Your operations plan describes how you will deliver value to your customer. As a result, it is closely linked to your marketing plan. For example, if quality is one of the attributes you are bringing to the marketplace, the operations plan is where you will create this attribute. Or if product service is your hallmark, the operations plan is where you deliver service. Because most of your employees and capital will be focused on operations, it is an important section.

1. Description of operations

• Outline the operations activities of your business.

• What activities will be conducted in-house and which will be outsourced (make or buy decisions).

• Describe your relationship with venders, suppliers, others.

• Are there any contracts or letters of intent in place?

• Describe how operations will meet the needs of the customers in your target market.

• Specify how operations will deliver dimensions such as quality, cost, timeliness, service, flexibility, etc.

• If your operations plan gives you a competitive advantage, describe it.

• Describe the operating costs and assumptions that will be used in the financial section.  

2. Determine facility needs

• Describe the general design and technical requirements.

• Determine the size and type of production facilities.

• Assess the need for related buildings, equipment, rolling-stock, etc.

3. Suitability of production technology

• Determine reliability and competitiveness of technology (proven or unproven, state-of-the-art, etc.).
• Outline how you chose your technology providers.
• Describe limitations or constraints of the technology.

More information is available on Operations.

More information is available on Supply Chains.

More information is available on Bookkeeping/Accounting.