computer training business plan sample

Computer Training Center Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Education Sector

Are you about starting a computer training center? If YES, here is a complete sample computer training center business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a computer training center. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample computer training center marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for computer training centers. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

If you are interested in starting a business in the ICT industry, one of the options open to you especially if you are interested in imparting knowledge is to open a computer training center. Just like most businesses in the ICT industry, computer training center business is open to as many people that are interested in the industry as long as they have the required experience and qualifications.

In order to capture a fair share of the available market in your location, you would need a good website that is Search Engine Optimization (SEO) compliant. The truth is that your website ensures that your business remains visible to your customers. You can even ensure that your customers get to book and pay online so as to make it more convenient for them.

Lastly, you would need a good business plan to be able to launch a successful business and below is a workable computer training center business plan template that will help you to draft yours.

A Sample Computer Training Center Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The computer training services industry is made up of centers that offer vocational and technical courses. They also provide courses in computer programming, which include curriculums for software packages, computerized business systems, computer electronics technology and local area network management.

It is important to state that computer training centers may also train their students via online platforms. The computer training services industry provides vocational and certification training in a range of IT-related skills. The industry provides training in computer programming, software development, computer electronics technology and network administration.

Players in this industry range from small private companies providing certified training in specific IT areas, to larger software companies providing training and certifications in their proprietary software such as SAP, Oracle and IBM. Going forward, the computer training services industry is expected to continue declining as competition from other forms of higher education and online learning platforms continue to reduce enrollment in computer training centers.

The Computer Training Services Industry is indeed a large industry and pretty much active in all the countries of the world.

Statistics have it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 16,195 registered and licensed computer training centers scattered all across the United States responsible for directly employing about 2,329 people and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $3 billion annually.

The industry is projected to grow at -0.4 percent annual growth within 2012 and 2017. It is important to state that SkillSoft has a largest chunk of the available market in the industry.

Please note that the computer training industry has low barriers to entry. The majority of the businesses in this industry are owner operated, and there are few major players that control significant portions of the industry’s total market. In addition, classroom facilities and equipment can be rented on an as-needed basis, resulting in relatively low initial infrastructure costs.

The main factors that may prevent new players from joining the industry include course development and accreditation costs, as well as a moderate level of regulation. Among computer training schools, rapidly changing technology can be costly. Operators must balance the benefit of offering up-to-date courses with the cost of producing such coursework.

The tough part as it relates to start-up costs most likely is the need to secure a standard and well – positioned facility. Regardless of moderate barriers to entry, the competitive nature of the industry makes it very difficult for new operators to break even within a short period of time in the industry.

Lastly, the computer training school services industry is pretty much open for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch their business in the industry.

One good thing about computer training center business is that the business can be opened in any part of the United States and if proper market survey and feasibility studies are conducted, then you can be rest assured of profitability of the business.

2. Executive Summary

The name of our business is Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC; we are a registered and accredited computer training school that will be located in Atlantic Avenue, – Delray Beach, Florida. We are registered under the United States’ Government. We are well equipped to train people that want to acquire computer or IT related skills.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will offer computer cum IT trainings such as computer programming, computer software package training, computer systems and database training, computer electronics technology training, Local area network (LAN) management training and vocational training.

We are set to service a wide range of clientele in the whole of Atlantic Avenue – Delray Beach, Florida, we will ensure that we regularly update our teaching approach to meet up the trend in the industry.

At Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC we are passionate in the pursuit of excellence with uncompromising services and integrity which is why we have decided to start our own computer training center in Atlantic Avenue – Delray Beach, Florida; we are in the industry to make a positive mark.

We are quite optimistic that our values and quality of service offering will help us drive our computer training center to enviable heights and also help us attract the number of students that will make the business highly profitable. Our company will be dedicated to establishing good business relationship with our students giving them value for their money and reasons why they should continue to recommend their family members and friends to us.

We are in the computer training Industry to favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry both in the United States and in the globe. Our corporate business goal is to be among the top 5 computer training schools in the United States of America.

As a company, we are willing to go the extra mile to invest in some of the finest professionals (computer cum ICT trainers / instructors) we can find and also, we have put processes and structures in place that will ensure that we are always at the top of our game when it comes to impacting knowledge as it relates to our computer training services. We have been able to secure permits from all relevant departments in the State of Florida.

We are quite aware that in order to become the number one choice in our city, we must continue to deliver quality and practical computer training and that is exactly what we will do. We are open to the use of latest technology in our line of business.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is owned and managed by Edgar Jones and his immediate family members.  

Edgar Jones has a Degree: B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; M.S. degree in Computer Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; MBA from the University Of Chicago Booth School Of Business.

3. Our Products and Services

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is an accredited computer training school that offers a wide range of training services that revolves around the computer training industry. We will be dedicated to establishing good business relationship with our students by giving them value for their money and reasons for why they should continue to recommend their family members and friends to us.

We are in the computer training industry to make profits and we will ensure that we do all that is permitted by the law in the United States to achieve our business aim and objectives. These are the services we will offer as a computer training center;

• Provision of programming training
• Provision of software package training
• Provision of computer systems and database training
• Provision of computer electronics technology training
• Provision of vocational training
• Local area network (LAN) management training

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to become the number one government approved computer training school in the whole of Atlantic Avenue, – Delray Beach, Florida, United States of America.
• Our mission as a government approved computer training school is to develop a highly successful, and profitable computer training center which provides quality training in our community and to become a standard for computer training schools not only in Atlantic Avenue, – Delray Beach, Florida, but also throughout the United States of America and Canada where we intend attracting students.

Our Business Structure

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is aware that the success of any business lies in the foundation on which the business is built on, which is why we have decided to build our computer training center on the right business foundation.

As a matter of fact, we will build a computer training center that will be a standard for the computer training school line of business in the United States of America.

We want to build a dedicated workforce that will go all the way to ensure that our students are satisfied and they get value for their money when they enroll in our computer training school.

We aware that it takes a business with the right employees and structure to achieve all what we have set to achieve, which is why we will be putting structures and standard operating processes in place that will help us deliver excellent training to our students.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will employ professionals and skilled people to occupy the following position;

• Head of The School / School Coordinator

School Administrator

ICT Instructors

Marketing and Sales Executive

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Head of the School / School Coordinator:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions.
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the computer training school
• Design job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for tutors (ICT instructors)
• Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of the schools’ Policies, Procedures and Processes
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily activities of the school.
• Responsible for handling computer cum IT trainings such as computer programming training, computer software package training, computer systems and database training, computer electronics technology training, Local area network (LAN) management training and vocational training et al
• Accesses the progress of students under their care
• Ensure that students abide by the rules and regulations of the regulating bodies in the United States of America
• Receives complaints from students and channel it to the appropriate quarters
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the school coordinator.
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new students, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the student’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding sales
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the school.
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization.
• Welcomes students and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with students on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the school coordinator in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the schools’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to students when they make enquiries
• Distributes mails in the organization

6. SWOT Analysis

Computer training school is one of the many businesses that can easily generate business deals with little stress as long as they are well positioned and equipped to carry out their trainings. We are building a standard computer training center which is why we have decided to subject our business idea to SWOT Analysis.

Ordinarily we can successfully run a normal computer training center without the stress of going through the required protocol of setting up a new business including writing a detailed business plan, but because of the nature of the kind of computer training center we want to establish, we don’t have any option other than to follow due process.

We hired the services of a Business consultant with bias in startups to help us conduct SWOT analysis for our company and she did a pretty job for us. Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC;

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is centrally located in a densely populated residential estate in the heart of Atlantic Avenue, – Delray Beach, Florida; our location is in fact one of our major strengths because we are in a location with the right demography for the kind of business we run.

Another strength that counts for us is the power of our team. We have a team that are considered experts in the computer training school line of business, a team of hardworking and dedicated individuals.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is a new business which is owned by an individual (family), and we may not have the financial muscle to sustain the kind of publicity we want to give our business.

• Opportunities:

We are centrally located in one of the busiest areas in Delray Beach – Florida and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer. Our business concept and staff strength also positioned us to accommodate over 200 students per time.

The truth is that there are no standard computer training centers within the area where ours is going to be located; the closest one to our proposed location is about 6 miles away. In a nutshell, we do not have any direct competition within our target market area.

Some of the threats that are likely going to confront Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC are unfavorable government policies , seasonal fluctuations, demographic / social factors, downturn in the economy which is likely going to affect consumers spending and of course emergence of new competitors within the same location where our computer training center is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The key to attracting students is the ease at which students learn different computer skill sets in a training school. Any computer training center that has good records and loads of positive testimonials from students who have passed through the school will always thrive.

Another common trend in the computer training industry is that in the bid to survive global economic meltdown and to ensure steady flow of income to effectively run the business, most players in the industry engage in other related services.

Some of them even go as far as establishing agency services to provide certified ICT professionals for clients and some also offer specialized home training for executive students et al.

8. Our Target Market

Before choosing a location for our computer training center, we conducted thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we were able to identify those who will benefit greatly from our service offerings. Basically, those who will benefit from our service offering are students and workers, people who want to get ICT skills and certifications.

Our Competitive Advantage

Despite the fact that the computer training center business has stiff huddles to scale through does not mean that there are no real competitions in the industry. The truth is that no matter the line of business that you are involved in, as long as it is called business, you will definitely face one form of competition or the other and computer training school is not an exemption.

So, if you are looking towards setting up this type of business, it is advisable to do your due diligence before launching the business if indeed you want to succeed. We are well trained and equipped to compete in the computer training school services industry in the United States of America.

Our competitive edge is that we are a government approved computer training center that is centrally located in a densely populated residential estate in the heart of Delray Beach – Florida; our location is in fact one of our major strengths because we are in a location with the right demography for the kind of business we run. Another strength that counts for us is the power of our team.

Lastly, we have the ability to develop courses for new technology, we have a good reputation and the ability to alter services in favor of market conditions.

Plus, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the computer training school services industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to attract clients on a regular basis. Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will generate income by offering the following services;

10. Sales Forecast

The fact that the ICT industry is gaining prominence in various aspects of our daily business, means that the services of computer training schools will always be needed.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in and around Delray Beach – Florida and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough profits from our first six months of operation and grow our computer training center and our student base.

We have been able to critically examine the computer training school line of business, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast.

• First Fiscal Year: N240, 000
• Second Fiscal Year: N650, 000
• Third Fiscal Year: N950, 000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown or any major competitor offering the same services as we do within the same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

The marketing strategy for Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is going to be driven by excellent customer service and quality training delivery. We want to drive sales via the output of our jobs and via referral from our satisfied students.

We are quite aware of how satisfied students drive business growth especially businesses like computer training schools.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is strategically located and we are going to maximize the opportunities that are available to us, which is why we spent more to locate the business where it will be visible and accessible to our target market.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be equipped to meet the overall goal of Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC.

Our goal is to grow Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC to become the leading computer training center in Delray Beach – Florida which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with in our line of business.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our computer training center by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to schools, corporate organizations and other key stake holders in and around Delray Beach – Florida
• Print out fliers and business cards and strategically drop them in offices, libraries, public facilities and train stations et al.
• Use friends and family to spread word about our computer training center
• Post information about our computer training center and the services we offer on bulletin boards in places like schools, libraries, and local coffee shops et al
• Place a small or classified advertisement in the newspaper, or local publication about our computer training center and the services we offer
• Leverage on referral networks such as agencies that will attract students who would need our services.
• Advertise our computer training center in relevant entertainment magazines, newspapers, TV and radio stations.
• Attend relevant expos, seminars, and business fairs et al to market our services
• Engage in direct marketing approach.
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied students.
• Join local chambers of commerce and industry and other relevant groups to market our services.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is set to create a standard for the computer training school line of business not only in Delray Beach – Florida, but throughout the United States of America which is why we will go all the way to adopt and apply best practices to promote our business.

Good enough there is no hard and fast rule on how to advertise or promote a business like a computer training school. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC;

• Encourage our loyal students to help us use Word of Mouth mode of advertisement (referrals)
• Advertise our business in relevant education cum ICT magazines, local newspaper, local TV and radio stations
• Promote our business online via our official website
• List our business inn local directories (yellow pages)
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Delray Beach – Florida
• Direct coupon mailing approach
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our customized clothes; all our official cars are customized and well branded.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will charge our students flat fees except for few occasions where there will be need for us to charge special students on hourly basis.

At Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC we will keep our fees below the average market rate for all of our students by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our students at regular intervals.

We are aware that there are some students that would need special assistance, we will offer flat rate for services that will be tailored to take care of such students’ needs. The prices of our services will be same as what is obtainable in the open market.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation in the United States of America. Here are the payment options that Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via mobile money platform
• Payment via Point of Sale Machines (POS Machine)
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payments for our services. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for your workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your vision and aspirations for your business. The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a standard computer training school; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. We have been able to pull cash that will be enough for us to successfully launch a government approved computer training center in Delray Beach – Florida. These are the key areas where we will spend our startup capital on;

• The total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,500.
• Marketing promotion expenses (8,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of – $10,000.
• The total cost for hiring Business Consultant – $5,000.
• The amount needed for the purchase of insurance policy covers (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $30,800.
• The total cost for the purchase of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
• The total cost for leasing facility for the business – $150,000.
• The total cost for the purchase of computers, laptops and other related software and hardware – $280,000
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and utility deposits – $3,500
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $40,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, snooker board, tables and chairs et al) – $ 4,000.
• The cost of launching a Website – $600
• The cost for our grand opening party – $15,000
• Miscellaneous – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about four hundred and fifty thousand ( 450,000 ) U.S. dollars to successfully set up a medium scale but standard computer training center business in the United States of America.

Generating Startup for Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is a business that will be owned and managed by Edgar Jones and his immediate family members. They are the sole financiers of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start up capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $150,000 ( Personal savings $100,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $300,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business, then it won’t be too long before the business closes shop.

One of our major goals of starting Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our ICT training services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Pinnacle Hub® Computer Training Center, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard facility and reconstructing the facility: Completed
• Purchase of reliable computers, laptops, hardware and software: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating official website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

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How to Start a Computer Training Business

A computer training business helps clients improve their computer skills. Classes are offered at different skill levels, from basics all the way up to advanced applications. Their clients range from corporations to private individuals, each sharing one common goal — to be more computer literate.

Learn how to start your own Computer Training Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a computer training business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Computer Training Business
• Form your Computer Training Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Computer Training Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Computer Training Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Computer Training Business
• Get Computer Training Business Insurance
• Define your Computer Training Business Brand
• Create your Computer Training Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your computer training business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is very important. Read our detailed guide on how to name your business . We recommend checking if the business name you choose is available as a web domain and securing it early so no one else can take it.

Want some help naming your computer training business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a computer training business.

Startup costs to launch this type of business vary depending on the business model. Many computer educators work from home, traveling to their clients or teaching classes online. Others go big from the start, opening an educational facility complete with state-of-the-art equipment.

Launching a home-based computer education program requires little more than computers, software, training materials, insurance, and an advertising budget. This can be done for $2,000 or less.

Opening a training facility, however, requires a significantly higher startup budget. An 850 square foot facility, equipped with multiple computers, furniture, fixtures, and staff, costs $55,000 to $80,000. Exact costs vary based on your region, the number of team members you employ, and how much equipment you plan to start with.

If you have the necessary computer knowledge but aren’t sure where to start, consider one of the many franchise opportunities. While most franchises have specific rules regarding how much startup capital you must have, many new business owners find that they save money in the long run. Aligning yourself with the right franchise gives you access to a proven business model, marketing support, and brand recognition.3

What are the ongoing expenses for a computer training business?

A home-based computer training business faces few ongoing expenses. Your budget should include office supplies, equipment maintenance, travel expenses, marketing, business insurance, payroll, and printing costs for educational materials.

If you elect to open a training facility, you will need to budget for additional expenses. These include rent, utilities, building maintenance, and additional business insurance.

Whichever route you take, your annual budget should also include ongoing education and certification for you and your staff. Consider this an investment in your business’s future growth and stability.

