Although a business plan isn’t usually the first thing on the mind of the upstart entrepreneur, a plan and some organizational framework begins to make sense as a company grows up a bit.

Many businesses function without a business plan. Let’s not argue whether it’s necessary in every business. Better questions might be ‘Is a business plan necessary for mere survival?’ or ‘Would the same company do better if it followed a business plan?’

A company isn’t likely to reach optimum without paying close attention to a business plan. A business plan forces the issue of income goals and expense controls. These “goals and controls” set the stage for the owner to see progress, upcoming plans and challenges. A goal-oriented business plan puts the leader in a position to need (and therefore develop) sound management practices.

Here, it’s worth pointing out the different between success and survival. Lots of companies in every town survive. Few are succeeding and seen as industry leaders.