WordPerfect PerfectExpert lets you create three-fold brochures. Brochures generally fall into three main categories: corporate, product, and basic.
The keys to successful brochures are interesting, substantial information and careful, logical organization. Give your readers good information value in return for their reading. Remember to organize your information well. Make your brochure eye-catching and informative. Do not use too many elements in a panel, and make sure you leave plenty of white space around your information.
Use an eye-catching graphic and title font on the cover of your brochure to engage the reader's attention, and use a mixture of graphical elements (for example, white space, drawings, and graphics) to lead the eye through your brochure.
If you want to mail your brochure to many different people, use Merge to quickly address the mailers. Be sure to proofread your brochure to make sure you catch any formatting, text, or organizational errors before you send it to others. If you are using preprinted paper, make a photocopy of the paper and use it to test print your brochure so that you can know which way to insert the specialized paper.
Here are some suggestions for items you can include in your brochure:
Title-Add a title to catch your reader's attention, explain what the brochure is about, and so on. If you use an attention-getting title rather than an informative one, you may want to add an explanatory subtitle. Use a large font size for the title to emphasize it.
Subtitle-Add a subtitle to the title page of your brochure. The subtitle can help explain the title, give extra information, or even be your company's motto or the theme for an event. Use a smaller font size for the subtitle to help distinguish it from the title.
Logo-Add your logo to the front page of the brochure to help identify your company. If you do not have a logo file or want to add another graphic, you can choose an image from the extensive collection of Clipart.
Headers, footers, and page numbers-Add headers and footers to repeat your slogan, the name of your company, or other information you want to emphasize. The headers and footers repeat on the top and bottom of each page of the brochure, inside the page border. After you type the header or footer text, you can choose fonts, justifications, and other appearance options. You can also add a page number and position it on each page.
Body-Add your information to the body of the brochure. Organize it carefully so that one point flows into the next. Use a tone appropriate to the audience and purpose of the brochure. Give useful information and not just filler.
Page border-Add a page border to help your readers distinguish between pages in the brochure. A border can also emphasize a certain page and add decoration to the title page. Choose your page border carefully so that it adds to your brochure instead of making it look cluttered and difficult to read.
Schedule block-If your brochure is advertising an event, such as a conference or a series of classes, you may want to include a schedule. Be sure to include both the times and activities.
Address block-Include the address of your company or home on your brochure if you want your readers to respond. You can also format the brochures as three-fold mailers so that you can send them through the postal service. Be sure to include all the necessary information (for example, office numbers, "attention" lines, and country codes), and make the address block easy to read.
Questionnaire-If you want to gather information from your readers (for example, names, professions, addresses, phone numbers, arrival dates, number of guests, and preferences), use a questionnaire. You can place the questionnaire anywhere in your brochure, though it is usually on the last page.
Choosing a brochure style
You can use an eye-catching graphic and title font on the cover of your brochure to engage the reader's attention and use a mixture of graphical elements (for example, white space, drawings, and graphics) to lead the eye through your brochure.
To create a brochure
The keys to successful brochures are interesting, substantial information and careful, logical organization. You can give your readers good information value in return for their reading. Remember to organize your information well. Make your brochure eye-catching and informative. Do not use too many elements in a panel, and make sure you leave plenty of white space around your information.
Adding a title to a brochure
You can add a title to catch your reader's attention and explain what the brochure is about. If you use an attention-getting title rather than an informative one, you may want to add an explanatory subtitle. Use a large font size for the title to distinguish it from the subtitle.
Adding a subtitle to a brochure
You can add a subtitle to the title page of your brochure. The subtitle can help explain the title, give extra information, or even be your company's motto or the theme for an event. Use a smaller font size for the title to distinguish it from the title.
Adding a logo to a brochure
You can add your logo to the front page of the brochure to help identify your company. If you do not have a logo file or want to add another graphic, you can choose an image from the extensive collection of Clipart.
Adding headers, footers, and numbers to a brochure
You can add headers and footers to repeat your slogan, the name of your company, or any other information you want to emphasize. The headers and footers repeat on the top and bottom of each page of the brochure, inside the page border. After you type the header or footer text, you can choose fonts, justifications, and other appearance options.
You can also add a page number and position it on each page.
Adding text to a brochure
You can add information to the body of the brochure. Organize it so that one point flows into the next. Use a tone appropriate to the audience and purpose of the brochure. Give useful information, not just filler.
Adding a page border to a brochure
You can add a page border to help readers distinguish between pages in the brochure. A border can also emphasize a certain page and add decoration to the title page. Choose your page border carefully so that it adds to your brochure instead of making it look cluttered and difficult to read.
Adding a schedule block to a brochure
If your brochure is advertising an event, such as a conference or a series of classes, you may want to include a schedule. Be sure to include both the times and activities.
Adding an address to a brochure
You can include the address of your company or home in your brochures if you want your readers to respond. You can also format the brochures as three-fold mailers so that you can send them through the postal service. Be sure to include all the necessary information (for example, office numbers, "attention" lines, and country codes), and make the address block easy to read.