Who is the target market?

When creating your detailed business plan, spend ample time researching what computer skills are in high demand. Identify what parts of the market are oversaturated and avoid those. Focus on niches that lack quality training. This will help you clearly identify your target market and develop a targeted marketing plan.

Examples of target niches include:

• Individuals who have just purchased their first computer
• Fortune 500 companies who require Microsoft training for their workforce
• Real estate agents who lack desktop publishing skills
• Human resources software training
• Patient management software training for physicians and medical staff

How does a computer training business make money?

Your computer training business will make money by charging a fee for your educational services. Most computer trainers charge a flat hourly rate or a flat fee per class session.

Pricing will vary depending on the course and educational setting. A basic online computer class might cost $49, while more advanced training might cost $175 per person. The average cost for a private training course is $40-$60, depending on the material taught.

How much profit can a computer training business make?

The estimated profit for the 850 square foot facility we mentioned earlier is almost $49,000 in the first year. The second and third year’s estimated profits are just over $77,000.

Now, let’s look at a home-based training business that teaches three hour-long classes six days/week at $175/person. If each class has seven students in it, this comes to $3,675 per week. While the revenue looks significantly lower, your overhead expenses are minimal. If you have $1,000 in monthly overhead expenses, your annual profits will reach almost $165,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Diversity is key in this profession. Offer a wide range of classes and attendance options. Offering access to your training materials for a small fee is a great way to boost your business’s annual profits.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your computer training business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a computer training business

Once you’ve identified your target niches, you can develop a marketing strategy that reaches them. For example, patient management software training includes doctors and medical staff. Approach doctors offices, medical facilities, and hospitals to let them know how you can help them. Place ads in medical journals, online publications, and forums. Create targeted social media ads for the medical community. Be particular about how you go about targeting a niche audience.

In this competitive industry, it’s important that you establish your business as an industry authority. This means crafting quality content that addresses your target niche’s pain points. Your website should add value and showcase client success stories.

How to keep customers coming back

While this is a competitive industry, it’s also recession-proof and is in no danger of becoming obsolete. In fact, business owners who are committed to expanding their own knowledge and keeping up with emerging technology trends can find themselves busier than their business plan predicted. Your commitment to your clients and their pain points will create a dependency that ensures your clients keep coming back for more.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Do you have a firm understanding of computers and software? Are computers your passion, and do you enjoy passing your knowledge on to others? Are you ready to be your own boss and take charge of your own future? If so, launching a computer training business could be the ideal business venture.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a computer training business?

As a computer trainer, you will spend your days educating clients on all things related to computers. From computer basics to advanced software applications, it’s your job to ensure every student leaves with newfound computer confidence.

When you aren’t teaching, you will spend your time honing your own skills and learning about new and emerging industry trends. Your clients will look to you as an authority figure on the subject. Gaining and maintaining their trust means you should know about technological advancements and changes as soon as they’re announced.

While your computer knowledge is what will generate revenue, this knowledge is wasted if you don’t have any customers. Therefore, it’s important that you dedicate part of your time to a marketing strategy and other business-related tasks.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful computer training business?

Success in computer training requires advanced computer knowledge and the ability to effectively share that knowledge with others. You must be able to communicate with students from all backgrounds and skill levels.

Depending on your business model, you may work in a group setting or provide one-on-one training. Education sessions should be organized and detailed. It’s also important that you remain flexible and patient. Keep in mind, most of your students are intimidated by the very idea of learning about computers. Therefore, it’s important that your passion for computers shines through and that you create a safe and engaging learning environment.

While not a requirement, having computer certifications is strongly recommended. Your certifications will show customers that you possess the skills you claim to have and that you value your own education. Since there are a number of specialized certifications, this will also help in targeting specific niches.

What is the growth potential for a computer training business?

While the computer training sector is competitive, there is significant room for growth. Business owners with long-term growth goals are encouraged to write a well thought out business plan with defined goals and a growth strategy.

The annual average companies spend on general staff training is $3,000, with $8,200 spent on information systems training. Before launching your business, conduct research on where the greatest opportunities lie and focus your energies there. Play on your strengths and offer training programs that set you apart from the competition.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a computer training business?

Having extensive computer knowledge doesn’t automatically make you a great teacher. Successful computer trainers recommend practicing over and over before putting yourself in front of a class. In addition to practicing, they also recommend attending a few courses for yourself. Pay attention to how the instructor communicates and interacts, which subjects are difficult for students to grasp, and what teaching methods work best.

When determining what classes you’ll offer, consider what computer and software knowledge is in high demand. If a professional stands to land a better job with certain skills, they are more apt to pay for your training course. Examples of software skills that are in high demand are Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Visual Basics.

Consider joining one of the many industry-related associations . This will serve as a networking tool and help with your business’s professional development.

How and when to build a team

When you build your team depends on your business model. If you open a facility, you’ll need staff to manage the day-to-day operations and educators to teach the classes you offer.

Everyone, from the front office employee to your teachers, should have a firm understanding of computer basics. When selecting teachers, consider your strengths and weaknesses. Hire educators that play on your strengths and fill in the gaps where your skills are lacking. This ensures a well-rounded educational center and positions you for future growth.

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

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Start a Computer Training Business

Coding the Future: Transforming Your Passion into a Computer Training Empire

COMPUTER TRAINING BUSINESS

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IT Services Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

IT Services Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their IT companies.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating an IT business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write an IT business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is an IT Services Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your IT business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for IT Company

If you’re looking to start an IT business or grow your existing IT company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your IT business to improve your chances of success. Your IT business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for IT Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for an IT business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for IT companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for an it services business.

If you want to start an IT business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your IT business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of IT business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have an IT business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of IT businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the IT industry.
• Discuss the type of IT business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of IT business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of IT businesses:

• Computer repair: This type of IT business provides computer maintenance and repair services.
• Computer training: This type of IT professional specializes in teaching others how to use computers as well as various software and computer programs.
• IT support: This type of IT professional provides services for businesses such as setting up a network, backing up data, and systems management.
• Cloud computing: This type of IT specialist helps individuals and businesses establish cloud platforms and tools, or may help to migrate their information to the cloud.

In addition to explaining the type of IT business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of new clients served, the number of repeat clients, reaching $X amount in revenue, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the IT industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the IT industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your IT business plan:

• How big is the IT industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your IT business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your IT business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of IT business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

Finish Your IT Business Plan in 1 Day!

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With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other IT businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes other types of IT consultants, in-house IT support, or do-it-yourself IT tutorials. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of IT business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you make it easier for clients to acquire your product or service?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For an IT business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of IT company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide cloud computing, data center management, or network setup services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your IT company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your IT business located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your IT marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your IT business, including answering calls, meeting with new clients, billing and collecting payments from clients, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to acquire your Xth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your IT business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your IT business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing IT businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing an IT business or successfully running a small IT consulting service.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you charge your clients an hourly rate of $250 per hour, and will you work 5 hours per day? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your IT business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing an IT business:

• Cost of equipment and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a list of your IT credentials.

Writing a business plan for your IT business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert on IT business planning. You will understand the IT industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful IT business.

IT Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my it services business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your IT services business plan.

How Do You Start an IT Services Business?

Starting an IT business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your IT Business
• Create Your IT Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your IT Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your IT Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your [Sector] Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your IT Business
• Buy or Lease the Right IT Business Equipment
• Develop Your IT Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your IT Business
• Open for Business

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your IT business plan?

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Computer Programming Business Plan

Start your own computer programming business plan

Gaming Futures, LLC

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Gaming Futures, LLC, provides Windows ® application development/support, PlayStation2 ® development, XBox ® development, 2D and 3D art and visual effects, and project guidance. Gaming Futures is a game development studio formed by veterans of Modicum On-Line and Axiomatic InterRational. As developers of the best-selling and critically acclaimed “DreæmWhyrks” series, Gaming Futures’ talented core team members have produced five titles together, and have individual experience with dozens more. Gaming Futures is committed to creating high-quality, innovative, successful games and software.

We offer the following:

• Game concepts and development for PC, PS2 ® , XBox ® , Pocket PC ® .
• Game platform ports: PC/PS2/XBox/Game Boy ® .
• 2D and 3D art, programming, libraries to spec.
• Interface design and software enhancement.
• Cohesive, talented development team with years of experience shipping products together.
• Proven track record: DreæmWhyrks series has over 3 million units sold to date.
• On time and on budget shipping.

The company is forming out of the ashes of Axiomatic InterRational which shut down last June. Gaming Futures is the core group of the last DreæmWhyrks project at Axiomatic. The DreæmWhyrks line has shipped over 3 million units. The production team has four years of successful product development as a team. Individually, the group has over 30 years of experience and has contributed to over 40 software products.

Bill Kerl, Project Manager for Gaming Futures, believes the company is well positioned to be a valuable resource to gaming companies that are seeking cost-effective ways to implement a gaming design mission that will meet projected completion dates. One of the greatest obstacles is the ability of the production team to perform without wasted effort and resources. Gaming Futures has a documented history of completing its projects under budget and on time.

Currently, the company has been successful in acquiring three contracts with the following companies:

• Clear Mountain Productions
• Weaver Farm, Inc.

Note: Windows ® , PlayStation2 ® , PS2 ® , Xbox ® , Pocket PC ® , and Game Boy ® are registered trademarks of their respective corporations.

1.1 Objectives

Gaming Futures’ objectives are as follows:

• Achieve sales goal of $200,000 during first year of operation.
• Achieve a customer base of 40 companies.
• Increase sales by 15% during the second year of operation.

1.2 Mission

The mission of Gaming Futures is to provide the highest quality service through the development of innovative, exciting products to the interactive entertainment industry.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Gaming Futures, LLC, is a game development studio providing Windows application development/support, PS2 development, XBox development, 2D and 3D art and visual effects, and project guidance. The company will be organized as a Limited Liability Corporation.

2.1 Company Ownership

Gaming Futures, LLC is owned by its team of developers:

• Bill Kerl
• Diane Huber
• Marcus Hathcock
• Jillian Daley
• Jeremy Lang

2.2 Company Locations and Facilities

Gaming Futures is located in a 3,000 square foot office space in the Northwest Industrial Park in northwest Madison.

2.3 Start-up Summary

The start-up expense for the Gaming Futures is focused primarily on equipment and office space. William, Diane, Marcus, Jillian, and Jeremy will each invest $35,000. In addition, Gaming Futures will secure a $100,000 long term loan.

Gaming Futures’ cohesive, talented development team offer their clients:

• Game concepts and development for PC, PS2, Xbox, Pocket PC
• Game platform ports: PC/PS2/Xbox/Game Boy

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

According to a new report from DFC Intelligence, recent sales indicate that the video game market is poised for impressive growth. The report forecasts that annual unit sales of video games and PC games in the U.S. is expected to grow over 40% from 2001 to 2006. The successful introduction of four new game systems in 2000 and 2001 meant that the industry was able to avoid the major downturn in sales that has occurred in past platform transitions. According to DFC Intelligence, the industry should experience another year of record sales in 2002.

The interactive games industry is a major economic force. With an estimated global value of some $10 to $20 billion, the industry rivals Hollywood in revenues and is now recognized as a propulsive force behind the creation of markets for information and communication technologies. Games account for nearly one-third of consumer software sales in North America.

4.1 Target Market Segment Strategy

Not only was the video game market not slowed by a softening economy or the terrorist attacks, but 2001 turned out to be the best year ever for the U.S. video game industry. The total U.S. video game industry grew from $6.6 billion in 2000 to $9.4 billion in 2001. The previous all-time record was $6.9 billion in 1999.

DFC estimates that by 2006 the three leading games systems, the Sony PlayStation2, the Microsoft Xbox and the Nintendo GameCube, should have combined U.S. sales of over 60 million units. The report forecasts strong sales for all three systems. There are currently 3,000 gaming companies that are producing games for one or more of the leading gaming systems. While strong market growth is predicted, there are also many challenges facing the interactive entertainment industry.

Sales of the total U.S. interactive entertainment software market, which includes PC entertainment and video game software, approached $6 billion in 2001 versus $5.4 billion in 2000, DFC found. Console and portable software sales rose 8.3 percent in unit sales, compared to 2000, while PC entertainment software experienced a unit increase of 3.8 percent. The main challenge is that while unit sales are expected to rise rapidly, development and marketing costs are also soaring.

4.2 Service Business Analysis

Companies are combating development costs by outsourcing segments of the development project. Currently, it is estimated that 30% of project work is outsourced. There are a number of advantages to this strategy.

By outsourcing, companies can take advantage of a tremendous gaming experience base without paying the personnel price tag to retain the talent on payroll. By negotiating a price for the outsourcing, companies can also cap development cost. More importantly, as few larger companies compete in the marketplace for dominance, a number of service firms will emerge to fill the demand for quality developers that are necessary for specific projects, much like the rest of software industry. It is estimated that product development in the software industry can save upwards to 30% of development costs by outsourcing key elements of the development process.

4.2.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

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Currently there are 100+ firms that compete for outsourcing contracts in the interactive game industry. Because of the unique cultural aspect of the interactive gaming community, companies specialize in gaming devices or user groups in order to gain advantage in the proposal process.

The team’s track record is the most important pivotal issue when competing for outsourcing contracts. A firm that has an intact team that has achieved past project goals has an advantage in the bidding process. Production companies are looking for assurances that deadlines will be met and the quality will be there. The production of a game is on a tight schedule and any missed deadline will ripple effect over the entire project, and could result in missed revenues and increased expenses.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Gaming Futures’ developers, William Kerl and Diane Huber, have extensive connections throughout the gaming industry. They will be responsible for marketing the company’s services to potential customers.

5.1 Competitive Edge

The competitive advantage of Gaming Futures is always bringing in a project before the projected deadline. As noted in the Market Analysis Summary, one of the greatest challenges will be production costs. Nowhere is this more critical than with outsourced projects. If a company can produce by deadline, they will get more work.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

William Kerl and Diane Huber will approach the 120 production companies that are currently producing video games. A marketing CD has been created for these presentations.

William and Diane have begun the process of presenting their company’s services to gaming production companies. The team has created a presentation program that will be the centerpiece of the marketing program.

Currently, the company has been successful in acquiring three contracts with the following companies:

The company will continue to aggressively pursue new contracts.

5.3 Sales Strategy

Gaming Futures anticipates that sales will start during the third month. The first two months of operation will have flat sales. After that point, sales will increase.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

The following is the sales forecast for three years. The owners have agreed not to take a salary for the first three months of the operation, and during this phase all five owners will be involved in sales.

5.4 Milestones

The accompanying table lists important program milestones, with dates and managers in charge, and budgets for each. The milestone schedule indicates our emphasis on planning for implementation.

What the table doesn’t show is the commitment behind it. Our business plan includes complete provisions for plan-vs.-actual analysis, and we will hold monthly follow-up meetings to discuss the variance and course corrections.

Personnel Plan

Gaming Futures staff is as follows:

Bill Kerl- Producer/New Business Starting out with games in 1993 programming on the 3DO, then programming and producing DreæmWhyrks games since 1995, Bill is driven to get things out. Planning for success is the most important part of any project.

Diane Huber – Lead Engineer Diane has been programming computers for over 25 years and has been making great games for the last 15 years, including DreæmWhyrks, Mighty Quinn, and Fire Mountain.

Marcus Hathcock- Programmer/GamePlay Marcus is a software engineer who has 5 years experience implementing interfaces and gameplay; most of this time was spent working on the DreæmWhyrks series at Axiomatic.

Jillian Daley- Senior Software Engineer With 11 years programming experience building games, tools, and technologies, she’s been involved in all aspects of several full 3D sims including Penthesilea and the DreæmWhyrks series.

Jeremy Lang- Software Engineer Jeremy has specialized in using artificial intelligence to simulate physical events. For the past six years Jeremy’s projects at Axiomatic have included the DreæmWhyrks series, Mighty Quinn, Fire Mountain, and Storm Warnings.

