveal how to give yourself one day to get you working on your business, rather than in it.

Business Ideas & Planning

Moving on up: A growth strategy for sole traders and SMEs

Here, we look at how to manage a growth plan in your small company.

Business Ideas & Planning

Challenges faced by small businesses

Starting a business can be foreboding but here's why things like installing point of sale equipment needn't be stressful.

Business Ideas & Planning

From prophet to profit: How entrepreneurs see into the future

There may be no guidebook to being a visionary but here, Christian Nellemann explores the things you can do to stir up creativity and generate ideas for your business.

Business Ideas & Planning

Doing business with family and friends: How to stay professional

Henry Catchpole looks at why putting shareholder agreements in place before the union can protect the company, the friendship and the future for everyone involved.

Business Ideas & Planning

From prophet to profit: How entrepreneurs see into the future

There may be no guidebook to being a visionary but here, Christian Nellemann explores the things you can do to stir up creativity and generate ideas for your business.

Business Ideas & Planning

Doing business with family and friends: How to stay professional

Henry Catchpole looks at why putting shareholder agreements in place before the union can protect the company, the friendship and the future for everyone involved.

Business Ideas & Planning

Have you got what it takes to start out as self employed?

David Bird discusses the character traits required to be successful in self employment and what to consider before taking the plunge.

Business Ideas & Planning

Considering the personal cost of setting up a company

Erin Walls, a specialist business advisor for SMEs at Ward Williams Creative, looks at the important personal considerations that need to be made before going into business.

Business Ideas & Planning