Adding a questionnaire to a brochure
You can create a questionnaire to gather information from your readers (for example, names, professions, addresses, phone numbers, arrival dates, number of guests, or preferences). You can place the questionnaire anywhere in your brochure, though it is usually on the last page.
Mailing a brochure
If you are mailing your brochure to many different people, use Merge to quickly address the mailers. Be sure to proofread your brochure before you send it to make sure you catch any formatting, text, or organizational errors. If you are using preprinted paper, make a photocopy of the paper and use it to test print your brochure so that you know which way to insert the specialized paper.
If you are mailing your brochures, you can use Merge to insert the addresses of your customers onto the fifth page.
Creating a corporate brochure
A corporate brochure is an annual report condensed down to brief form, with all the time-sensitive material removed. It can include content about the company, such as: company name; business and office locations; ranking among like businesses; a list of products; policies and actions on environmental issues; organizational structure, personnel information and biographical sketches, and number of employees; market information, market share, and stock information; achievements, charitable contributions, awards, and recognition; sales information; research and development efforts; history and background; employee benefits; quality assurance programs; and future plans.
Creating a product brochure
A product information brochure showcases certain products or services, from new software programs to ocean cruises to a series of lectures in a seminar. Besides the company name and product name, a product brochure can include product content such as: ways and reasons to use the product; benefits the customer can expect from using it; features' and options' packages; pricing information, schedules for fees and terms; technical specifications; information on product support (for example, warranties and help lines); testimonials from clients; client lists; sales contact information; ordering information; schedules for classes; biographical information on speakers or sales people; tuition rates; and deadlines for registration.
Creating an informational brochure
Informational brochures are designed to spread ideas or information. They can include any content you want to put in them, from tips on handling stress to interesting holiday recipes.
Creating a sign
A sign is a one-page, formatted sheet that readers can easily see from a distance. Use signs to advertise, post notices, mark rooms, and more. You can choose from a variety of predesigned signs or create an original one.
Adding borders, graphics, and watermarks can help make your sign more eye-catching. Using TextArt to reshape the message on your sign also adds interest and excitement. Be careful not to clutter or distort your sign too much because you want it to be easy to read.
Keep the message on a sign simple and easily readable from a distance. Choose a font and color that emphasizes the message and fits easily on the page but is large enough to be easily read. You may have to resize your text if the font size is too large to fit on the page.
Print your sign on stiff paper to give it more strength. If you are printing on colored paper, choose a text color that stands out from the background.
Adding text to a sign
Keep the message on a sign simple and easily readable from a distance. Choose a font and color that emphasize the message and fits easily on the page but is large enough to be easily read. You may have to resize your text if the font size is too large to fit on the page.
Decorating a sign
You can add borders, graphics, and watermarks to make your sign more eye-catching. Using TextArt to reshape the message on your sign also adds interest and excitement. Be careful not to clutter or distort your sign too much because you want it to be easy to read.
Printing a sign
You can print your sign on stiff paper to give it more strength. If you are printing on colored paper, choose a text color that stands out from the background.
Creating a memo
Use a memo when you want to send out a brief, informative message to members of your team or fellow employees at your company. Memos also serve as records of decisions, processes, and information.
Memos are less formal than letters and therefore have fewer mandatory parts. Be sure to include all necessary information in your memo and to write, edit, and check it very carefully. Memos may be less formal than letters, but it is still very important to communicate clearly.
Choose a look that fits the tone and style you want to convey with the memo. Try to keep your memos simple, straightforward, and easy to read. Choose a large enough font size so that your audience can read the memo at a glance.
When you finish designing the memo, check its spelling and grammar, and then print or email it. You can also save it as a QuickTask so that you can quickly create a similar memo in the future.
Here are a few suggestions for items you can include on your memo form:
Title-Memos often include the title "Memo" or "Memorandum." A title is optional.
To-Be sure to address the memo carefully to include everyone who has to know the information it contains. You can also address the memo to entire groups, such as "B-Team" or "Project Leads." If you have to send the memo to several people, use Merge to insert their names so that you do not have to retype the memo several times.
From-Give all necessary information, such as your full name, title, phone extension, and office number.
Subject line-Write a sentence that briefly states what the memo is about. You do not have to go into detail, but make sure the subject line is not too cryptic. The subject line tells the recipients what the memo is about and can also help you file it under the correct subject.
Date-Because a memo typically transmits timely information, it is important to include the date the memo was sent. You can type the date or automatically insert it as text or as a code that updates it every time you open, print, or save the memo.
Copy list-List the names of people besides the recipient who will receive the memo. If you have to send the memo to several people, use Merge to insert their names so that you do not have to retype the memo several times.
Message area-Give all the information your readers have to know, briefly and concisely. A memo is meant to remind, inform, and explain a particular situation, decision, or event. Do not give too much information, but make sure you cover the basics.
