Simon Blake writes:
As the 18th century American philosopher, Wayne Burgraff is credited with saying: "It takes one hour of preparation for each minute of presentation time." While possibly a useful guide, the actual content and format of the presentation is arguably more important than the time taken.
The objective of a good presentation is to provide detailed, but digestible information that enables potential investors to make an informed decision as to whether the monies they would potentially invest will deliver the level of returns required. Key factors to consider include:
- What are the sector/industry drivers? A view of the outside influences on the potential growth of the market, combined with fact-based forecasts, will give an indication of future revenues.
- What are the growth prospects for the business? Closely allied to the above, but providing a specific focus on how prepared the business is to take advantage of the growing market into the future.
- What is the business’ USP? How does the business differentiate itself from other players in its market? An outline of particular skills or services which will enable it to succeed above the competition?
- How strong is the management infrastructure? Good management skills, experience and processes will ensure the business operates efficiently to underpin potential growth.
- The value of a strong brand should not be overlooked either. How well are the company’s brand assets being promoted, protected and if necessary enhanced? Linked to this should be a strong web-presence, social media, patents, and other intellectual property protection.
Think About Your Audience
Having gathered the relevant information and data to be presented the next decision is, in what format should it be presented? Are you likely to be talking to people face to face who will make their own entrepreneurial decisions without reference to detailed financial or commercial business plans? If so, Prezi or PowerPoint slide decks will give you the most impact. If on the other hand you are presenting indirectly or to advisors, then it will be vital to also have a detailed written plan, which tends to be best dealt with through Word, but should still be careful not to bore the reader with too much text! Lots of tables and graphs and evidential support is powerful, albeit a short executive summary is always vital to ensure the reader gets enough interest in the first five minutes, otherwise he’ll never get to the detail.
The format and structure of the business plan/investment proposal should ultimately be determined by the target investment audience as well as the stage of investment being sought. Factors include:
- The audience and their needs
- The sector (tech sector may be more familiar with PowerPoint or Prezi vs public sector)
- The product or service offering (would it benefit from animation or video?)
- The stage of the business cycle (pre vs post revenue)
- The type of investment being sought (start-up or early stage funding vs acquisition)
The Price Bailey Strategic Corporate Finance team has amassed many years experience working closely with owner-managed businesses and small to medium-sized entities assisting with growth aspirations, strategic planning, funding, mergers and acquisitions and exit strategies.
If you would like to know more about how we can help with your business plans, please get in touch.