Question

Explain with examples, the process of screening and evaluating new venture opportunities.

Answer 1

Self-Analysis
According to the Arkansas Small Business Development Center, most small businesses fail because of poor management and the owner’s inability to manage resources. Before you even start researching the feasibility of your idea and the market you plan on entering, evaluate your own talents, desires and goals. Consider your willingness to take risks as well as the amount of time and energy you’ll need to make the business a success. Review your financial, personnel and marketing skills as well to ensure you have the necessary background to make a success of your new venture.

Financial Components
After learning about the investment required to purchase the existing business or franchise or the start-up costs you’ll need initially, evaluate your own resources. Part of a financial assessment includes the amount you have in personal savings to add to the initial investment. Banks typically require entrepreneurs to come up with a portion of the investment to show good faith and willingness to take a risk with the lender. Assess the financing available through the seller, investors and lenders when evaluating your chances of succeeding.

Market Research
To thoroughly understand what you’re getting into, perform an extensive market research project to determine the feasibility of your business. In addition to gleaning statistics of trends and current customer buying patterns, you need to know who your customers are, where they are located and what kind of competition exists in your area. Consider market research your first steps in opportunity analysis that help you understand exactly how you will sell products or services to a specific market.

Support
Finally, evaluate the amount of support you expect to receive from your family and the community.