Reference information-At the end of the memo, include other necessary information. Reference information can include enclosure notices, initials, copy lists, filing instructions, and other codes your company uses to track or distribute memos.
Distribution list-If you are sending the memo to a large number of people and want to list them all, you can add a distribution list at the end of the memo. You may list names in alphabetical order or by rank.
Processing codes-If your company has a specific filing system in place, either electronic or paper copies, you can include any specific processing codes at the end of the memo.
Choosing a memo style
Choose a look that fits the tone and style you want to convey in the memo. Try to keep your memos simple, straightforward, and easy to read. Choose a large enough font size so that your audience can read the memo at a glance.
Selecting parts of a memo
Indicate what items you want to include on the memo form. Memos are generally one-page documents intended to convey information quickly and clearly. The best memo forms are clear, straightforward, and simple.
Adding a title to a memo
Memos often include the title "Memo" or "Memorandum." A title is optional.
Addressing a memo
Be sure to address the memo carefully to include everyone who has to know the information it contains. You can also address the memo to entire groups, such as "B-Team" or "Project Leads."
If you have to send the memo to several people, use Merge to insert their names so that you do not have to retype the memo several times.
Give all necessary information, such as your full name, title, phone extension, and office number to let people know who sent the memo.
Adding a subject line to a memo
Write a sentence that briefly states what the memo is about. You do not have to go into detail, but make sure the subject line is not too cryptic. The subject line tells the recipients what the memo is about and can also help you file it under the correct subject.
Adding a date to a memo
Because a memo typically transmits timely information, it is important to include the date it is written. You can type the date or automatically insert it as text or as a code that updates it every time you open, print, or save the memo.
Making copies of a memo
List the names of people besides the recipient who are receiving the memo. If you have to send the memo to several people, use Merge to insert their names so that you do not have to retype the memo several times.
Adding information to a memo
Give all the information your readers have to know, briefly and concisely. A memo is meant to remind, inform, and explain a particular situation, decision, or event. Do not give too much information, but make sure you cover the basics.
Adding reference information to a memo
At the end of the memo, include any extra information you need. Reference information can include enclosure notices, initials, copy lists, filing instructions, and other codes your company uses to track or distribute memos.
Adding a distribution list to a memo
If you are sending the memo to a large number of people and want to list them all, you can add a distribution list at the end of the memo. You may list names in alphabetical order or by rank.
Adding processing codes to a memo
If your company has a specific filing system in place, either electronic or paper copies, you can include any specific processing codes at the end of the memo.
Finishing a memo
Check the spelling and grammar in the memo, print it, or even save it as a QuickTask so you can quickly create a similar memo in the future.
Creating an agenda
An agenda is a list or plan of items you want to discuss in a meeting. Use an agenda to help you organize and conduct an efficient, successful meeting.
You can design an agenda that is easy to scan by leaving plenty of white space, grouping like items, and listing time, subject, and location information at the top of the sheet. Use a predefined agenda form, or create your own agenda using elements you choose.
Prior to the meeting, it is a good idea to send the agenda to potential attendees to give them time to prepare for discussions. List the discussion topics and information clearly so that attendees can begin at the same level. After the meeting, prepare notes, minutes, action items, attendance, and other information for the next meeting.
Always include the meeting title, date, times, and locations. It is also a good idea to include a list of discussion topics and presenters. You can include the following information in the agenda:
Company/organization name-Include the name of your company, organization, department, or whatever name best fits the meeting you are conducting.
Title of the meeting-Include the title of your meeting, such as "Promotions Team Meeting" or "Windstorm Project Review." The title should stand out from the agenda so that it is easily seen and read.
Date-Include the date that the meeting will occur. You can also insert a date code that shows the current date each time you open, print, or save the agenda file.
Start and end times-Include the time the meeting will begin and the time it will end. Be sure to start the meeting on time and end promptly.
Place-Include the location where the meeting will be held. The location may be a conference room, an office, or even a street address for an off-site meeting. Be sure to give all the directions necessary to help attendees arrive for the meeting on time.
Discussion topics-List topics that you want to discuss. You may want to add a paragraph after each topic explaining the background, pertinent facts, and considerations.
Goals-List the goals that you want to accomplish as a result of the meeting. Be very specific so that attendees know issues on which to focus.
Attendees-Leave a space to insert the names of those who attend the meeting. You will have to do this after the meeting or during the roll call.
Presenters-List the scheduled speakers or presenters and the topics of their speeches or presentations. You can also show the time allotted for each presenter.
Additional information-Add information such as arguments, other information related to discussion items, general announcements, and upcoming events. Format this section as a list or as a series of paragraphs.
Minutes of the last meeting-Put this item on the agenda if your organization has an officer read or enter the minutes of the last meeting. You can also add the name of the person who reads the minutes.
Action items from the last meeting-Have the attendees who were assigned action items report the progress they made and information they found since the last meeting. You can format this list with bullets or numbers.
Roll-call-Put this item on the agenda if your organization uses an official list of attendees. You can also add the name of the person who reads the roll-call.
