Self-Assessment Checklist; Are YOU ready?

Tuesday December 23rd, 2003

Printer Friendly    Email This Page

In order to have a successful enterprise, you should address a number of topics. Many of these items will be incorporated into your business plan, so consider the use of this list as a preparation for business and market planning. In each of these topic areas, determine which apply to your enterprise and then address those issues.

There basic steps in starting a business that can make a positive impact. It is best to start by asking and answering critical questions pertaining to you, the business owner and your business concept.

General

	Have you determined what products and services you are going to offer?
	Have you determined that a market exists for your offerings and is accessible to your selected location?
	Have you determined if there are any names, logos, or other intellectual property that must be covered through patent or trademark registration?
	What is the legal form of the business? (proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company)?
	Have you registered your business name?
	Have you determined a formation for your business (i.e. sole proprietership, partnership, S-Corporation, C-Corporation, Limited Liability Company, etc.).
	If you have chosen your business to be a corporation, have you filed a Certificate of Incorporation?
	Have you addressed, if necessary, a Partnership Agreement or Limited Liability Company Article Of Organization?
	Have you researched local, county, and state license and permit requirements?
	Have you selected a physical site for your business?
	Have you addressed local zoning regulations to see if your business conforms or if you will need to seek a variance?
	Have you researched Federal, state and local regulatory agencies to determine what you need to address?
	Have you determined your insurance requirements?