LAUNCHING NEW VENTURES

In Launching New Ventures, Allen prepares students to spearhead new initiatives—paying special attention to the process and activities required before a start-up can open for business. A conversational approach engages and encourages students to rely on this text as more than just a reference book. Real-world case studies, new venture checklists, plus Allen's own firsthand experience guide students through the logical process of recognizing an opportunity, testing a business concept, and implementing a formal business plan. Stressing the early stages of the process, Allen outlines the importance of completing a feasibility analysis prior to developing a business plan—unlike other texts that focus immediately on business plans. The Third Edition covers change management, deal structure, database and guerrilla marketing, emerging business models, and business failure. Internet Resources, an annotated list of URLs at the end of each chapter, refer students to relevant web sites for more information on chapter concepts. Hands-on tools appear at appropriate points throughout, such as outlines for a feasibility plan, a business plan, and an operational plan—plus a 20-point test to verify the status of independent contractors, an incorporation checklist, and a new products checklist.