Call-to-order-Put this item on the agenda if your organization uses an official start-of-meeting call. You can also add the name of the person who conducts this call.
Note space-Leave space for attendees to take notes at the bottom of the page.
Choosing an agenda style
You can use a predefined agenda form or create your own using elements you choose.
Adding graphics to an agenda
Design an agenda that is easy to scan by leaving plenty of white space, grouping like items, and listing time, subject, and location information at the top of the sheet.
Selecting an agenda
Always include the meeting title, the date, times, and locations. It is also a good idea to include a list of discussion topics and presenters.
Adding a company or organization name to an agenda
Include the name of your company, organization, department, or whatever name best fits the meeting you are conducting.
Adding a meeting title to an agenda
Include the title of your meeting, such as "Promotions Team Meeting" or "Windstorm Project Review." The title should stand out from the agenda so that it is easily seen and read.
Adding a date to an agenda
Include the date the meeting will take place. You can also insert a date code that shows the current date each time you open, print, or save the agenda file.
Adding the start and end times to an agenda
Include the time when the meeting begins and how long the meeting will go. Be sure to start the meeting on time and end promptly.
Adding a place to an agenda
Include the location where the meeting will be held. The location may be a conference room, an office, or even a street address for an off-site meeting. Be sure to give all the directions necessary to help attendees arrive for the meeting on time.
Adding discussion items to an agenda
Include a list of items you want to discuss in the meeting. You may want to add a paragraph after each one explaining the background, pertinent facts, and considerations.
Adding meeting goals to an agenda
Include a list of what you want to accomplish or cover in this meeting. Be very specific, so that everyone understands what issues to focus on.
Adding an attendees list to an agenda
Leave a space to fill in the names of those attending the meeting. You will have to do this after the meeting, or during the roll call.
Adding presenters and subjects to an agenda
You can include a list of the scheduled speakers or presenters for the meeting and the topic of each presentation. You can also show the time allotted for each presenter.
Adding additional information to an agenda
Include data, arguments, and other information related to discussion items, such as the presenters' speeches, the meeting goals, general announcements for the attendees, and upcoming events. Format this section as a list or as a series of paragraphs.
Adding the minutes of the last meeting to an agenda
Include the minutes of the last meeting in the agenda if your organization has an officer read or enter them. You can also add the name of the person reading the minutes.
Adding an action item report to an agenda
Include a list of action items from the last meeting. Have the attendees who were assigned action items report on the progress they made and information they found since the last meeting. You can format this list with bullets or numbers.
Adding a call-to-order to an agenda
Put this item onto the agenda if your organization uses an official start-of-meeting call. You can also add the name of the person who conducts this call.
Adding a roll-call to an agenda
Put a roll call on the agenda if your organization uses an official list of attendees. You can also add the name of the person who reads the roll-call.
Adding note space to an agenda
Leave space for attendees to take notes at the bottom of the page.
Finishing an agenda
Prior to the meeting, it is a good idea to send the meeting agenda to potential attendees to give them time to prepare for discussion. After the meeting, prepare notes, minutes, action items, attendance, and other information for the next meeting.
Creating a business plan
A business plan helps you organize all the information on your company, including its purpose, history, operations, marketing, and financial status. You must create a business plan to guide you in starting a new business, but it is also an excellent tool for reminding you of your goals, core competence, and strategy. Keep your business plan updated and refer to it frequently to help make your business a success.
Your business plan represents your company on paper. If you are starting a new business, your business plan makes the first impression on loan officers, possible contributors, and others whom you want to impress. Keep the layout professional, clear, and pleasing to the eye.
Carefully choose the sections you want in the business plan. Be sure to include information relevant to your business. Add other sections as required.
Once you have finished your business plan, make sure you proofread it carefully for formatting, spelling, and other factors. Since your business plan is the road map you want to follow to make your business a success, you should keep it confidential.
Adding a title page to a business plan
Include the name and address of your business, the title of the plan, the date, and the version number on the title page. Make the title distinct and easily read. You can also add your logo, a watermark, or other graphics image to add interest.
Adding a table of contents to a business plan
Include a table of contents page so that your readers can find the information for which they are looking. You must mark the headings you want to include in the table of contents before you can generate it.
For more information on creating a table of contents, see Generating and updating tables of contents in the online Help.
Adding a purpose statement to a business plan
State the purpose of your business. Briefly explain what products and services you intend to provide. include a list of your goals for the business, with measurable, definite outcomes. Explain how you will measure your progress on each goal.
Adding an executive summary to a business plan
Prepare a brief, concise overview of your business plan, including the company's name, location, history, management, products, and growth projections. Provide the name, address, phone number, fax number, and email address of a contact person inside your company.
Adding business information to a business plan
In this section of your business plan, provide an overview of your business. Include your company's name and location. Describe the building. State the nature of the business. Include the date the company will open for business. List the name of the owner and include contact information.
Adding a personal financial statement to a business plan
If you are starting a business, briefly explain your current finances. You may have to include the last three years' tax returns and a credit report.