6.1 Management Team Gaps

Currently, the firm doesn’t have a corporate leader to manage the anticipated growth of the company during its third year of operation and beyond. As sales grow, the focus will be on production. The management of the company’s resources and decisions on how to effectively grow the firm will demand an individual with extensive management expertise as well as experience in the interactive gaming industry. This is critical vacancy will be addressed during the third year. The firm will hire a President to fill this role.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The following is the financial plan for Gaming Futures. The various topic tables display annual figures for the first three years. Monthly figures for the first year are presented in the appendix.

7.1 Break-even Analysis

The following table and chart show our Break-even Analysis.

7.2 Projected Profit and Loss

The following table and charts highlight the projected profit and loss for three years.

7.3 Projected Cash Flow

The following table and chart highlights the projected cash flow for three years.

7.4 Projected Balance Sheet

The following table highlights the projected balance sheet for three years.

7.5 Business Ratios

Business ratios for the years of this plan are shown below. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7371, Computer Programming Services, are shown for comparison.

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Computer Training Service Business Plan

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• Computer Training Service Business Business Plan

Computer Training Service Business

BUSINESS PLAN       ENHANCED OCCUPATIONS CENTER

1211 Bailey Drive Seattle, Washington 98121

Computer training services have an excellent profitability level and growth rate. Our competitive edge along with new training techniques puts EOC at the forefront of training services. We are living in an age where computer knowledge is a must and the market for computer training services is booming.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Company history, market analysis summary, business strategy & implementation, management summary, financial plan.

Enhanced Occupations Center is a computer training service business located at 1505 N. Fifth Street, Seattle, Washington. This business plan was developed for the purpose of a business loan in the amount of $71,500. Our projected sales for 2000 alone are $122,448 and our projected profits are over $30,000.

Computer training services, as shown in our plan, have an excellent profitability level and growth rate. Our competitive edge along with new training techniques puts EOC at the forefront of training services. We are living in an age where computer knowledge is a must and the market for computer training services is booming. Our training center will differ from the traditional computer training services (usually offered by colleges and universities) because of our added personal touch.

The Enhanced Occupations Center (EOC) knows firsthand that computer training has to meet all of its customers' needs in order to have a tangible lasting impact. When you measure across multiple customer segments—each of which has its own priorities—you see how much more training must do to consistently and simultaneously satisfy participants, managers, and executives. Training then can move to close those gaps and deliver more real value. Closing those gaps between employer skill needs and employee skills development is the main objective of EOC.

EOC's other objectives are:

• To meet the computer training needs of computer users and area businesses by the way of Skill Assessment and Goal-Based Training.
• Retain new and current students through Step-Level Based computer training.
• Re-assess students upon completion of computer training to record skill level improvements.
• Monitor outcomes of student completions after a 30-day period to track new employment or computer-related improvements.
• Adjust the computer training program as needed and according to outcomes.
• Continue to assess our own staff's computer training skill level and effectiveness.
• Sales of $122,448 in 2000 and $200,192 by 2002.

EOC's mission is to understand what our students and businesses hope to achieve and dedicate our computer training and development to the fulfillment of those goals. The computer training we provide is contributing visibly and substantially to the fulfillment of our area business's strategies.

EOC will maintain financial balance, charge a high value for our services, and deliver an even higher value to our clients. EOC will make computer user techniques accessible to hundreds of computer users who would otherwise not have the updated knowledge to use them. EOC will make a profit and generate cash. We will provide a rewarding work environment and fair compensation to our employees, ultimately provide excellent value to our customers and a fair return to our owners.

Keys to Success

EOC's keys to success include: implementing an effective cash flow plan, achieving efficiency, running our training like a business, and maintaining a serious business discipline to everything in our training.

EOC's cash flow plan is to:

• Maintain enough money on hand each month to pay the cash obligations the following month.
• Identify and eliminate deficiencies or surpluses in cash.
• Alter business financial plans to provide more cash if deficiencies are found.
• Invest any revealed excess cash in an accessible, interest bearing, low-risk account, such as a savings account or short-term CD or T-bill.
• Eliminate credit and terms to customers.
• Clearly understand the computer training market, distributions costs and competition, and continually adjusting accordingly.
• Keep enough cash, as an added cushion for security, on hand to cover expenses.
• Reduce accountant expenses by producing our own summary statistics and projections.

To achieve effectiveness EOC will:

• Link our training and development to business strategy by understanding what our customers hope to achieve and dedicating training and development to the fulfillment of those goals.
• Focus on business issues rather than training content by working tirelessly to offer training that matches new and emerging demands.
• Let our customer demand shape our training and development offerings by providing a core curriculum designed to train individuals in basic skills and core competencies. We will also conduct ongoing needs assessments across the organization aimed at making training more strategic and providing training that has more business impact.
• Clarify our training and development business mission by avoiding trying to be all things to all people. EOC will offer more than training to develop employee skills. The training EOC will provide will also contribute—visible and substantially—to fulfillment of our customers' business strategies.
• See training and development as an enterprise, not as a function by:
• 1. Maintaining intense focus on our customers, their issues, and their needs.
• 2. Being systematic in our efforts to meet those needs efficiently, consistently, and reliably.
• 3. Daring to pursue missions that are linked to the business strategy and focused on business issues; willingly tackling big challenges, even those that are difficult and risky; being ambitious, alert, confident, and pragmatic.

To achieve cost efficiency EOC will:

• Expose hidden costs for businesses by allowing them to see their "true" training costs such as lost productivity, wasted training investments, or lost opportunity. Teaching these businesses how to measure training costs, and what they are getting back from their training.
• Aggressively reduce costs by eliminating duplication.• Build and maintain reliable systems and processes by putting reliable training and development systems and processes in place.
• Operate as a variable cost, not a fixed expense, by understanding that customers spend only at their own initiative. Making training a variable cost makes especially good sense now that the pace of change in business—and the resulting demands for learning—are accelerating so dramatically. We found that there's no better stimulus to innovate, improve, and become more efficient than having to earn the right to serve customers, each and every day.
• Be flexible and opportunistic in sourcing by strategically linking and focusing on business issues, allowing customers to consistently define the value derived from the training. Clarify precisely what our customers expect from the training; negotiate a results contract; guarantee customer satisfaction.

To maintain a serious business discipline EOC will:

• Continually adapt to ongoing change in the business environment.
• Promote learning not as an ideal but as a way to fulfill specific business-driven objectives.
• Be entrepreneurial—live with risk.
• Structure training to provide exactly what is needed.
• Divide customers into segments and provide each segment appropriate forms of value.
• Document customers' expectations.
• Write results contracts specifying value to be delivered, at what price, customers' role in achieving targeted results.
• Offer service guarantees.

The Enhanced Occupations Center (EOC) is a product of a similar computer training program developed and implemented by Serena Bolton, for the University of Washington Office of Community and Business Partnerships. The program was developed for the University of Washington to provide basic computer training to the North Seattle Community area residents and Peters school's Leadership Academy.

The training was provided for four parents per session, two sessions per week for 15-20 sessions. Upon completion of the program the students will received a certificate. The sessions were made up of four core areas of Microsoft Office® training and those core areas were:

• Word Processing
• Access Database
• Publisher 98

Serena learned from the project and the community that there is a growing need for computer training that is based on the student or employer's goals and skills assessment needs. After the four-month project ended, and for a year after the program, Serena analyzed, researched, and redeveloped the program based on those needs.

The Enhanced Occupations Center differs from the University of Washington project to the following:

• Training is based on skill assessment and goals
• Outcome of the training is monitored
• Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS) Testing is offered
• Students are retained through Step-Level program
• Training is re-evaluated continuously
• Other occupational programs will be implemented in conjunction with the computer training, such as the Secretarial Program

During her year of research and studies, Serena developed her knowledge base of curriculum development and delivery, return on investment for Technology-Based Training (TBT), training management systems, development teams for creating TBTs, ensuring transfer of learning to the job, leveraging technology for human performance improvement and computer training statistics.

Now Serena was ready to bring all of the above components together, along with the communities' needs, and package them into a plan for the birth of her vision. Basing the program on the same centralized idea, Microsoft Office® Training, Serena created the Enhanced Occupations Center.

The computer training project developed for the Leadership Academy and AECC21, by Serena Bolton, has been maintained by the University of Washington Office of Community and Business Partnerships, and is taking place at the Maple Business Center in Seattle. After speaking with Martin Rawlins, Director of the Office, there is still a growing need for basic and advanced computer training. Martin has offered technical assistance and support to EOC and the assistance has been welcomed and accepted.

EOC has also been approved by the Microsoft Office User Specialist Program to operate as an Authorized Test Center. This approval gives EOC full authorization to use the Microsoft Office® logo on our printed and televised materials. Microsoft will also provide the security of having MicroShare, a technical support team, available to EOC 24-hours a day.

Company Ownership

EOC is a sole proprietorship and operated by Serena Bolton, a Certified Microsoft Office User Specialist. Serena has eleven years of hands-on computer use and training experience, and is also a Microsoft Certified Testing Administrator.

Start-up Summary

Total start-up expense (including professional fees, website, and related expenses) come to $79,454. Required start-up assets include $22,880 in short-term assets (office furniture, etc.) and $15,000 in initial cash to handle the first three months of training operations as sales play through the cash flow. The details are included in the following chart.

Company Location and Facilities

The Enhanced Occupations Center will be located at 1505 N. Fifth Street, Seattle, Washington. The suite is approximately 850 square feet and encompasses two offices, a receptionist area, and a 700-foot open training area. The suite is housed inside a secure building. There are restroom facilities and a drinking fountain located in the foyer area. The doors on the building automatically lock at 4:55 P.M. Anyone entering after that time must use a personal code.

The building is located between Marshall and Stanton roads and is near one of the state's largest employers, General Hospital. Other businesses located in the building are: Private Management, Temporary Placement Services, Pager Company, and a Credit Counselor business. The building is surrounded by restaurants, stores, etc.

EOC will offer the following training and assessment services. Each element of service will be implemented in overlapping phases.

Microsoft Office®-based computer training including the following:

• Word Processing Software
• PowerPoint Presentation Software
• Access Database/Customer Records Software
• Excel Spreadsheet/Invoicing Software
• Publisher Desktop Publishing/Graphics Software
• Outlook E-Mail/Calendar/Scheduling Software
• FrontPage Web Page Development (coming soon)
• Internet Online Technology

The Occupational Skills Assessments are for the following areas:

Office Skills Testing

• Receptionist
• Secretarial
• Customer Service

Call Center Testing

• Telemarketing
• Data Analysis

Office Management Testing

Computer literacy testing.

Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS) Certification Testing

Payment Methods

Class tuition payments must be paid to EOC in full, before the student can take a class. EOC will offer several payment options to the student such as: Visa, MasterCard, money orders, and personal checks.

Service Description

We will provide core curriculum designed to train individuals from basic computer skills to certification competencies. Students will be retained through Step-Level Based Training indicated below:

• Basic/Level 1 —consists of students who have had little or no computer training.
• Advanced/Level 2 —consists of students who have had at-home or on-the-job experience with the majority of software packages.
• Intermediate/Level 3 —consists of certification training of students in preparation for the Microsoft Office User Specialist Certification Test.
• Microsoft Office User Specialist Program—EOC is part of the MicroShare family of Authorized Test Centers (ATCs) that administer and offer assessment tests for the Microsoft Office® User Specialist (MOUS) program. About 90 percent of the Fortune 500 companies use Microsoft Office products. An ever-increasing number of individuals in these companies are looking for ways to give themselves a competitive edge to move up the career ladder.
• As an ATC, we have the opportunity to give our customers this competitive edge by helping them prove their expertise and skill in using Microsoft Office products. When passing or failing the test the student will receive a printout stating the results of the exam to take with them. If the student has passed the test, they will receive a Certification certificate in the mail 2-4 weeks later.

Microsoft Office User Specialist Certification Test

The test consists of actually taking the exam to be come a Microsoft Office User Specialist. This certification will give the student the credentials needed to prove that the student knows how to use Microsoft Office Applications efficiently and productively.

EOC believes that assessing a customer before and after a class will give us the real value of our training. EOC also will follow up 30 days after the training to see if the student actually retained what was learned and if the student was able to apply the skills in their current environment.

EOC also believes in assessing our own staff. We will conduct ongoing Skill Level Needs Assessments of our own employees across the Center, aimed at making computer training more strategic and providing computer training that has more of a business impact. We will continually seek to be effective for future student and business needs. Our key focus is to utilize our program outcomes to improve and increase our computer training effectiveness in the workplace.

EOC Company Assessment Program

EOC will provide an assessment service to local businesses as their pre-interviewing process. There will be a fee attached to this service. The assessment appointment will be by the company and they will give instructions as to our location, etc. EOC will only do business transactions with the company.

Training Schedule

The typical computer training class will run 2 hours, twice a week, for four weeks or a total of 16 hours of training. Our capacity for weekly classes, for one month, would be a total of 72 students.

Our workshops are one day, eight-hour classes. These classes are geared towards the individual wanting to brush up or learn a skill quickly without the long-term commitment.

The computer training classes will be scheduled as listed below. The specific subject of the class won't be established until we receive customer response to advertising and promotions.

Tentative Class Schedule

Competitive Comparison

EOC differs from the traditional learning environments where the classes are large and sometimes overwhelming to new students. EOC believes that by having smaller classes (no more than 8 students) the trainer can be more attentive to the majority of the students' needs. We focus on quality training, not quantity. Our fees are justified by the specialization of our personalized services.

Sales Literature

Once we learn the immediate needs of our typical customer, we can create our marketing literature to address these problems and our solutions to them, such as:

Are you being turned down for jobs because you don't know Windows, Microsoft Word, or PowerPoint? If so, call the Enhanced Occupations Center at 643-1000 for personalized hands-on training in the most popular software packages.

EOC will capitalize on the 80-20 rule and target low-maintenance customers that bring us the most revenues for the least effort. According to W.E.B. Business Consultants, 80 percent of computer training revenues come from 20 percent of our customers. We will use a program for tracking customers, sales, and our time. And then we will focus our efforts on the best 20 percent of our customers. We will target these people first and give them preferred status. EOC will then market our services to everyone else. We will "weed out" the customers that want to nickel and dime EOC, and make us rework a project over and over while they keep changing their minds about what they want.

EOC's sales literature includes:

• Business Cards
• Newsletters
• Introductory Letters
• Promotional tote bags, etc.
• CompuFax Sheet
• Web Presence

Enhanced Occupations Center will maintain the latest Windows® capabilities including:

• Complete e-mail facilities on the Internet, for working with students directly through e-mail delivery of schedules and information.
• Complete presentation facilities for preparation and delivery of multimedia presentations on Windows machines, in formats that include on-disk presentation, live presentation, or video presentation.
• Complete desktop publishing facilities for delivery of regular advertising and promotional materials.

Future Services

We will be adding these products and services in the near future:

Secretarial Training Classes —The student will learn about daily routines, telephone usage, mail services and shipping, travel arrangements, keeping accurate records, office machines, telecommunications equipment, computer systems, database management systems, computer communications, computerized spreadsheets software, data security, keyboarding skills, word processing, computer terms, writing business letters, and other written communications, forms of address, legal documents and terms, correct English usage, spelling, pronunciation, punctuation, numerals, bookkeeping and accounting, business and personal taxes, banking, special business and financial information for the small business secretary, and career advancement. Retail Self-paced Learning manuals —The student will be able to order or purchase outright, computer workbooks to use as added supplements. Senior Citizens Classes —Seniors will be picked up at their location and brought to the center for two hours to learn the basics of using a computer. These students will not be able to keep materials. This service will be at a senior discounted rate. Web Page Design Classes —The student will learn the basics of how to design a web page. This class will be a 2-8 hour class and will have a fee of $135 tuition and $20 for the book. Computer Question/Help desk —This service will only be available to current students who have computer questions related or not related to the subject they are currently studying.

