The implementation schedule should outline all the activities required to implement the proposals set out in other sections of the business plan.

Key elements

The schedule should be internally consistent and coordinated with the financial projections and requests for finance (Section VIII). Typical factors should include timings for:

• obtaining finance;
• capital expenditure programme;
• staff recruitment;
• testing;
• production;
• marketing; and
• selling.

A timetable should indicate expected completion dates and milestones.

Decision points in the company's growth should be identified where the choice may be made to commit further funds.