If you are starting a business and have to borrow money, state how much capital you have, the amount of money you need to borrow, the collateral you can provide, how long you will need to repay the loan, the purpose of the loan, and the results of the loan.
Adding a description to a business plan
Give a detailed account of your business. List and explain the positive aspects of your business that will help you succeed.
List the hours of operation. Give a brief overview of how you foresee daily operations. Explain your accounting processes and quality-control systems. The types of information you include depend on the type of business.
If you are planning a manufacturing business, describe the processes, how efficiently or completely you use equipment, and what kinds of work your employees will do (for example, assembly line or single-piece work). Include a floor plan and layout of your offices and manufacturing plant. List the products you intend to produce, with a brief description of each.
If you are planning a retail business, project the volume of sales in your store. Explain how you use floor space, and include a floor plan. Describe the type of business (for example, outlet, boutique, or department store). Briefly review your inventory and stock-control systems.
If you are planning a wholesale business, list the suppliers and retailers you plan to work with and how you will work with them. Give the capacity and use of warehouse space and equipment. Include a floor plan and layout of the warehouse and offices. Explain your shipping and inventory control systems.
If you are planning a service business, explain what services you will provide and how you will provide them. Describe where your services are available and any restrictions. Include a map of the geographic area and tell how complete the coverage is. List any equipment (for example, vans, tools) you and your employees will use to provide the service.
If you are planning a construction business, list and describe the types of jobs you do. List and give a brief history on any subcontractors or companies with which you plan to be affiliated.
Adding a history to a business plan
If the business preexisted, provide a history. Who founded it and when? Why? Give the purchase or startup prices and reasons. Explain the market growth or sales trends that made this business possible.
Adding a personnel and organization overview to a business plan
Create an overview of the organization of your business. List your employees, their job descriptions, and their qualifications. You may want to include your employees' resumes. Explain your training and advancement programs. List departments and divisions, with responsibilities and number of employees in each one.
Adding marketing information to a business plan
This is a section of your business plan. Describe the market your business competes in and your strategy for competing. Provide this information in detail because it can help you keep your goals in mind as you proceed with your business.
Adding a market analysis to a business plan
Give concrete information on the market you intend to compete in, including current situations, trends, and projections.
Adding market research to a business plan
Explain the market research you have done for each product and service you intend to provide. Give and explain industry analysis, customer information, and market share.
Adding a list of competitors to a business plan
Give the names, locations, sales, and market share of your competitors in this market. List the competition's strengths and weaknesses. List your company's strengths and weaknesses, and the advantages your business has over the competition.
Describing market segments in a business plan
Describe the market segments in which you plan to compete. Give the demographics, geographical areas, and other information on the customers you want. Match your products' features to the customers' needs and wants.
Targeting a market in a business plan
State the primary market in which you want to compete. Give the demographics, geographical areas, and other information on the customers in that market. Describe and profile the establishments with which you want to conduct business.
Adding a marketing mix strategy to a business plan
Give a narrative description of how you intend to market your products. List the different marketing methods and how much you will rely on each one. List each product or service and how much you will market it. Include a data chart showing the percentages of each marketing method compared to the entire effort.
Listing products and services in a business plan
You can make a list of what you will sell. Describe customer service plans, market positioning, inventory control, and quality standards for each product or service.
Adding promotions to a business plan
Explain how you will promote your business. List the types of advertising you will use (for example, media, direct sales, sale promotions, and publicity campaigns). Include a few sample scripts for radio or television commercials, designs for print advertisements, and other materials that show how your planned promotions will look.
Planning distribution in a business plan
Explain how you plan to distribute your products or services. Will you use direct distribution? An established channel? Give facts about your business site (for example, location, parking, and security). Give a floor plan of your store or warehouse. Identify any resale outlets, retailers, wholesalers, or suppliers with which you plan to conduct business.
Establishing a pricing policy in a business plan
Explain your overall pricing policy. Estimate the average purchase amount. Describe sales terms and conditions. Explain any credit plans you intend to offer.
Listing suppliers in a business plan
List the name, location, product, amount, and agreements you have with each of your suppliers.
Adding marketing goals to a business plan
Give a list of your marketing goals for the business, with measurable, definite outcomes. Explain how you plan to measure your progress toward each goal.
Adding financial information to a business plan
This section of your business plan describes the financial aspects of your business, including start-up costs and loan use for beginning businesses, profits and losses, cash flow, and more. You should include a current balance sheet and other legal financial documents if necessary.
Borrowing money
If you are starting a business and giving this plan to a financial institution, be sure to include information on how you intend to use the borrowed funds, such as on equipment, inventory, salaries, rent, and facilities.
Establishing start-up costs
Explain the costs of starting the business. Give the amount of capital you put into the business and who provided it.
Adding a profit and loss statement to a business plan
Attach a detailed profit and loss statement. Explain sales, cost of goods, and operating expenses that contribute to profits and losses.