The U.S. Census Bureau County Population report from 1998 states that the 14 most common purposes of the computer being used at home are word processing, calendar/scheduling, e-mail, bookkeeping, customer records, inventory control, invoicing, sales/marketing, desktop publishing, graphics and design, analysis, programming, spreadsheets and databases. The number one main purpose for computer use is word processing. The number one software used for these applications is Microsoft Word.

EOC will be focusing on new computer users and employed computer users that need to gain skills or update current skills. Our most important group of potential customers are those employed with high-technology businesses. These are entry-level employees or managers. We realize businesses do not want to waste their time or risk their money with training organizations that are fast paced with low skills retention outcomes.

Market Segmentation

The U.S. Census Bureau County Population report from 1998 states that there are approximately 436,084 people living in King County. As of the fall of 1989, nearly 1 in 3 persons age 3 and above will have used a computer. Overall about 1 in 6 adults has a home computer. More than 1 in 3 adults uses a computer at work. Women use computers 43 percent more than men. Persons in managerial and professional positions (56 percent) and technical and administrative positions (55 percent) were most likely to use computers.

Target Market Strategy

EOC will focus on the following segments. These segments are more interesting than other groups because they have the specific computer training needs EOC intends to meet.

• Microsoft Training for Fortune 500 company employees.
• Training real estate agents on realty software and basic Windows and Microsoft Office software.
• Training real estate agents on basic desktop publishing skills—scanning color photos, creating flyers for property, etc.
• Training physicians in specific specialties to use their patient management software.
• Training people on how to get the most from the Internet.
• raining business people on how to keep up with their websites, from e-mail management to web page creation.
• Training office personnel on how to use Microsoft Office or other office packages.
• Training the first-time computer owner on how to use their home PC.
• Setting up newsletter templates and teaching businesses how to keep up with the in- house or company newsletter.
• Training sales managers on how to use database software to track their sales and marketing functions.
• Training individuals who are looking for better employment on how to use the latest software packages.

These strategies are most effective when put into a formula in the following order:

• Identifying the symptoms
• Diagnosis of the problem
• Follow-up/Outcome Management

Additional Target Marketing Strategies

Our slogan "Training with a personal touch" emphasizes one of our major benefits and we will use this slogan throughout our literature, advertising, and graphics.

The following functions will be assigned to our marketing tools:

• Get name recognition
• Obtain leads
• Turn qualified prospect into a customer
• Ensure customer loyalty
• Stimulate training Center traffic
• Sell service directly
• Introduce new service
• Sell a special service package

The following are low cost/no cost marketing methods:

• Form relationships with noncompeting businesses.
• Get to know other computer professionals.
• Combine services in virtual corporations to provide turnkey solutions to clients.
• Do cooperative mailings with other noncompeting professionals.
• Volunteer to speak in clubs, associations, workshops, or seminars on our specialty.
• Periodically ask customers for referrals.
• Join a barter exchange.
• Produce a periodic newsletter.
• Write articles for local newspapers or upload them to Internet bulletin boards.
• Join Internet newsgroups and mail lists.
• Submit press releases.

The following are for fee marketing methods:

• Join associations
• Conduct seminars
• Conduct contests
• Offer freebees

EOC has two marketing formulas in place and they are:

• Get a list of companies together that we think may need our services (such as new businesses from the County Clerk's office or the Seattle Journal ).
• Call these people and find out the contact person and if they need our services.
• Mail a letter, brochure, and card to the interested companies.
• Follow-up with another call to the contact person.
• Continue to call these people periodically.
• Keep good records of companies and contact logs.
• Ask them if they would like a FREE subscription to our computer newsletter that we will fax them periodically.
• Fax the newsletter to those who are interested, and include mail enrollment information as well. Mail information to those people who don't want newsletters but are still interested in our services.
• Follow-up in a week to see what they thought and if we can help them with anything.
• Continue to send our fax newsletter regularly.
• Keep good records of contacts and logs.

Other Strategies:

• Join America's Learning Exchange resource database that will promote our training to employers, workers, and life-long learners via the Internet.
• Create alliances with grassroots organizations and staffing organizations.
• Assist in job placement upon completion of Certification testing.
• Create website for schedule information, applications, and book purchasing.
• Register with government programs for SBA certification and other government procurement opportunities.
• Network amongst family and friends for "word of mouth" opportunities to gather referrals.
• Contact students from previous classes.

Market Needs

Our target market is very dependent on reliable information technology. They use the computers for a complete range of functions, beginning with core administration information such as accounting, shipping, and inventory. They also use computers for communications within the business and outside the business, and for personal productivity. The businesses are not, however, large enough to have dedicated computer training personnel such as the MIS departments in large businesses. Ideally, they come to us for a long-term alliance, looking for reliable training service and support to substitute for the lack of their in-house trainer. These are not businesses that want to shop for rock-bottom prices. They want to have reliable providers of training expertise.

Market Trends

One important trend is that we live in an age where one-stop shopping is the preferred purchasing method. All you need to do is head down to your local Wal-Mart Supercenter for a 31-inch television, diapers, and a gallon of milk, while you simultaneously let them rotate your tires and have your hair done.

Now the technical professional has a similar resource. With the growing popularity of the Microsoft Office User Specialist Certification and use of Microsoft Office products, EOC is offering students the "one-stop-shop computer training and certification" approach. A student will no longer have to go from one seminar to another, or from one instructor's methods to another. At EOC students can begin at the basic level of instruction and follow through all the way to certification, without going through the added stress of familiarizing themselves all over again.

Market Growth and Industry

According to the America's Career Infonet Report, the top three fastest growing occupations in Washington are:

• Computer Engineers—102 percent increase forecast between 1994 and 2005.
• Systems analysts, electronic data processing—98 percent increase between 1994 and 2005.
• Electronic pagination system operators—80 percent increase between 1994 and 2005.

Listed below are the occupations with the largest number of projected openings in Washington during the 1994-2005 time period.

• General Office Clerks
• Clerical and administrative support workers
• Receptionists and information clerks
• Systems analysts, electronic data processing

All of the above occupations will require computer knowledge or computer training from their candidates.

By the year 2002, almost every household will have a computer and almost all businesses will be utilizing a computer for one reason or another. Computer training will no longer be a choice—it will be a requirement. EOC will be in place and established, already serving the training needs of employment candidates and businesses.

Among industries, computer use was most common in finance, insurance, and real estate, where 2 in 3 workers used them. According to Training Magazine 's 1999 Industry Report in 1999, training budgets crept up to $62.5 billion. Of that sum, $15 billion will go to outside providers of training products and services. Of all formal training 33 percent will be devoted to teaching computer skills. Of all computer-skills training, 74 percent of the training will be delivered in a classroom by a live instructor.

Competition and Buying Patterns

EOC's main competitors could be considered local colleges, universities, and continuing education providers, but in reality they are not.

In a sense, these "competitors" actually welcome computer training companies who cater to the smaller class sizes and novice computer users. It gives them the opportunity to cut back on waiting lists and also expedite their schedules, increasing the quantity and decreasing the quality. Computer Training companies rank second in selected training sources organizations choose to utilize.

EOC has heard time and time again, from students who have withdrawn from educational institutions because the classes are "too large and move too quickly through the materials." These students want and need computer training classes that are small and Skill Level Based oriented. The students also want improved teaching methods outside the traditional lecture learning style. They seek retention of skills learned. They want hands-on learning and they want to be able to go home or to work and begin using their new skills right away. Here are some other reasons that people will want to come to EOC for training:

• They have specific projects they want to create and their training will be learning- specific.
• They only need to learn a few things about a program and do not need a full course.
• Their schedule varies and they need a flexible training schedule.
• They are in a hurry. They do not have time to fit in a class at the local university or college. They want to be trained now!
• They are nervous in large groups or formal education facilities and want a more relaxed learning environment such as our Center.
• They feel like they are slow learners and would be more comfortable in a Center environment.

According to the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), "leading edge companies are responding to the need of skilled employees by providing more training (usually outsourced) because it makes sense from both a business standpoint and from a recruitment standpoint," said Laurie Bassi, ASTD Vice President of Research.

The huge need for skilled employees is being driven by technology and companies are scrambling to meet the technological requirements of their business.

The 1999 State of Industry report found that most firms increased the amount of money they spent on employees by about $150 per employee from 1996 to 1997, but that the leading edge firms surveyed doubled that with an average increase of $300 per employee. Typical total expenditures for training grew from $1.4 million in 1996 to $2 million in 1997 for average firms, and leading edge firms increased spending from $3.4 million to $4.1 million in the same period. Projected expenditures for 1998 show that the gap between the average firm and leading edge firms will continue to widen, with industry average increasing to $2.1 million while leading edge firms are projected to spend $4.7 million on training.

ASTD has found that companies that invest the most in workplace learning find higher net sales per employee, higher gross profits per employee, and a higher ratio in market-to-book values, compared with companies who invest less in workplace learning.

The information technology and transportation/public utility sectors spent the most on training ($3.9 million and $3.8 million respectively) and these sectors also led in terms of money spent per employee on training ($1,004 per employee and $943 per employee respectively).

Outsourcing of training grew by 20 percent, from $461,000 per firm in 1996 to $513,000 in 1997, and was predicted to grow to $522,000 in 1998.

In 1998 job-specific technical skills (including the use of technology) were the most frequent kinds of training delivered (17%), followed by management and supervisor training (12%), computer literacy and applications training (12%). Bringing up the rear was executive development (4%) and basic skills (2%), all which were up from 1996.

The use of learning technologies in training was on the rise—with an increase of 50 percent— but was still relatively low overall.

After carefully researching the computer training market, it has been discovered that some students are more concerned with how you train than with what you are training, even though the two concepts are equally important. EOC focuses on customer care.

The nearest Microsoft Office User Specialist testing center is in Redmond. EOC will be the first in MOUS Training Center to make its presence in Seattle. This groundbreaking opportunity gives EOC time to establish and maintain ongoing relationships with area businesses and students to gain their loyalty should another center open in Seattle. The key element in purchase decisions made at the EOC client level is trust in the professional reputation and reliability of the training center.

We develop marketing materials based on the symptoms of our customers and then we coordinate those materials to focus on solving the typical customer's symptoms. We will then obtain lists of people that fit our typical customer's characteristics.

Our business strategy is to develop a list of people that would most likely exhibit the "symptoms" we have determined our typical customer would have. Once we have our list we will consistently approach them about our services.

One way of approaching our prospects would be the Letter-Series Method. The Letter-Series Method consists of sending our prospects a series of four different professionally written letters (1 per week) before we ever call them. The letters would be personal, meaning the letter would state "Dear Mr. Smith" instead of "Dear Prospective Customer." By sending customers four letters we will establish EOC in their minds as a professional, persistent business entity.

The letters will be written in advance. They will cover a different topic each time. They will contain computer hints or a copy of our newsletter. We won't try to push or sell in these letters. By the fourth letter, they will know that we intend to call them. We will make sure we do call them when we say we will.

Here is the possible structure for our four letters:

Introduce ourselves and our philosophy. Build trust. Don't try to sell in this letter. Go over our attitudes, specialty, history, qualifications, and philosophy. It will be like a resume to introduce EOC.

Introduce our company.

Letter three

Cover a topic we feel may interest the prospect based on our knowledge of their "symptoms" and characteristics.

Letter four

Cover another topic we feel may interest them and let them know we will be calling on a specific day/time.

We will then create reminder and follow-up letters as well. These letters will include:

• Appointment reminder
• Thank you for the appointment
• Broken appointment/no show—will call back later
• Thank you for your business
• Thank you for your referral

EOC will make it a point to sign and hand-address our envelopes. We believe this will significantly increase the probability of our letters being opened. And an individually signed letter is much more personal.

On the fifth week, we will call to make an appointment to come in and talk with the prospect. We will have a written telephone script before we start calling.

A Harvard Business School study indicates that it "takes five contacts from an unknown company to an individual before he or she will feel comfortable enough to do business with the company." We will start with 350 or more prospects. We won't mail them all at once. We will stagger the mailing so that we will be able to contact them personally after they have received their fourth letter. This will be our initial implementation of the business, along with our current waiting list of students.

That list includes:

Once our students respond to our advertisements or referrals, they will enter into our pre- registration process. Once they have submitted their registration form/agreement letter and payment, they will be invited to the orientation and skill assessment. After they have been assessed they will be placed in a basic beginner's, advanced, or intermediate class— whichever meets their training needs.

After students complete their level they will be assessed and an outcome report will be written. Each student will be evaluated after each level they pass. The student will then again be placed. Once the student has completed all of the levels, or does not want to go any further, they will have a closing assessment. Each student will receive technical support for 30 days after which they will be contacted and a follow-up report will be done on the skills they have learned and the skills they use.

Competitive Edge

We will start with a critical competitive edge: there is no local competitor we know of that offers the MOUS Certification testing, small retention based classes, or individual student attention. Most of the local training facilities are not flexible to students' needs. Our positioning on this point is very hard to match, but only if we maintain this focus in our strategy, marketing, business development, and fulfillment. We should be aware that the tendency to dilute this personal touch, with larger classes that require longer student commitment, could weaken the importance of our competitive edge.

Marketing Strategy

Marketing in a high-end computer training business depends on recognition for expertise. It starts with our known contacts in positions to recommend us, and continues with long-term efforts to develop recognition in professional forums.

We will develop and maintain a database of people in the right positions. It starts with contacts we bring in as we start the business. From there we add enquiries and participants in forums and seminars, and newsletter subscribers. We use the database to make regular contact with mailings for additional forums and seminars.

Pricing Strategy

Seattle Community College's Continuing Education offers similar courses to EOC. Seattle prices its computer classes at $119 for 5-8 hours of training and $20 for the book. We will follow suit but market our classes at $125 for the class and $20 for the book. We can ask for more because our classes are smaller and we are able to give more individualized attention to our students. We also are able to give discounts on some of our manuals because we manufacture them ourselves.

The going rate for private training is between $25-$60 per hour depending on what is being taught. For businesses the rate is between $40-45 per hour for on-site training of 1-2 students, with a minimum of a two-hour visit. If people are going to have a large group trained at their location, we would charge a per person rate instead of an hourly one. For an 8-hour course, we would charge $300 for the first two students, and $110 for each additional student. Our fees will be set to cover a reference book, training, and 60 days of follow-up phone support.

For the periodic Computer Upgrading workshops, a two-hour class, the fee will be $49 per person, and includes a copy of "How to buy the right computer."

For the periodic Basic Four workshops, a one-day or eight-hour class, the fee will be $179 per person, and includes a workbook, copies of "How to buy the right computer" and "The Beginner's Inspirational Guide to Computer Tips and Shortcuts," and a light lunch.

Promotion Strategy

The biggest mistake that computer-based business owners make is using a shotgun versus a laser beam approach to their business. Most of us in the computer industry have a tendency to be good at many different computer tasks. We might be good at desktop publishing, recommending software, customizing software, and doing basic PC repair. We might think that because we are good at all of these things we should do them all. We will have a broader customer base. We can service more people and thus should make more money.

This seems like the logical conclusion, but in reality it does not work. We spread ourselves to thin. At EOC we believe the more specific you get about what you do and who you do it for, the easier our service is to sell. We are working with a laser beam approach when we focus in this way. A laser beam is concentrated and works in a powerful way. We believe in focusing on one aspect of the computer industry for a specific type of client. In doing this we become three things: 1) a specialist, 2) known as an expert in our field, 3) all our marketing efforts fall into place, 4) we minimize, if not eliminate, much of our competition.

Because we do not want to grow too fast, our main form of promotional strategy in the beginning will be word of mouth and referrals.

Distribution Strategy

EOC's delivery method will have a large bearing on how we develop our program, so we have given this process up-front consideration. We have chosen to use the learning center method to deliver our training.

The training distribution will begin with first completing a needs assessment on the customer. Once the customer has been assessed they will be placed in a class that meets their assessment needs. Once the customer completes the class, they will again be assessed and go through an outcome procedure. The customer then has the choice of going up to the next level. If a customer chooses to dropout, they can return and be tested and placed again.

