Product Reviews

If you're starting a new business, or trying to get a loan for an existing one, then you need a business plan. Without a good, convincing business proposal, the bank won't lend you a penny. If that sounds like an intimidating chore that you have no idea how to start, then Business Planner is for you.

Business Planner is an easy-to-use program. It provides structured help and step-by-step advice that's simple to follow, even if you have no business expertise. When something crops up that might cause confusion, there are hints and tips to keep you on the right path.

The first time you run the program, you're taken through a four-stage planning process. In the course of these four stages you are prompted to enter your company details; your

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projected income; your projected expenses; and a detailed list of information on your assets, credit, investments and other relevant information. Once the planning is done, you're ready to move on to stage five: actually creating your business plan.

The business plan stage, just like the first four stages, prompts you to enter information into a wizard. This time, however, the information is more complex. For instance, you have to write an executive summary of your plan, and the business opportunity you intend to pursue. Each step is explained in detail, and accompanied by smart tips to help you along. You're also given an example of the kind of thing you should write. If you're new to business - or you simply find it difficult to express yourself in writing - this will be an invaluable aid.

Ultimate Business Planner also comes with 1,000 sample plans for you to use. So if you still don't feel confident enough to put your own plan together, then you can always use one of these off-the-peg jobs instead.

You have to bring the information and ideas to the program. What it does very well is to help you organise your thoughts and plans, and use them to create a tightly-structured plan. Perfect for new businesses, businesses that want to secure a loan and any business that just wants to take stock of where it's at.