Adding a cash flow statement to a business plan
Attach a detailed statement of cash flow in any business accounts. Show the beginning balance, sources of income, expenditures, and ending balances.
Disclosing balance sheets in a business plan
Attach current balance sheets. Explain current assets, fixed assets, liabilities, and equity.
Establishing revenue versus costs
List fixed and variable expenses against your income. Analyze how much you have to make to cover your costs.
Adding financial predictions
Make financial predictions based on your company's current performance and your marketing and business plans for the future.
Listing assumptions in a business plan
Make a list and explain what you based your projections on (for example, economic and market trends, competitors' actions, and new products). Be sure to explain what you took for granted as you began your projections.
Establishing growth projections
Give areas of growth, estimates of the extent of growth, and factors influencing growth. List both internal growth (for example, personnel, divisions, and new products) and external growth (for example, new markets, increased sales, and geographic spread).
Adding financial projections to a business plan
Project your financial status for one to four years, including sales, income, debts, and expenses. You may want to break your projections down by market, product, and geographic area.
Adding appendices to a business plan
Attach any balance sheets, resumes, spreadsheets, and relevant information.
Creating an annual report
Publishing an annual report lets you tell your customers, employees, and investors about your business in the past year. It should be quite comprehensive, giving you a chance to discuss your history, goals, accomplishments, profits, expenditures, stock profile, and future plans. Create an attractive, informative annual report to summarize how your business performed. Be sure to include useful, interesting information and to choose an attractive, appropriate layout and format.
Your annual report represents you, your company, and your ideas to your stockholders. Keep the layout professional, clear, and pleasing to the eye. Some companies prefer more graphically intensive formats, while others produce more straightforward, simple documents. Add or delete formatting elements to best represent your company.
Carefully choose the sections you want to the annual report. Be sure to include information relevant to your idea, team, and project. Add other sections as required.
Once you have finished your annual report, make sure you proofread it carefully for formatting, spelling, and other factors. Be sure to print your annual report on high-quality paper with a laser printer, or have it printed by a professional printing service. If you want, you can also make a copy of your annual report in HTML format so that you can publish it on the World Wide Web.
Adding a cover to an annual report
Include the title, year, and company name, logo, motto, and slogan. Make the title distinct and easily readable. You can also add a watermark or other graphics image to add interest.
Adding a table of contents to an annual report
Include a table of contents page so that your readers can quickly find the information they want. You must mark entries for the table of contents before you can generate it.
Adding an executive summary to an annual report
Give a brief summary of your annual report, mentioning each point you plan to cover in the body of the document.
Adding a letter from the CEO to an annual report
Include a letter from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to the stockholders, employees, and customers. Include the CEO's name, title, and the date. The letter should contain a brief "pep-talk," an overview of policies, and references to the direction for the next year. Add a watermark of the company logo behind the letter to give it an official touch.
Adding a mission and vision statement to an annual report
Insert the mission and vision statement of your company. These statements give direction to your efforts and help define your identity as a business.
Describing your company in an annual report
Briefly describe your company. What do you do? Where are you located? How long have you been in business? What do you produce? What kinds of charity or public works are your company involved in?
Adding your company's history to an annual report
Provide information about who founded the company, where, how long ago, what it was founded to do, and how much it has grown or diversified since the beginning.
Adding your company's objectives for next year to an annual report
List and explain in detail your objectives and goals for the next year: what you will accomplish, how you will accomplish it, and when. Be sure to write definite, concrete, measurable goals and to include the criteria for judging whether you have met your goals.
Adding trends and opportunities to an annual report
List and explain the trends you see in the current marketplace and how you plan to take advantage of the opportunities they provide. Relate these trends and opportunities to your goals.
Adding your company's status to an annual report
Review the current status of the company. What are your strengths and weaknesses? How will you overcome your weaknesses? Who are your competitors and how are you doing compared to them? What market share do your products or services command? How will you improve that? What effects have market trends had on your company and your business?
Adding your company's management to an annual report
Give basic biographical information on the management team in your company. Include names, titles, and other relevant information. You can also include a scanned photograph of each person.
Adding your company's organization to an annual report
Explain your company's overall organization. Describe each department, section, or division in your company along with their responsibilities, purpose, and achievements.
Adding employee information to an annual report
Give a brief overview of your employees' achievements, responsibilities, and qualifications. You can highlight certain employees with short biographies to give your readers a sense of personal connection with the company.
Adding product information to an annual report
Describe the products and services your company provides. Explain how the older products did in the past, and highlight the new products your company has recently developed.
Adding territorial information to an annual report
Explain how your business has succeeded or failed in the different regions, states, territories, and countries in which your business competes. Note any new areas into which your business is expanding, or those from which you are withdrawing.
Adding stock performance information to an annual report
Review how well or poorly your stock performed in the last year. Include highs, lows, volume, and overall ratings.
Adding financial highlights to an annual report
Review your company's financial status, briefly including information on revenue, expense, equity, interest, assets, debts, and other important numbers. You may also attach a more detailed spreadsheet.