The following distribution tools will be used to aid in our classroom delivery:

• Printed material
• Instructor-led classroom presentation
• Professional Speakers
• Tours/Field Trips

Our goal, in the near future, is to implement a Distributed Learning Framework (DLF). A webenabled DLF can be accessed by users in a consistent and convenient manner from any location on the Internet. The DLF would manage other application data such as:

• Registration
• Learners Profiles
• Progress and Performance data
• Discussion Forums

The benefits of this approach would be:

• Accessibility
• Flexibility
• Extensibility
• Reusability
• Interoperability

In the future, learning frameworks will evolve to embrace new technologies such as electronic commerce and knowledge management best practices to solve business issues such as skill gaps, corporate virtual campuses, career development, and help desks. Distributed learning frameworks also will link to enterprise resource planning, human resources, and financial systems.

Training Strategy

EOC will use the accelerated-learning theory called the multiple intelligences theory. This theory was developed by the Harvard psychologist Howard Gardner and his team of researchers at the Graduate School of Education. What Gardner and his team put forth is the fact that there is no single way in which everyone thinks and learns. Instead, there are many forms of intelligence, many ways by which people learn, understand, think, problem-solve, and relate to the world. Gardner proposed a system of eight distinct intelligences. EOC will incorporate activities into our computer training program that exercises all eight of these intelligences.

In brief, here are Gardner's eight multiple intelligences:

• Verbal-linguistic—(speaking, reading, writing). This intelligence shows up in writers, storytellers, lawyers, politicians, and television talk-show hosts. EOC training incorporation will include: group discussions.
• Logical-mathematical—(scientific reasoning). Obvious possessors are scientists, statisticians, and computer programmers. EOC training incorporation will include: calculations and other math operations.
• Visual-spatial—(visualizing through lines, shape, volume, etc.). Think of architects, graphic designers, painters, decorators, film directors, chess players, engineers, and sculptors are examples of this type of brilliance. EOC training incorporation will include: charts, graphs, and PowerPoint presentations.
• Bodily-kinesthetic—(control and interpretation of muscular or physical sensations). Geniuses here may be actors, athletes, dancers, physical therapists, mechanics, carpenters, jewelers, and craftspeople. EOC training incorporation will include: Hands-on learning and stretching breaks.
• Musical-rhythmic—(recognize and use rhythmic and tonal patterns). Musicians, disc jockeys, and studio engineers and those who learn best when music is playing. EOC training incorporation will include: Using soft music in the background.
• Interpersonal—(ability to work cooperatively with others). This form of intelligence is highly developed in teachers, therapists, managers, salespeople, public relations, and religious leaders. EOC training incorporation will include: paired sharing, interactive games and exercises, group and peer teaching.
• Intrapersonal—(self-smart). This intelligence shows up in theologians, entrepreneurs, philosophers, and therapists. EOC training incorporation will include: self-esteem activities, self-paced learning, and individualized instruction.
• Naturalistic—(nature-smart). This intelligence likes animals and organic systems better than people. EOC training incorporation will include: Field trips and time outdoors.

Instruction Method

All training programs have four major ingredients: information, performance outcomes, instructional methods, and instructional media. EOC will carefully account for and include each of these ingredients in our instructional methods.

All courses will include information to be trained. Course information can be classified as one of five types: facts, concepts, processes, procedures, and principles. The information will be decided by both looking at the knowledge and skill requirements of the job and the knowledge and skill level of the intended audience. Subtracting the knowledge and skills of the intended audience from those of the job, EOC will be able to derive final course content.

EOC's performance outcome will be a clearly defined statement of what the learners will be doing when they have achieved the purpose of the course or lesson. The performance outcomes will be mirrored with what must be done on the job. They are then written in the form of learning objectives. For each of our lessons we have at least one major learning objective and many will include supporting objectives as well.

Instructional methods are two types: informational displays and practice exercises with feedback. EOC will mainly use the practice exercise with feedback method.

Our instructional methods will be delivered through a mix of media that include: instructor, computer, workbook, overhead transparencies, flipchart, and perhaps a video.

EOC is obliged to offer training that works in today's society. While the modern employees are the best-educated in history, they are still required to absorb tremendous amounts of information and apply vast amounts of knowledge. EOC will use every theory, tool, and technique that will help employees learn while unleashing every available type of intelligence, gift, and aspect of humanity at their disposal.

Marketing Programs

The letters, brochures, business cards, flyers, and other literature will act as our representative. Here are some of our marketing programs and strategies:

Using sales letter strategies such as:

• Knowing our target audience—Know our objective or specific purpose of our letter.
• Being objective—Thinking like the reader.
• Using catchy salutation—Like "Here's some timely information for Ms. Wilson."
• Get to the point—Try and keep the letter short. One or two paragraphs.
• Vary the length of our paragraphs—A couple of 3-4 line paragraphs followed by a oneliner ads impact.
• Tell the reader what we want them to do next—Such as "I will call you on Thursday morning to iron out the details."
• Provide the facts—Give enough facts to our customer for them to make a decision.
• Address the reader's primary concern—"What is in it for me?"
• Add a P.S.—This is the second most read part of the letter. The first is the first paragraph or headline.
• Keep it short—No longer than one page.
• Talk to them friendly one-on-one—Use the word "you."
• Avoid jargon—Be clear and concise.
• Hand sign all of our letters.

Designing good ad copy to reach our customers:

• Choose the proper publication
• Have a goal for our advertisement
• Involve the audience
• Inform the buyer
• Headline and illustrations grab attention
• Give them something
• Always be specific
• Make our offer a good one
• Be creative in our media choices such as unusual avenues like fax newsletters, mall kiosks, fax-on-demand, publicity stunts, online marketing, anything unusual to reach our target market
• Small, classified ads
• Track our results
• Keep all our customers/prospects in a database and stay in touch with them regularly
• Gradually increase the size of our ad and track the results
• Advertise regularly and consistently
• Evaluate our efforts

Customer loyalty is much more important to EOC than customer satisfaction. We will serve our customers so well they will brag about EOC to others. This will keep them loyal and also provides a continual flow of customers.

Self-Evaluation Program

We will maintain our customers' happiness by utilizing our Self-Evaluation Program in which we will continually ask ourselves these following questions:

• Is EOC's service the best it can be?
• Is the appearance of our trainers, business surroundings, and product packaging professional?
• Can we clearly describe our business in 25 words or less? Can our customers describe our business in 25 words or less?
• Do our customers know about all of our products and services?
• Do we have a well-developed marketing plan that we follow on a consistent basis?
• What if our marketing plans work? Will we be able to handle the increased volume of sales without harming our customers or the quality of our work product?
• Do we treat others with honesty and respect at all times?

EOC will continue to listen to ours customers and stay in regular contact with our customers by offering:

• Workshops and seminars.
• Private sales or classes.
• Giving them informative newsletters, articles, or tip sheets that can help them in their businesses, such as a computer tips and tricks newsletter.

EOC also will have a program in place for dropping customers who meet the following criteria:

• They complain about our prices and are always trying to get us to cut our rates.
• They complain about our competitors.
• Clients who miss appointments.
• Clients who can't make up their mind.
• Clients who hover over us while we work.
• Clients who owe us money or keep saying they'll pay us "when their funding comes in."

Sales Strategy

EOC's sales strategy is to get people to talk about themselves—their wants, desires, needs, and fears. Then use the information to help make a sale. Our sales goal is to remember why people buy.

The majority of people buy on emotion and justify their decision with facts and reason. They may buy for power, prestige, security, happiness, or freedom. EOC's service will appeal to these basic emotional needs first. After the prospect decides to buy our service for an emotional reason, they will be given facts by EOC to back up their decision.

EOC will establish trust and rapport with all of our prospective customers. We also will be prepared or anticipate objections. With those objections, we will make a list, learn from them and then come up with the answers to them. EOC will review the list of objections and possible solutions frequently.

EOC will have quantitative, reasonable sales goals by asking ourselves the following questions:

• What is our net profits per sale?
• What was our business activity over the last 12 months?
• How did last year's activity compare to the year before? Did you show an increase or decrease in sales? By what percent?
• What is the lifetime value of a customer? How much will our average customer buy over the months or years that they stay with us?
• How much of this is profit? What is the net profit/customer over the life of the customer?

We will also research our past and decide what is working and what is not. Based on our past performance we will decide on a goal that is attainable. We will then work backwards from our goal to decide what we will have to do to reach it.

EOC sales concentration will also be focused on reversing the risk from our customers to our Center by offering guaranteed learning. If at the end of a course students don't feel like they have learned what was covered in class, we will work with them at no additional charge until they are comfortable with the material.

EOC believes that being in the right place at the right time is 50 percent of obtaining a successful sale. Product knowledge is 25 percent and the last 25 percent is our human relations skills. Being very knowledgeable and extremely helpful are the ingredients to a successful sale.

Listed are some valuable secrets we have learned:

• Be out there—Be in as many places as possible. Look as big as we possibly can.
• Be free with our knowledge—Give prospects a "taste" of what we know without expectations of reimbursement.
• Look for long-term alliances in every situation—Don't be satisfied with just one sale. Learn from experiences and successes of others. Continually look for ways we can ride the coattails of others' successes.
• Be helpful and friendly—Being free with our knowledge, without an invoice, gets people "hooked" on our organization.
• People do business with people, not with companies.
• Ask customers why they choose EOC—Learn what we did right and repeat it.

Sometimes having too many customers can be bad for business. Raising rates through a letter can serve three purposes:

• It helps to get rid of deadwood customers. They don't call anymore because they can't afford the rates.
• The trainer can work less and earn more.
• It is a great opportunity to reiterate all of our services.

Finally, it is our goal to deliver more than what we promise and never build up hopes.

Sales Forecast

The peaks and valleys for this business in the U.S. are from about September 6 through November 22. For some reason people think "school" in the fall, and they take more classes. Two of our worst times are from November 22 through January 7 and the month of March. Obviously, the holidays are getting in the way from November 22 through January 7. People are too busy with taxes in March, but it will pick up in April and May as people file their tax returns.

It's during our "valley" periods that we will concentrate on a saturation of workshops and seminars, where no long-term commitment is required of the customer. We will also do holiday specials. For everyone who has inquired about our classes during the year, we will do a mailing around November 5 and offer them a really good deal on training during our "valley" period.

Strategic Alliances

Living and volunteering in the Seattle community for the past 34 years has given computer trainer Serena Bolton an opportunity to build many business alliances within the King County area. Those alliances include:

University of Washington—Office of Business and Community Partnerships Stephens Capital Development Seattle Board of Education Seattle Police Department Employment Opportunities Unlimited Jason's Staffing General Hospital Generation Learning Solutions TechTool Publishers Microsoft /MicroShare Testing Senior Citizens Centers Webber Real Estate Dr. Waylon Nestle, D.S.S. UAW 451

Ballinger Center Career Pathways

Other alliances will be created through public relations programs.

Turning Points

Seattle, Washington is at a business industry turning point. With Boeing being phased out as the number one employer, people are scrambling to adjust their skills. Those employees that have been laid off or bought out are finding the world outside is not what it used to be before they entered Boeing. Those employees are now finding their skills to be outdated or unusable in the workforce today.

They lack the computer skills needed to become employable once again. They are also finding that more and more certifications are now being required criteria for employment.

EOC is strategically positioning itself to be in place for these workers and others that are in need of basic computer training. EOC is also positioning itself to meet the needs of employers who are requesting advanced training and certifications. EOC will be the gap filler between the employer and the employee.

EOC knows that no business is without frustrations and disappointments. Yet, we strive to know what to expect in advance, so we are better prepared to deal with the built-in frustrations of this business. We expect a certain amount of "no shows." This is why we require payment up front as a guarantee of attendance. We know that about 1 out of every 5 people who sign up could possibly back out due to sickness, emergencies, and sometimes people just change their mind. In this case we make sure we do not spend our money before it has cleared.

Personnel Plan

EOC will consist of three employees. Serena Bolton will participate full-time in the business as Director and Computer Instructor. The other three positions are currently vacant and will be filled as needed. Listed below are the job descriptions.

• Director and Computer Instructor, Serena Bolton, will maintain credentials needed to provide the most efficient and thorough computer training statewide. She will also be in charge of upgrading the skills of her staff.
• Receptionist/Secretary, Vacant, will handle all incoming calls and walk-ins, mail, correspondence, data entry, filing, ordering of supplies, scheduling, and play a supportive role to the Director. Candidate will also be required to take EOC classes and become certified.
• Assistant Trainer, Vacant, will be in charge of helping in the computer lab during class sessions, assist with development of computer training manuals, provide training in absence of Director, maintain maintenance of computer equipment, and play a supportive role to the Director. Candidate will be required to become MOUS certified within 60 days.
• Van Driver, Vacant, will be in charge of picking up seniors and dropping them off in a safe and courteous manner. Will be required to take EOC classes.

The projected salaries for each of these positions is hourly at $8.00 with no benefits at this time.

We want to finance growth mainly through cash flow. We recognize that this means we will have to grow more slowly.

The most important factor in our case is sales. We will develop a permanent system with ongoing marketing and sales development.

We are also assuming an initial short-term loan of $71,500 which includes start-up capital of $15,000.

Important Assumptions

Our financial plan depends on important assumptions, most of which are shown in the following table as annual assumptions.

Some of the more important underlying assumptions are:

• We assume a strong economy, without major recession.
• We assume, of course, that there are no unforseen changes in technology to make the use of computers and the need of computer training obsolete.

Break-even Analysis

Our monthly units break-even is 72 students. The monthly sales break-even is $10,403. Our average per-unit revenue is $145 per class and our estimated average fixed cost is $10,396 per month.

Projected Profit and Loss

Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table, with sales increasing more than 30 percent. We show a break-even profit the first year. We prefer to project conservatively so that we make sure we have enough cash.

The detailed monthly projections are included in appendices.

Projected Cash Flow

The following cash flow projections show the annual amounts only. Cash flow projections are critical to our success. Reflected in this chart are the only remaining months of 2000. The annual cash flow figures are included here and the more important detailed monthly numbers are included in the appendices.

Projected Balance Sheet

The balance sheet in the following table shows sufficient growth of net worth, and a sufficiently healthy financial position. The monthly estimates are included in the appendices.

Business Ratios

The following table shows the projected ratios. We expect to maintain healthy ratios for profitability, risk, and return.

This page left intentionally blank to accommodate tabular matter following.

General Assumptions

Profit and Loss (Income Statement)

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Training structure: examples and downloadable template, share this article.

Think of a training structure as the blueprint for your B2B training business. It’s like an architect drawing up plans for a home – it outlines what materials are needed, where to place them, and how it all comes together.

This article will explore comprehensive training structure examples and templates for B2B training businesses to help you create the perfect program to generate revenue and scale operations. 

We’ll look at how to create an effective learning plan, design the curriculum, select the best delivery methods, and present it in a way that resonates with your audience. 

Skip ahead: 

Understanding the Basics of Training Structure

Sequential training structure, modular training structure, layered training structure, blended training structure, spiral training structure, training structure templates, best practices for implementing training structure, optimizing online training structure, additional training structure examples and templates, frequently asked questions, significance of a well-structured training program.

Creating a comprehensive training structure for your B2B training business can be daunting. However, understanding the importance of such an undertaking is necessary to ensure success. 

A well-structured training program can help you scale and increase revenue in ways that few other strategies can provide. At its core, a  well-structured training program allows you to plan better and manage resources to maximize profits while delivering quality services. 

This helps you create a bigger return on the time, energy, and money invested in your business.

Overview of Training Structure Examples and Templates

When designing your online course, there are many training structure examples and templates to consider. The proper training structure can significantly impact your B2B training business’s success. 

You have many training options to choose from for your online course, such as self-paced, blended, modular or spiral instruction. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages depending on the type of content being taught and the objectives that need to be met. 

Additionally, templates provide an easy way to create a consistent style throughout your course materials without needing extra effort from you or your team. 

