Speaking to Daniel Janet is trying to outline the main features of a business plan.
DANIEL: You see, I need your advice. I am going to start up a new business and so I need to raise some money.
JANET: In this case you must produce a written business plan.
DANIEL: Is it really so important?
JANET: Look, without a plan you will not be able to persuade anyone to lend or invest enough money in your business. In your plan, you must show that the lender or investor stands a good chance of being paid back or getting a good return on the investment.
DANIEL: But what kind of information will do the trick?
JANET: If your plan is intended to raise money, your figures must achieve a balance between optimism and realism to persuade banks and others that your business will be successful and worthy of a loan or an investment.
DANIEL: I am not very keen on figures and charts and it all seems very complicated.
JANET: It is very important for your plan to look professional, so you must consider seeking advice and help on its production from accountants who can help you prepare the figures and corporate finance specialists who are mainly interested in helping you raise substantial sums of money from venture capital sources.
DANIEL: Maybe you will help me with the financial part of my business plan. By the way, what does it consist of?
SAMUEL: Well, the financial analysis must include a summary of the forecasts, monthly profit and loss forecast for two years, monthly cash flow forecast for two years, forecast balance sheet for two years, the assumptions behind your forecasts, the principal risks which could affect figures.
DANIEL: Oh my, I give up.
JANET: But I have not finished yet. You must outline your short-term and long-term objectives, the finance needed and what it is needed for shareholders' information, prospects for the investor or lender, including the possible value of business if floated on the stock market, so investors will be able to cash in their investment.
DANIEL: You were trying to talk me into starting a business but as a matter of fact you talked me out of doing it. The saying goes 'Look before you leap'. I did and I won't leap.