Adding balance sheets to an annual report
Attach the company's current balance sheets with explanations.
Creat ing a marketing plan
A marketing plan helps you organize all the information you have to carry out effective marketing efforts. It is also an excellent tool for reminding you of your goals, core competence, and strategy. Keep your marketing plan updated and refer to it frequently to help make your business a success.
Your marketing plan represents your marketing department on paper. Keep the layout professional, clear, and pleasing to the eye.
Carefully choose the sections you want in the marketing plan. Be sure to include information relevant to your business. Add other sections if you have to use them.
Once you have finished your marketing plan, make sure you proofread it carefully for formatting, spelling, and other factors. Since your marketing plan is the road map you want to follow to make your business a success, you should keep it confidential.
Creating a mission statement
State the mission of your business. Your mission statement defines your business, including the products you intend to manufacture and the services you intend to provide. Give direction for the marketing efforts your company makes. Your mission statement can also help outsiders understand your company's aims and purpose.
Creating an executive summary
Give a brief, concise overview of your marketing plan, including the company's history, management, products, and growth projections. Give the name, address, phone number, fax number, and email address of a contact person inside your company for your readers to contact if they have questions.
Creating a financial summary
Give an overview of your current financial situation. Include basic information on income, expenses, assets, debts, and sales. You may want to include a spreadsheet to show detailed data.
Creating financial projections
Project your financial status for one to four years, including sales, income, debts, and expenses. You may want to break your projections down by market, product, and geographic area.
Describing your company's current situation
Give a detailed account of your company's current situation and operations. Talk about market share, cost of goods, current marketing campaigns, research and development in the company, and any other information that you think will help to define the current situation.
Creating a market overview
Describe the market your company competes in and your strategy for competing. Complete this in detail, as it can help you keep your goals in mind as you proceed with your business.
Creating a market analysis
Give concrete information on the market you intend to compete in, such as its current situation, trends, and projections.
Researching the market
Explain the market research you have done for each product and service you intend to provide. Give and explain industry analysis, customer information, and market share.
Describing market segments
Describe the market segments in which you plan to compete. Give the demographics, geographical areas, and other information on the customers you want. Match your products' features to the customers' needs and wants.
Targeting your market
State the primary market in which you want to compete. Give the demographics, geographical areas, and other information on the customers in that market. Describe and profile the businesses to which you want to sell.
Listing your products and services
List the products and services you will sell. Describe customer service plans, market positioning, inventory control, and quality standards for each product or service.
Listing customer needs and wants
List the customer needs and wants that your products or services fill. Be very specific. You may discover that your products or services fill different needs than first expected. You will have to focus your marketing strategy tightly around the customers' ideas of what they need and want.
Listing your company's marketing strengths and weaknesses
List the marketing strengths and weaknesses of your business. Be very specific. Explain how you can capitalize on your strengths and overcome your weaknesses.
Listing your competitors
Give the names, locations, sales, and market share of your competitors in this market.
Listing your competitors' strengths and weaknesses
List the strengths and weaknesses of the competition. You may want to compare their list to yours and explain the advantages your business has over theirs. Be realistic.
Defining your market share
Give figures on your current market share in each market and for each product or service. Show overall market share to pinpoint your competitors' successes or failures. Show how the market share has increased or decreased over time and the reasons for the increase or decrease.
Listing your opportunities in the market
List and explain how the current trends in the market hold opportunities for your company. Outline how you plan to take advantage of the opportunities you see.
Explaining risks or threats in the market
Explain the threats (for example, competition, product saturation, and market shift) that you see in current market trends. Review the risks you see in the current market or in moving to another market. Outline how you plan to avoid the risks and overcome the threats.
Making assumptions about the market
Explain your own assumptions about the market and your marketing strategy. Why do you believe the market will respond a certain way? What do you assume will happen?
Establishing your marketing goals
Give a list of your marketing goals for the business, with measurable, definite outcomes. Take into account all the information you have discussed about your markets, customers, and trends. Explain how you will measure your progress toward each goal.
Creating a marketing strategy
Give a narrative description of how you intend to market your products. List the different marketing methods and how much you will rely on each one. List each product or service and how much you will market it.
Creating promotions
Explain how you will promote your business. List the types of advertising you plan to use (for example, media, direct sales, sale promotions, and publicity campaigns). Include sample scripts for television and radio ads, designs for print ads, and other materials to show how the promotions will look.
Creating a pricing policy
Explain your overall pricing policy. Estimate the average purchase amount. Describe sales terms and conditions. Explain any credit plans you intend to offer.
Implementing a strategy
Give a detailed explanation of how you will implement your strategy. List the steps you will take to actually set your strategy in motion and keep it on track.
Listing your personnel
List the individuals, groups, and departments who will implement your marketing strategy. Give definite responsibilities, and the names, phone numbers, and other contact information of each person in charge of a part of the plan.
Establishing a time line
Give a detailed time line showing what needs to be done to implement your strategy, when you will meet each objective, and other information you want to track (for example, sales and production).