Before diving into examples or templates for your business’s training structure, understanding the basics of this concept is essential.

Defining Training Structure and its Core Elements

A training structure is an organizational framework for your online courses that helps ensure each product functions as intended to reach its goals. Core elements of a training structure include: 

• Defining the learning objectives and outcomes of each particular course or lesson. 
• Establishing the topics and content presented in each lesson. 
• Crafting assessments and quizzes to measure student comprehension. 
• Setting up any additional resources, such as video content, audio recordings, or printable worksheets needed for the course. 
• Integrating feedback mechanisms so students can ask questions or provide comments throughout their journey. 
• Collecting data such as learner engagement and completion rates to determine the effectiveness of your program. 

Incorporating these features in a well-defined training structure can help maximize return on investment while building a loyal customer base through educational content.

Key Considerations for B2B Training Programs

There are several factors to consider when structuring your B2B training programs, some of which are necessary to differentiate them from B2C training programs and courses , including:

• Utilizing a scalable platform that can accommodate larger audiences. 
• Automating processes to streamline the delivery of content.
• Incorporating interactive elements such as quizzes, polls, and case studies.
• Offering personalized coaching or mentorship opportunities. 
• Establishing marketing tactics to attract potential clients. 
• Crafting customer success stories to demonstrate the ROI of training programs. 
• Creating dynamic pricing models based on student needs. 
• Providing tailored material based on industry or company size.

Now that we know the basics let’s examine different training structure examples and templates you can use to create your next educational product.

Explanation and Benefits

This incremental process is an effective way to organize your business’s training program. It involves creating a series of courses that build on each other and provide a logical progression for learners. Doing so creates a clear path or “ sequence ” from novice trainees to advanced experts while helping them make the most of their learning journey. 

The benefits of using this kind of structure include: 

• Encourages learner engagement : When customers can see progress and understand how far they have come, it boosts motivation and keeps them engaged in their learning journey. 
• Easier onboarding process : Setting steps makes it easier for new trainees to understand what to do and how far they have left. 
• More effective training : Structured courses make learning more efficient, as learners can focus on specific topics or skills without feeling overwhelmed by too much information. 
• Improved customer satisfaction : Customers’ satisfaction levels increase as they become more knowledgeable about your product or service.

Step-by-Step Implementation Guide

• Identify the core topics of your course and the desired learning outcomes for each.
• Organize these topics into a logical sequence that builds on previous knowledge and facilitates mastery of skills as learners progress through the course content. 
• Create individual modules based on these topics, ensuring they are concise yet comprehensive in their subject coverage. 
• Develop activities within each module to reinforce key concepts and provide opportunities for learners to practice newly acquired skills interactively.  
• Include quizzes or assessments throughout the course to assess learner progress toward mastery of all objectives. 
• Add a final assessment to the course that requires learners to demonstrate mastery of all topics and objectives. 
• Provide support materials, such as worksheets or reference documents, for learners who need additional guidance throughout their learning journey.

Case Study: Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)

Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) has successfully utilized Thinkific’s online training resources to boost revenue and reach over 7 million students across 170 countries. Co-founded by Tim Vipond, CFI offers comprehensive financial analyst programs for individuals and renowned institutions like Deloitte, HSBC, and Amazon.

Transitioning from in-person classes to online courses with Thinkific Plus, CFI initially launched with a bundle of 10 courses. This allowed them to gather feedback and expand their offerings continuously. 

Now providing over 140+ courses through the Thinkific Plus platform, CFI continues to experience strong yearly growth in both student enrollments and revenue generation while reinvesting earnings back into course improvements and expansion efforts.

A modular training structure organizes and delivers training that allows you to mix and match different elements. It’s helpful for businesses looking to create custom learning experiences that meet their customers’ needs. 

The advantages of this approach include: 

• Flexibility : You can tailor your courses according to customer preferences. 
• Streamlined delivery : It makes managing complex teaching scenarios with multiple instructors, locations, and topics easier. 
• Cost savings . Since each module can be reused in different contexts, companies save time and money by not having to develop entirely new courses each time. 
• Increased engagement : Learners can explore topics in more depth since modules are organized into smaller, digestible chunks.
• Define your goals : Identify the objectives of your training program and how you want to measure success. 
• Organize content : Divide information into logical modules or topics that can be accessed in any order. 
• Determine delivery method : Decide if you will deliver the training through an online platform, a webinar series, or other forms of instruction, such as text-based emails or videos. 
• Create structure : Design a framework for each module, including an introduction, main body with learning activities, and conclusion. 
• Develop content assets : Create relevant materials such as slides, quizzes, tutorials, and other assets to supplement the learning experience. 
• Monitor progress : Track student engagement with metrics such as completion rates and feedback ratings. 
• Evaluate outcomes : Analyze data to understand your program’s effectiveness and identify improvement areas.

Case Study: Blisspot

Blisspot , an online well-being solution, offers resources to support mental, physical, and emotional health for individuals and companies. Referred to as the “Netflix of well-being,” Blisspot provides users with easy access to expert resources like courses, podcasts, meditations, and goal-setting tools. The platform primarily targets small to midsize companies lacking in-house wellness programs or dedicated HR departments.

Initially experimenting with live events and workshops, Blisspot realized that online learning through Thinkific Plus would allow them to reach more people effectively. This seamless integration has enabled the company to offer personalized features such as tailored content recommendations based on user interests and goals. With a monthly membership fee of only $17 dollars per individual user or group subscriptions for employees offered by businesses participating in the program, accessibility is increased for all.

Thinkific Plus has helped Blisspot deliver enriching content while providing exceptional customer support that aligns with their mission of improving personal well-being and team performance across various industries.

A layered training structure is a way to organize online learning into multiple levels or stages. This approach allows learners to progress from basic concepts and knowledge to more advanced skills and understanding at their own pace. 

The pluses of using this learning strategy include the following: 

• Greater comprehension for the learner as they pass through each layer 
• Increased engagement in the learning process due to its progressive nature 
• Ability to tailor content based on learners’ needs and abilities 
• Clear evaluation points along the way so trainers can monitor the success
• Establish the purpose of your training structure : What do you want to achieve (e.g., customer education, revenue generation)? 
• Outline goals and objectives for each layer of the training structure : Consider what you would like to teach customers or how much revenue needs to be generated from each program tier. 
• Create a timeline for implementation : Once you have set your goals and objectives, decide how long it will take to deliver them in line with customer requirements and expectations. 
• Design content that meets the needs of learners at different levels : Structure content so that those new to the subject can easily understand basic concepts. In contrast, more experienced learners can deepen their skills. 
• Develop a system for tracking and measuring progress : Set up metrics for monitoring learner engagement, completion rate, satisfaction levels etc. 
• Establish an assessment process : Create assessments that measure how well learners have understood your training content and how successful they are in achieving goals set out in the program. 
• Assign resources to promote and support your training structure : Make sure you have adequate staff or technology resources available to ensure customers receive quality service throughout their learning journey. 
• Evaluate performance regularly : Review learner data and adjust the program as needed.

Case Study: BankersHub

BankersHub® , co-founded by Erin O’Donnell and Michael Beird, is a leading financial services training company dedicated to supporting and educating financial institutions worldwide. They offer the latest industry best practices, research insights, economic trends, and consumer views through their online education platform. Utilizing Thinkific Plus has allowed BankersHub® to stay ahead of the curve in financial services training while increasing both revenue and client engagement on their platform.

Recognizing the need for accessible online education following the 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis, BankersHub® used Thinkific Plus to set up their training academy – BankersCollegeTM. This provided an easy-to-use platform for seamless B2B selling with built-in administrative and communication features that improved customer experience without requiring additional headcount. 

Since launching courses on Thinkific Plus, they have experienced steady growth in course enrollments and an 8% increase in revenue last year – attributed mainly to customers’ satisfaction with a more formal learning process.

This format combines in-person and online learning activities to create an engaging learning experience. It is advantageous for B2B training businesses as it provides the following: 

• Flexibility : Learners can access content anytime, anywhere. 
• Cost savings : Reduced travel costs for instructors and participants. 
• Increased engagement : A diverse range of delivery methods engages participants more effectively. 
• Improved reach : More people can join sessions remotely or via video conferencing technology.

Step-by-Step Implementation

• Develop a blended training plan that incorporates both online and in-person components. 
• Decide which topics your customers will learn best from an in-person session and which can be taught effectively online. 
• Outline the objectives of each program component to ensure they are aligned with customer education goals. 
• Create content for each aspect of the blended learning structure, including videos, webinars, and physical materials like workbooks or handouts, if applicable. 
• Select appropriate content delivery platforms, such as Learning Management Systems (LMS) or virtual classrooms, for synchronous online sessions. 
• Assign instructors or facilitators for each program component and provide training as needed. 
• Launch your blended training structure and measure its success over time to ensure it meets customer education needs and generates revenue.

Case Study: Wallbreakers

Wallbreakers, an AI-powered platform co-founded by Andrea Guendelman, Leah La Salla, and Isaac Saldana, aims to bridge the skill gap between recent computer science graduates and top employers’ expectations for software development engineers. The company focuses on recruiting and retaining diverse talent from underrepresented backgrounds in the tech industry.

To manage a growing number of candidates and specialized training programs, Wallbreakers utilized Thinkific Plus to launch its online certification courses. This move enabled them to better monitor student progress while providing valuable certifications that make candidates more marketable to partner organizations like Amazon and Visa. 

By using Thinkific Plus features such as weekly reminder emails, group analysts, multimedia capabilities, and analytics support, Wallbreakers has successfully enhanced both candidate success rates and customer experiences in their program. Consequently, they have witnessed rapid growth through word-of-mouth marketing on social media platforms like LinkedIn.

This strategy presents information in a manner that is both progressive and cyclical. It begins with the most basic concepts, then introduces more complex ideas and builds on them as they are repeated throughout the course. 

With this approach, learners can continually review materials to solidify their understanding without getting overwhelmed by long lists of topics or competing ideas. The advantages for learners include: 

• A greater level of comprehension due to multiple repetitions 
• More straightforward navigation through content as similar subjects are grouped
• Opportunity to quickly master foundational concepts before progressing further 
• A more engaging learning experience as lessons are reinforced through repetition 
• More accessible course updates, allowing content to be cycled out and replaced with new material 
• Greater flexibility in creating different levels of courses or modules based on learners’ existing knowledge or needs 
• Faster delivery times due to fewer topics needing to be covered at once
• Define the key objectives of your educational course 
• Break down your content into modules 
• Designate a pre-requisite for each section 
• Create an assessment to gauge the trainee’s understanding and progress 
• Establish a spiral approach by linking topics from different modules together 
• Implement feedback loops throughout the training program to ensure proper comprehension and retention of materials 
• Monitor learner performance to adjust learning paths as needed 
• Integrate revenue-generating strategies such as upsells or referrals throughout the training program 
• Provide additional resources for self-paced learning or in-depth study 
• Track outcomes to measure and analyze the success of your training program

Case Study: Epoch Education

Epoch Education, a national leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training, offers over 50+ courses to educators, students, and corporations across the USA. Founded by Dr. Nancy Dome, their RIR Protocol™ – recognize it, interrupt it and repair it – forms the foundation of their training courses. Prior to Covid-19, Epoch Education facilitated in-person trainings throughout the US but quickly shifted to online education via Thinkific Plus in March 2020.

Thinkific Plus has enabled Epoch Education to deliver personalized and engaging DEI training content securely while improving learning experiences and increasing revenue. By expanding its focus beyond education towards small businesses and corporations – as well as utilizing multimedia lessons on Thinkific Plus platform for wider reach – they have successfully engaged clients from various sectors across the country with audiences up to 3500 people at once.

Course Outline Template

Overview and Purpose: A course outline template organizes the main topics, objectives, and learning outcomes of a training program to ensure a coherent structure throughout the course.

Key Sections and Subsections: Introduction, Training Objectives, Training Content & Schedule, Training Methodolody, Conclusion.

Sample Format: 

Title & Description

• Course Name: ABC Training Program
• Introduction: A comprehensive training program on XYZ skills.

Training Objectives

• Module 1: Topic A (Introduction to XYZ)
• Subtopic 1: Background and history of XYZ
• Subtopic 2: Importance of mastering XYZ skills in today’s market
• Module 2 etc.

We at Thinkific have put together a comprehensive template for you to use and customize. Download it here to fast-track your session planning.

Lesson Plan Template

Overview and Purpose: A lesson plan template provides instructors with a detailed guide for each session or module of the training program, including specific activities and resources required for effective learning.

Key Elements and Components: Objective(s), Timeframe, Materials/Resources Needed, Teaching Methods and Techniques (e.g., lecture presentation, discussion, group work), Activities and Tasks for Learners.

Sample Format:

Objective(s)

• By the end of this session, participants will be able to identify key components of the XYZ process.

Time Allotted: 90 minutes 

Materials/Resources Required:

• PowerPoint slides for presentation 
• Handout with key concepts and examples 

Instructional Technique(s):

• Lecture Presentation [30 min]

Activity/Task Description:

• Participants will listen and take notes during the lecture.

Training Session Agenda Template

Overview and Purpose: Overview and Purpose: This template helps trainers create an organized schedule for each session of their training program by allocating time to different topics while ensuring smooth progress throughout the event.

Key Sections and Time Allocation: Welcome/Introduction; Lecture Sessions; Breaks; Workshops or Discussions; Q&A and Closing Remarks.

08:30 – Welcome / Introduction [15 min]

09:00 – Presentation topic (Module 1) [45 min]

10:00 – Coffee break [15 min]

10:15 – Workshop activity (Group discussion on Module 1) [60 min]

Assessment and Evaluation Template

Overview and Purpose: The assessment template ensures that learners are evaluated effectively based on their understanding of course material through various assessment methods like quizzes, tests or practical assignments.

Key Criteria and Assessment Methods: Critera could include Multiple-choice Questions, Open-ended Questions, Practical Assignments/Tasks, Self-Reflections.

Assessment Title – Final Exam for ABC Training Program

Section I – Multiple-choice questions (20 points)

Question #1 –

Which one is a component of the XYZ process?

• a) Component A, b) Component B, c) Component C

Training Material Design Template

Overview and Purpose: This template guides trainers in creating visually appealing and engaging training materials that effectively communicate key concepts to learners while maintaining a consistent design throughout the course.

Key Sections and Visual Elements: Visual Elements can include Cover Page; Table of Contents; Headers and Footers with section names; Subheadings; Images & Graphics (charts/graphs/icons); Consistent Fonts & Colors.

Cover page template example:

• [Title] ABC Training Program Workbook [/Title]
• [Logo] Your Company Logo [/Logo]

Table of Contents template example:

• Table of Contents
• Introduction …………………………………………………. Page i 
• Module/topic name …………………………………………… Page ii
•  Subheading(s) ……………………………………………….. Page iii

Headers/Footers with section names template example:

• Header: ABC Training Program Workbook
• Footer: Module # – Topic Name | Page #

Images & Graphics template example:

• [Image] Diagram illustrating the XYZ process [/Image]

Consistent Fonts & Colors template example:

• Font Family: Arial or Calibri, Font Sizes: Titles (24pt), Subheadings (18pt), Body text (12-14pt); Colors: Company Branding colors for title/subheadings and black/grey for body text.

Once you’ve selected your training structure examples and templates for your online B2B learning products, you will add value to your offering when you apply the following strategies.

Customizing Training Structure for Specific Needs

By tailoring content to the needs and goals of a company, you will be able to provide an individualized approach that is more likely to engage customers, help them reach their objectives, and generate revenue for your business. 

Ensuring Seamless Transitions and Flow

Ensuring your modules have a smooth and orderly progression is key to optimizing the learning journey of each user. Best practices for achieving this include mapping out an organized curriculum, breaking it down into logical steps, providing clear objectives at the start of each session, and creating natural pathways that lead users from one topic to another. 

