STRATEGIC PLANNING
“Plan your work for today and every day, then work your plan”
– Margaret Thatcher
One of the key areas of focus for start-ups and pre-IPO companies is effective strategic planning, incorporating business strategy, execution plans, product strategy and product roadmap development as well as leadership development.
Having a strong multi-year strategy plan and supporting business plans will ensure that short-term decisions drive to your future goals and objectives. Effective overall product strategy and roadmaps will ensure that you are delivering solutions that support the needs of your customers and prospects. Recruiting and developing a strong leadership team will set a strong foundation for overall success, scalability and long-terms staff retention.
SOFTWARE SELECTION
“It’s hard to walk on shifting sand”
One area to keep your eyes on is your overall systems and supporting processes. Considering best practices side by side with practical cost control will serve you well. Informed software selection processes including request for quotes, request for proposals, vendor selection and good contract negotiates will help lay the groundwork for both short-term and long-term system needs.
A critical element of scalability is the selection and implementation of the right systems and processes to support your business today as well as into the future. While it may be cost-effective to select basic systems as you start your business, the timing of implementing solid, scalable systems and best practice processes in important.