Creating a budget
Give a detailed budget for your marketing efforts. Include all expenses, from payroll to production to promotional expenses. Project how much you need and, if possible, the source. Have a contingency plan to handle budget overruns.
Evaluating your marketing plan
Explain how you will judge the success or failure of the plan and when. Give definite criteria so that you can measure this marketing plan against them and make any necessary changes for next year's plan. These rules will help you not only evaluate your marketing plan, but help you continuously improve the plans you make in the future.
Creating a contingency plan
Explain the alternatives you can implement if the original plan becomes impossible. Although the contingency plans do not have to be as detailed and concrete as the main marketing plan, they should be definite enough for you to use if necessary.
Making a project proposal
When you propose a project, you must sell your idea to your audience. Prepare the proposal carefully, and make sure you include all the relevant information: what your project will cover, what its goals are, when it will be completed, what equipment you need, and how much it will cost. Emphasize the benefits of the project, and mention your own qualifications. When you print your proposal, it is important to produce a nicely formatted, professional-looking document.
Your project proposal represents you, your team, your ideas, and your project on paper. Keep the layout professional, clear, and pleasing to the eye.
Carefully choose the sections you want in the project proposal. Be sure to include the information relevant to your idea, team, and project. Add other sections as required.
Once you have finished your project proposal, make sure you proofread it carefully for formatting, spelling, and grammar. Be sure to print your proposal on high-quality paper. You should also make sure that your proposal conforms to any formatting or specifications you must follow.
Choosing what to include in a project proposal
Choose the parts you want in the project proposal. Be sure to include information relevant to your idea, team, and project. Add other sections if you have to use them.
Adding a title page to a project proposal
Include the title, your name, the date, hosting organization, locations, supervising agency, collaborators' names, and contact information.
Adding an executive summary to a project proposal
Give a brief summary of your proposal, mentioning the project, the need, the benefits, the objectives, and any other vital information.
Adding an abstract to a project proposal
Briefly explain the basics of the project, such as what you will do, why you will do it, and how you will carry it out.
Describing your project
Explain exactly what your project is in informative, general terms.
Adding background information to a project proposal
Give background information on this project, including: information on previous similar projects; the current issues, trends, and problems your project addresses; and any research you or others have done on the subject.
Explaining the project's motivation and need
Explain why you want to carry out this project. Give concrete facts, examples, and information to justify the time, effort, and expense of the project.
Explaining the project's benefits
Explain positive results of the project. What problems will the project solve? How will it benefit the company, organization, and community?
Establishing support for a project
Describe any local, community, government, or other support for the project. Explain the reasons for their support.
Establishing a project's objectives
Detail the goals of the project, explaining what the project will accomplish, how, and when. Be sure to write definite, concrete, measurable goals.
Measuring a project's success
List the criteria you will use to determine whether the project is a success or failure. Be sure to be specific about the evaluation method you will use.
Establishing a project's prerequisites
Explain what you must do, have, or discover before you can begin the project. What must occur for you to successfully complete the project?
Establishing a project's scope
Explain what the project will actually include and what it will not include. Give details, such as time frame, geographic area, populations, and sample sizes. Define your scope carefully to make sure you can meet the objectives.
Establishing methods to a project
Explain the process you will follow from the beginning to the end of the project. Describe the steps you will take and the techniques you will use. Include very specific information on both the steps and the techniques.
Establishing a project's deliverables
List and explain what the project will actually produce. Data, physical results, and written material are all deliverables.
Adding a schedule to a project proposal
Give a time line showing what will be done, who will do it, and when.
Organizing a project proposal
List and explain who will work on the project, what their responsibilities will be, who reports to whom, and positions you will have to fill.
Stating your personal qualifications in a project proposal
Explain why you should be the one to carry out this project. Include your qualifications (for example, academic qualifications, previous experience, and resources).
Adding biographical information to a project proposal
Give a biographical sketch of yourself and others participating in the project. Give names, qualifications, previous experience, specialties, and contributions.
Listing necessary equipment for a project
List and explain any equipment you require to carry out the project. Equipment can include lab space, computers, machines, and materials. Give exact specifications, such as names, models, and prices.
Adding a budget to a project proposal
Explain the cost of the project, how the funds will be spent, and where you will obtain the funds.
Establishing a project's economic return
Explain how the project will yield an economic profit for the sponsors. Be sure to discuss the reliability of the project. Is it a high risk or a guaranteed success?
Adding a bibliography to a project proposal
List the sources you researched to find information on the product, along with authors, titles, and other publication information.
Adding references to a project proposal
Include your personal references, with names, organizations, and contact information.
Adding a contract to a project proposal
Include a copy of the legal contract funding and approving your project.
Adding a payment and fee schedule to a project proposal
Include a schedule for fees and payments, including amounts, dates, and conditions.
Adding a summary to a project proposal
Summarize your proposal, covering the project description, need, scope, methods, deliverables, schedule, and other necessary information.