Incorporating Engaging Activities and Interactions

Incorporating dynamic and interactive elements such as quizzes, puzzles and activities can help customers to absorb and retain information in a more effective way. This will provide them with the tools needed to make the most out of their training experience.

Assessing and Adjusting Training Structure Effectiveness

It is essential to continually monitor, assess and refine your training structure in order to ensure that it remains effective. This can include regularly assessing customer feedback, evaluating the performance of employees trained using these measures and making necessary adjustments to stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Online training requires a different approach than in-person training, as the medium is drastically different and requires optimization to be effective. Here’s a look at several virtual learning strategies.

Adapting Training Structure for Virtual Learning

To adapt your educational course to the virtual environment, focus on creating an engaging environment through interactive activities such as polls and surveys, provide more self-guided resources like eBooks or podcasts and utilize customized tracking tools for progress assessment. 

Leveraging Technology and Interactive Tools

Technology has revolutionized the way we learn, offering us an abundance of virtual tools to create a more engaging and effective online learning environment. Here are some popular types of technology you can use for bringing your training online with courses: 

• A Learning Management System like Thinkific to build your courses 
• Video conferencing platforms such as Zoom or Skype 
• Virtual whiteboards for collaboration with course participants 
• Online quizzes with automated grading capabilities 
• An online community for your learners 
• Digital library resources that provide access to ebooks and other reading materials 
• Interactive teaching software that offers multimedia lessons and activities 
• Mobile applications that enable learners to access courses on their phones

Enhancing Learner Engagement and Interaction

When you move your training program online, you gain the ability to engage customers in a more interactive and progressive way. Some of the most inventive and popular methods include:

• Incorporating multimedia such as video, audio, and animation
• Utilizing chat boxes to allow for real-time communication and discussion
• Introducing gamification elements to motivate users
• Allowing customers to collaborate with peers via virtual classrooms, discussion rooms, or project groups

All of these tactics help keep participants engaged and can lead to greater knowledge retention.

Let’s examine a few more training approaches you can use as you develop your educational product.

Gamified Training Structure

Gamified training structure is a method of teaching and learning that uses game-like elements, such as points, badges, leaderboards, and rewards to motivate learners. It can be used to encourage engagement with content and reward progress toward the desired outcome or goal.

Role-Play Training Structure

This form of comprehensive training program encourages participants to simulate scenarios and practice in real-world situations. It focuses on replicating challenges and building skills for dealing with them, allowing employees to gain experience without the risk of failure.

Problem-Based Learning Structure

Instead of simply giving learners information, challenge-based learning immerses them in a problem and allows them to develop skills as they work toward a solution. 

Peer-Learning Structure

This learning approach encourages individuals to learn from each other by sharing their knowledge and experiences. It fosters collaboration between participants, creating an environment of mutual learning and growth.

Simulation-Based Training Structure

Programs built around this training method use virtual environments to simulate real-world scenarios. This process helps learners build skills and experience in safe, risk-free settings by allowing them to practice without consequence.

This article has explored various training structure examples and templates, such as sequential, modular, layered, blended, and spiral approaches. We’ve also discussed strategies for enhancing learner engagement through technology integration and virtual learning adaptation.

It’s essential to tailor your chosen training structure to suit the unique needs of your clients while ensuring a smooth flow between course modules. Regularly assessing your program’s effectiveness allows you to stay current with industry trends and maximize return on investment. 

By implementing these best practices within your online courses or training programs, you can cultivate engaging educational experiences that drive revenue growth for both your business and its clients. 

Download the Training Structure Template

Harness the power of well-structured training. This free template guides you in outlining a cohesive, engaging structure for your training programs or courses. Save time, enhance learning effectiveness, and ensure your training delivery is top-notch. Secure your copy today and elevate your training framework.

Q. Why is it important to have a structured training program for B2B businesses?

It is important to have a structured training program for B2B businesses because with a structured program, businesses can create online educational products that are tailored to their customers’ needs while also generating income from these products. In addition, having a well-defined program helps ensure quality assurance of the product, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Q. Can I modify the provided training structure examples and templates to align with my business requirements?

Yes, you can absolutely modify the provided training structure examples and templates to align with your business requirements. In fact, it is highly recommended that you tailor these structures to fit the unique needs of your clients and industry. Customizing your chosen training approach helps ensure a more engaging and relevant learning experience for your customers.

Q. How do I determine which training structure is most suitable for my B2B training programs?

To determine which training structure is most suitable for your B2B training program you should consider your program’s goals, budget, and customer needs. Evaluate what type of content you need to create, how long it will take for customers to complete the training program, and if any additional resources or support is needed. Additionally, think about how you can track progress and measure success in order to optimize your B2B training structure.

Daniela Ochoa is the go-to Content Marketing Specialist here at Thinkific Plus! With years of experience in marketing and communications, she is passionate about helping businesses grow through strategic storytelling, innovative digital campaigns, and online learning at scale.On this blog, she shares her expertise in content marketing, lead generation, and more.

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• Training Audit Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide for Effective Evaluation
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• Gamification in Training: The Complete Guide to E-Learning Gamification

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Technology

How to Write a Computer Sales & Service Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a computer sales & services business? If YES, here is a complete sample computer sales & services business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE . According to a recent report, computer sales and related services are expected to exceed $47 billion this year in the U.S. alone, with computer servicing leading the way.

This goes to show that any entrepreneur who properly positions himself or herself in computer sales and servicing industry would definitely enjoy good business turnover. As a matter of fact, almost all businesses and homes have computers, and these people may not have the skills, time or the desire to do their own computer servicing, repairs and upgrades, and that puts a computer physician right in the middle of one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

A Sample Computer Sales & Services Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The computer sales and servicing industry includes operators that mainly sell and service all forms of computers such as desktops, laptops, notebooks, palmtops and software, as well as accessories like printers, scanners and keyboards. These goods are generally purchased from domestic and international manufacturers and wholesalers and then sold to end consumers, including households and businesses.

Computers have exploded throughout America and the world over the past 30 years – from 2,000 units shipped in 1960 to 900,000 in 1980 to 7 million in 1990 to over 15 million per year by 2003 to over 65 million per quarter in 2015. With this rapid growth, there has been a corresponding increase in the need for computer services.

If you are conversant with happenings in the Computer Sales and Services industry, you will notice that computers are rapidly becoming indispensable household and personal products. In spite of the growing ubiquity of these products, retailers of computers, peripherals and consumer electronics have experienced some time-consuming challenges over the past five years.

Swift technological change, increased production efficiency and a highly globalized supply chain have lowered computer retail prices, hampering the industry’s revenue potential.

In addition, the increasing adoption of e-commerce has reduced customer traffic in computer stores, further limiting revenue. More consumers are now taking advantage of online shopping, which facilitates product and price comparisons. Going forward, industry revenue is expected to decrease.

The Computer Sales and Services industry is indeed a large industry and pretty much active in most countries of the world. Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 18,173 registered and licensed (big, medium scale and small) computer manufacturing companies scattered all across the United States responsible for employing about 94,791 people and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $29 billion annually.

The industry is projected to enjoy -0.4 percent annual growth within 2012 and 2017. It is important to state that Apple Inc., Best Buy Co. Inc. and Fry’s have lion shares of the available market in this industry.

Computer sales account for an estimated 44.0 percent of industry revenue in 2017. Products in this segment include desktops and laptops, with laptop sales outpacing that of desktops. While desktops were historically the most commonly purchased computer product, the falling price of computers and computer components over the past five years reduced the premium that laptops once commanded over desktops.

A majority of consumers’ favor laptops for their portability, augmented by the increasingly wireless data infrastructure. However, desktops still maintain advantages in niche market, particularly with gaming enthusiasts and computer power users who prefer a desktop computer’s superior upgrade potential, ease of repair and customizability.

No doubt everybody will quite agree that the computer sales and services industry has come to stay and of course it is one industry that plays key roles not only in the business world, but also in almost all aspects of what goes around in our world today as long as computers are involved.

Over and above, the Computer Sales and Services industry is an open industry hence a low level of market share concentration. Even though large multiservice agencies operate in the industry, revenue is also spread among thousands of small computer stores and repair centers.

2. Executive Summary

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is a U.S based computer sales and services company. We have been able to secure a standard store facility in a central business district in Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls – South Dakota. We are set to compete in the highly competitive computer sales and services industry not only in Sioux Falls – South Dakota, but also throughout the United States market.

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC will engage in the sales and servicing of all forms of computers such as desktops, laptops, palmtops and software, as well as accessories like printers, scanners and keyboards. Our business goal is to become one of the top brands in the computer sales and services industry in the United States and we will make sure that we do all we can to compete favorably with leaders in the industry.

Our workers are going to be selected from a pool of certified and highly experienced computer sales and services engineers in and around Sioux Falls – South Dakota and also from any part of the United States of America as the business grows. We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required training that will position them to meet the expectations of the company.

At Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC, our client’s best interest will always come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics. We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely.

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is a joint partnership business that is owned by Engr. Harry Jordan a computer engineer par excellence who graduated with from Illinois Institute of Technology (B.Engr. Computer Engineering), and his friend and business partner Barry Martins (B.Sc. Business Management).

They have a combined experience that can help them build Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC to favorably compete with other leading computer sales and services businesses in the United States of America.

3. Our Products and Services

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the computer sales and services industry. We want to compete favorably with companies in the United States which is why we have put in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that every service rendered meets and even surpasses our customers’ expectations.

We will work hard to ensure that Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is not just accepted in Sioux Falls – South Dakota but also in other cities in the United States of America. Our products and services are listed below;

• Sales and servicing of all sort of computers
• Sales and servicing of computer peripherals (e.g. printers, monitors, keyboards, mouse and speakers)
• Sale of computer software
• Computer installation
• Computer Cloning/upgrade
• Offering other computer repair and installation related services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a one stop computer sales and service center whose services and brand will not only be accepted in Sioux Falls – South Dakota but also in other cities in the United States of America.
• Our mission is to retail computers and related products and also to provide professional computer services that will assist businesses and individuals in ensuring that their computers are always in good shape to help them carry out their business.
• We want to build a computer sales and services company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the computer sales and services industry.

Our Business Structure

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC, is a computer sales and services company that intend starting small in Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, but hopes to grow big in order to compete with leading computer sales and services companies in the United States.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations.

At Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Store Manager
• Head, Technical Services
• Human Resources and Admin Manager
• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Computer Repair and Maintenance Engineers and Technicians (10)
• Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by employing, choosing, orientating, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Accountable for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Store Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the store
• Ensures that proper records of computers and computer parts are kept and warehouse does not run out of products
• Ensures that the store facility is in tip top shape and goods are properly arranged and easy to locate
• Controls distribution and supply chain inventory
• Supervises the workforce in the sales floor
• Helps to ensure consistent quality of computers and computer parts are purchased and retailed in good price that will ensure we make good profit

Head, Technical Services:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Makes certain that the technical department performs efficiently, coordinates employee efforts, facilitates communication between management and computer repairs and maintenance engineers and technicians
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writing winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops executes and evaluate new plans for expanding sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empower and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets

Accountant/Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization.

Computer Repair and Maintenance Engineers (2) and Technicians (8)

• Responsible for general computer repairs and maintenance services
• Carry out computer installation services for clients
• Responsible for carrying out computer cloning and upgrade
• Responsible for handling Networking of computer system
• Responsible for handling virus removal Data recovery
• Handles computer and accessories sales and supply for the organization

Help Desk Officers

• Welcomes clients and potential clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level.
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services.
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the creative director in an effective and timely manner.
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information are supplied to clients when they make enquiries.
• Find out the customer’s needs, recommend, select and help locate the right merchandise, describe a product’s features and benefits.
• Bag, package or gift-wrap merchandise as requested by customers.

6. SWOT Analysis

Because of our quest for excellence, Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured computer sales and services business that can favorably compete in the industry in the United States.

Part of what the business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a comprehensive SWOT analysis for Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC;

Our core strength lies in the power of our workforce. We have a team of trained and certified computer repair engineers and technicians, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the industry. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected workforce, our services will be guided by best practices in the industry and we will ensure that we have all brands and types of computers in our store per time.

As a new computer sales and services center in Sioux Falls – South Dakota, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already highly competitive computer sales and services industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to pump into promoting our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the computer sales and services industry is massive considering the number of individuals and businesses that own computers. So also, the launch of new tablets will likely drive consumers into stores to test and compare products. As a computer sales and services company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

The increasing adoption of e-commerce has reduced customer traffic in computer stores, further limiting revenue and also, the domestic PC market has shrunk due to market saturation and greater competition from tablets, are some of the threats that will confront us.

So also, one major threat that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new computer sales and services center in same location where our target market exists and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The extent at which the internet and computer has taken over our world is a pure sign that every computer literate needs the services of a computer repairer when his/her computer malfunctions – be it hardware or software.

The very nature of the Computer Sales and Services industry, with its extraordinary rate of technological development, creates a constant need for businesses skilled in updating and advising customers on computer-related issues.

With every individual armed with a computer and with almost all valuable information in our daily lives being stored in the computer, the computer selling business is booming and with this booming comes a need for repair.

Everybody with a computer knows that moment of panic when the hard drive crashes–and for business people, it usually happens when they are staring into the eye of a deadline. The need for computer physicians is growing every day and more people are venturing into this field, making it a competitive and goal oriented industry.

Lastly, the computer sales and services industry will continue to evolve due to the advancement of computer technology and software designs et al.

8. Our Target Market

Before starting our computer sales and services business in Sioux Falls – South Dakota, we conducted a market survey and feasibility studies and we are certain that there is a wide range of both corporate and individual clients who cannot successfully run their businesses without computers.

In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know can’t afford to do without our products and services. Below is a list of people we will specifically market our products and services to;

• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Blue Chips Companies
• Corporate Organizations
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• Research and Development Companies
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Celebrities, Politicians, Public Figures and Public Speakers
• Sport Organizations
• Religious Organizations
• Television Stations
• Printing Press (Publishing Houses) and Authors
• Branding and Advertising agencies
• Individuals and households who own computers

Our Competitive Advantage

Surviving in the business world as a computer sales and services company requires more than your expertise, knowing how to deliver standard repairs and maintenance but also how to network with key people that matter.

We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the computer sales and services industry means that you are not only expected to deliver reliable computer supply, installation, repair, networking and maintenance jobs, but you must be able to meet set targets.

No one would want to continue to hire your services if don’t always meet up with the target date of completion of projects. Our competitive advantage lies in our ability to control stock at hand, our experienced work force and proximity to key markets.

We equally have a team of certified, highly trained and experienced computer repair engineers and technicians, a team with excellent qualifications and experience in various niche areas in the computer sales and service industry. Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected workforce, our services will be guided by best practices in the industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the computer sales and services industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients.

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC will generate income by;

• Computer Cloning and upgrade

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain, there would always be corporate organizations and individuals who would need to purchase computers and accessories. We are well positioned to take on the available market in Sioux Falls –  South Dakota and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough profits from our first six months of operation.

We have been able to critically examine the computer sales and services market, we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projections are based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Sioux Falls – South Dakota.

• First Year: $350,000
• Second Year: $750,000
• Third Year: $1.2 million

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same products and services as we do within the same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are mindful of the fact that there are stiff competitions in the computer sales and services industry, hence we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experience in the industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC.

Our corporate goal is to grow Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC to become one of the top 10 computer sales and services brands in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategies that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in Sioux Falls – South Dakota but also in other cities in the United States of America.

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our computer sales and services center by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to individuals, corporate organizations and key stake holders in and around Sioux Falls – South Dakota.
• Promptness in bidding for computer supply, installation, repair, networking and maintenance contract from the government and other cooperate organizations
• Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV and radio stations.
• List our business in yellow pages’ ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent services
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our in-house brand and publicity consultant to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market. We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate and individual clients in the whole of the Sioux Falls and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our computer sales and services company.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events/programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services.
• Install our billboards in strategic locations all around Sioux Falls – South Dakota.
• Engage in roadshows from time to time in targeted neighborhoods.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas.
• List our computer sales and services company in local directories/yellow pages
• Advertise our computer sales and services company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our company logo.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC we will keep the prices of our products and services below the average market rate by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations who would purchase our products or hire our services. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

We are aware that there are some one – off jobs or government contracts like computer supply, installation, repair, networking and maintenance which are always lucrative, we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via credit cards/Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via mobile money transfer
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payments for the purchase of our products or our services without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials for this purpose.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

From our market survey and feasibility studies, we have been able to come up with a detailed budget on achieving our aim of establishing a standard and highly competitive computer sales and services company in Sioux Falls – South Dakota and here are the key areas where we will spend our startup capital;

• The total fee for registering the business in the Unites States of America – $750 .
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• The cost for hiring business consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• The cost for payment of rent for 12 months at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• The cost for shop remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ( $500 ) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000.
• The cost for start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of computers such as desktops, notebook computers and software, as well as accessories like printers, scanners and keyboards. et al from different manufacturing brands) – $200,000
• The cost for counter area equipment – $9,500.
• The cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• The cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: $10,000 .
• The cost for the purchase of office furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of launching a website: $600 .
• The cost for our opening party: $7,000 .
• Miscellaneous: $10,000.

We would need an estimate of three hundred and fifty thousand dollars ( $350,000 ) to successfully set up our computer sales and services store in Sioux Falls – South Dakota.

Generating Startup Capital for Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is a business that will be owned and managed by Engr. Harry Jordan and his friend and business partner Barry Martins. They are the financiers of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

These are the areas we intend generating our startup capital;

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks.
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members.
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank.

N.B: We have been able to generate about $150,000 ( Personal savings $120,000 and soft loan from family members $30,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $200,000 from our bank. All papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business, then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to sell or computers and accessories and offer our computer repair and maintenance services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Harry & Barry® Computer Sales & Services Center, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard office facility for our studio: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the startup capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
• Printing of Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating official website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Opening party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of the list of products that will be available in our store: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – manufacturers and suppliers of computers, computer parts and accessories: In Progress

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Home » Agile Development » Prioritizing Requirements with MoSCoW Method: A Guide for Agile Projects

Prioritizing Requirements with MoSCoW Method: A Guide for Agile Projects

• Posted on March 28, 2023
• / Under Agile & Scrum , Agile Development , Project Management

The MoSCoW method is a prioritization technique used in project management, software development, and business analysis. It helps to prioritize requirements based on their importance and urgency, and allows project managers to allocate resources and budget accordingly. In this article, we will explore the MoSCoW method and provide an example of its implementation.

What is the MoSCoW Method?

The MoSCoW method is a prioritization technique that categorizes requirements into four groups: Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Won’t-haves. The acronym MoSCoW stands for:

• Must have: critical requirements that are essential for the project’s success. These requirements are mandatory and must be included in the project scope.
• Should have: important requirements that are necessary for the project’s success but can be delayed if necessary. These requirements are important, but not critical, and can be deferred to a later phase of the project.
• Could have: desirable requirements that are not essential for the project’s success, but can enhance the project’s value. These requirements are optional and can be included if time and budget allow.
• Won’t have: requirements that are not needed for the project’s success and are not included in the project scope.

The MoSCoW method helps project managers prioritize requirements based on their importance and urgency. It allows them to focus on the critical requirements and allocate resources and budget accordingly.

Example of MoSCoW Method

Let’s consider an example of a software development project to understand how the MoSCoW method works.

Suppose a company wants to develop a new mobile app for its customers. The app should allow customers to order products, track their orders, and receive notifications. The company also wants to include some additional features to make the app more appealing to customers.

The project team identifies the following requirements:

• Must have: The app must allow customers to order products, track their orders, and receive notifications.
• Should have: The app should have a search feature that allows customers to search for products, and a payment feature that allows customers to pay for their orders using various payment methods.
• Could have: The app could have a loyalty program feature that rewards customers for their purchases, and a referral program feature that incentivizes customers to refer the app to their friends and family.
• Won’t have: The app won’t have a social media integration feature that allows customers to share their purchases on social media platforms.

Using the MoSCoW method, the project team has prioritized the requirements based on their importance and urgency. The must-have requirements are critical for the success of the project and must be included in the app. The should-have requirements are important, but can be deferred to a later phase of the project if necessary. The could-have requirements are optional and can be included if time and budget allow. The won’t-have requirements are not needed for the project’s success and are not included in the project scope.

Real-life Example – CRM System

Project Description: Development of a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System

The objective of this Agile project is to develop a CRM system for a small business that specializes in providing customized solutions to its clients. The CRM system will be designed to streamline the sales process and improve customer interactions, allowing the business to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The project will follow the Agile methodology, which involves iterative and incremental development. The Agile team will work closely with the client to gather requirements, develop prototypes, and deliver functional software increments in short iterations, typically two weeks.

Identify a List of User Stories

To create the list of user stories, you can considered the different roles that would interact with the system, such as sales representatives, managers, and customers, and thought about the various tasks they would need to perform in order to achieve their goals. you can also considered the different types of data that would need to be stored and managed within the system, such as customer information, sales data, and marketing campaigns.

Based on this analysis, you can then generated a list of user stories that covered a broad range of functionality, from lead tracking and customer service, to sales proposals and reporting. The list of user stories is intended to provide a starting point for the development team to use in prioritizing and planning the development of the CRM system.

Here is a list of user stories for the CRM system development project:

• As a sales representative, I want to be able to track all of my leads in one place so that I can easily manage my sales pipeline.
• As a sales manager, I want to be able to view and monitor my team’s progress in real-time so that I can provide coaching and support as needed.
• As a customer service representative, I want to be able to view all of a customer’s interactions with our company so that I can provide personalized support.
• As a marketing manager, I want to be able to segment our customers based on their preferences and behavior so that I can target them with relevant campaigns.
• As a customer, I want to be able to view my purchase history and account information so that I can easily manage my relationship with the company.
• As a customer service representative, I want to be able to log and track customer complaints and inquiries so that I can ensure that they are addressed in a timely manner.
• As a sales representative, I want to be able to generate quotes and proposals quickly and easily so that I can close deals faster.
• As an administrator, I want to be able to manage user permissions and access levels so that I can control who has access to sensitive information.
• As a sales representative, I want to be able to schedule and manage appointments with my clients so that I can stay organized and on top of my schedule.
• As a manager, I want to be able to generate reports on sales performance, customer satisfaction, and other metrics so that I can make informed business decisions.

These user stories cover a range of functionality that the CRM system should provide. The development team can use these user stories to prioritize the most important features for the system, and to ensure that the system meets the needs of all stakeholders.

In table format, let’s present a clear and concise summary of the 10 user stories related to a business scenario to provide an overview of the user stories.

The table provides information on the user role, the specific goal they want to achieve, and the user story number to easily reference each story. By organizing the user stories in a table, it is easier to understand and prioritize the features that need to be developed to meet the needs of the stakeholders involved in the project. This table can serve as a reference for the development team to design and implement features that align with the needs of the end-users and stakeholders.

Prioritize the User Stories

It is important to prioritize the user stories based on their business value and impact on the project goals. This ensures that the development effort is focused on the most important and valuable features, and that the project can be delivered on time and within budget.

Prioritization can be done using various techniques such as the MoSCoW method, which categorizes user stories as “must-haves,” “should-haves,” “could-haves,” and “won’t-haves.” User stories categorized as “must-haves” are the most critical and should be developed first, while “should-haves” and “could-haves” can be developed later in subsequent iterations or releases.

Here’s a table for the 10 user stories mentioned earlier, with the relevant information and prioritization based on the MoSCoW method:

In this table, the user stories are listed in order of priority, with the “must-have” features listed first, followed by the “should-haves” and “could-haves.” The “won’t-haves” feature is not planned for implementation in this project, but may be considered for future development.

By prioritizing the user stories, the development team can ensure that the most critical features are developed first, providing value to the stakeholders and enabling the project to meet its objectives within the time and budget constraints.

Example: A Scrum Development Plan for the CRM

here is a high-level outline for a Scrum development plan to start the agile project. However, the specific details of the plan will depend on the project requirements, team structure, and other factors. Here’s an example of a Scrum development plan:

• Define the Product Backlog: The first step is to define the product backlog, which is a prioritized list of all the features, functionalities, and requirements that need to be implemented in the project. This backlog will be maintained throughout the project and will be continually refined and updated based on the changing needs of the stakeholders.
• Conduct Sprint Planning: After the product backlog has been defined, the team will conduct a sprint planning meeting to select a set of user stories from the backlog to be developed in the upcoming sprint. The team will estimate the effort required for each user story, and select the user stories that can be completed within the sprint timeframe.
• Conduct Daily Scrum Meetings : Once the sprint has started, the team will conduct daily scrum meetings to review progress, identify any obstacles or challenges, and adjust the plan as needed. The daily scrum meetings should be short and focused, with each team member providing an update on their progress.
• Develop the Product Increment: During the sprint, the team will work on developing the selected user stories, focusing on delivering a working product increment by the end of the sprint. The team will collaborate closely, with developers, testers, and other team members working together to deliver the product increment.
• Conduct Sprint Review: At the end of the sprint, the team will conduct a sprint review meeting to demonstrate the product increment to the stakeholders, gather feedback, and review the progress made during the sprint.
• Conduct Sprint Retrospective: After the sprint review, the team will conduct a sprint retrospective meeting to review the sprint process, identify areas for improvement, and plan for the next sprint.
• Repeat the process: The team will repeat this process for each subsequent sprint, continuing to refine and update the product backlog, and focusing on delivering a working product increment at the end of each sprint.

This Scrum development plan provides a framework for managing the agile project, with regular meetings and reviews to ensure that the project is on track and delivering value to the stakeholders.

The article discusses the MoSCoW method, which is a prioritization technique used in Agile project management to prioritize project requirements. The MoSCoW method divides requirements into four categories: Must-have, Should-have, Could-have, and Won’t-have. The article provides a real-life example of an Agile project and how to identify user stories for the project. The user stories are then prioritized using the MoSCoW method, with the Must-have requirements given top priority.

The article also outlines a Scrum development plan, which includes defining the product backlog, conducting sprint planning, daily scrum meetings, developing the product increment, sprint review, sprint retrospective, and repeating the process. The Scrum development plan provides a framework for managing the Agile project, ensuring that the project is on track, and delivering value to stakeholders.

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How to Prioritize With the MoSCoW Method

Do you need help prioritizing tasks when managing a project? There’s an acronym for that! It’s called the MoSCow method and it’s a great technique to help with prioritization.

What Is the MoSCoW Method?

The MoSCoW method is a technique that helps organizations prioritize what should be done first in a project. It is done in four steps that follow the acronym MoSCoW, which stands for must have, should have, could have and will not have. It’s used by anyone who needs to prioritize their work and is especially useful in project management.

The MoSCoW method can help when project planning. ProjectManager is award-winning project management software that can take the results of your MoSCow method and organize them into a project plan. Our powerful Gantt charts organize tasks, link all four task dependencies to avoid delays and can set a baseline to capture the project plan and compare it to the actual progress to ensure you stay on schedule. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

MoSCoW Prioritization Categories

Managing a project is often about managing what you will – and won’t! – get done in the given project timeline . When there are no priorities set, projects can quickly become free-for-alls, with the loudest voices in the room getting their work prioritized over others, often not for the benefit of the project or the organization.

But there’s a different approach. It’s called the MoSCoW method for defining and managing requirements and tasks in a project . Here is a list to clarify what those requirements are:

Must-Have Requirements (M)

Another way to refer to this is as the minimum usable subset (MUS) or what the project must deliver. In other words, the project must deliver these on the target date for the project to remain on track. No delay is acceptable. It is either going to take the project off track, it’s unsafe or even illegal not to have this done by the time given in the project’s business case .

A way to understand if you’re dealing with a MUS is by asking yourself, “What happens if this isn’t met?” If the answer is, “The project fails ,” then you have a MUS. Any workaround that can be devised to continue with the project and not jeopardize its success, means this isn’t a MUS.

Should-Have Requirements (S)

This type of requirement is almost as important as a MUS, but it’s not vital to the success of the project. In other words, the project doesn’t depend on this requirement. You might not want to leave it out, as it could have a great impact on the project, but in the end, it can be done without causing any irreparable harm. Again, leaving out this requirement means a lot of work⁠ (finding a solution, changing stakeholders’ expectations, maybe experiencing some inefficiency⁠), but the project can go on.

Could-Have Requirements (C)

The difference between a should-have requirement and a could-have requirement is simply by figuring out the degree of pain that would be caused by not meeting it. That is, how will it impact the business value of the project, how many people would be affected, etc. Therefore, a could-have requirement is something you’d like but is less important than a should-have requirement. There will be an impact if it’s left out of the project, but less than the impact of a should-have requirement.

What We Will Not Have This Time (W)

Here is where you can collect those requirements that are not feasible for a specific release. Maybe next time, but the project remains strong without them. This is a great way to avoid project scope creep . Once initiatives are placed in the not-have-time category, teams know that they’re not a priority for this go-around and can place them on the back burner and out of their mind. This allows them to focus more sharply on those requirements that are important to the project.

What Is the MoSCoW Method Used For?

The MoSCow method can be of use to anyone who has work and needs to prioritize that work to know what’s essential and what can be ignored. It’s mostly used in product development, software development and project management. In project management that helps determine which tasks, requirements, products and user stories (in agile projects) the team needs to prioritize.

How to Implement the MoSCoW Method in 3 Steps

The MoSCoW method is a valuable tool, but only if you know how to use it. Here are three steps that will help you use the MoSCoW method when prioritizing your project.

1. Gather Project Requirements

Start by identifying all project requirements . Just make a giant list and be as thorough as possible. You don’t want to leave out anything that might prove essential to the project.

2. Prioritize Project Requirements

Now go through that list and attach a letter to each, according to the MoSCoW method of M for must-have, S for should have, C could have and W for what you won’t have. This allows you to prioritize the work and know what can be put aside to focus on what’s important.

3. Track the Completion of Project Deliverables

Now that you’ve classified your requirements, you can carry out the work in a timely manner. Tracking that work ensures that you don’t miss any deadlines and that all high-priority requirements will be met.

Benefits of the MoSCoW Method

The clear benefit of using the MoSCoW method is that it provides a means to prioritize work and know what is essential to the project and what can be ignored if time and cost prevent one from completing every requirement. But there are more advantages of the MoSCoW method, some of which we list below.

Helps Ensure Stakeholder Satisfaction

Stakeholders have a vested interest in the project and the project should satisfy their expectations . The MoSCoW method helps manage stakeholders by getting them to all agree on the prioritization of requirements and, therefore, helps to resolve any conflicts that might arise over the execution of those requirements.

It’s Easy to Understand and Implement

Using the MoSCoW method identifies the priority of project requirements. This information can then be disseminated to the project team so it’s clear to everyone what must be done. Now the team understands what’s prioritized and can implement those requirements first.

Helps Teams Cut Unnecessary Costs

The MoSCoW method allows everyone on the project team to know what they have to get done first, which increases revenue by decreasing operational costs, improving productivity and increasing customer satisfaction.

Moscow Method Example

Leadership guru Susanne Madsen leads this training video on how to use the MoSCoW Method to prioritize your requirements in a project.

How ProjectManager Helps You Prioritize

ProjectManager is online project management software that can make sure your requirements are being met throughout the life cycle of the project. Because our software gives you real-time data, you’re able to meet your priorities.

Our real-time dashboard shows real-time data that is displayed over six different project metrics. These numbers are crunched and illustrated in colorful, easy-to-read graphs and charts that keep project managers keenly assessed on the progress of their priorities.

Workflow is also visualized with kanban boards that keep teams focused on their priorities. Online Gantt charts can link dependencies and teams can collaborate at the task level, adding comments, documents and images.

There’s so much more that ProjectManager offers. To get a full picture of what we can do to help you better manage your next project, try our free 30-day trial today.

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