5 Ways to Evaluate the Strength of Your Business Plan
Does your plan have legs?
Many business owners have big goals but forget that those goals need a clear, structured plan behind them. A strong plan isn't just about what you're doing today—it's about where you're headed and how you're getting there.
So, does your plan have legs? Let’s walk through five ways to evaluate the strength of your business plan.
- Strategic or Tactical? Know the Purpose
Start by asking yourself: Is my plan strategic or tactical?
A strategic plan focuses on the long term—typically 5 to 10 years. It defines your overall vision and direction. A tactical plan, on the other hand, focuses on the short term—usually 6 to 12 months—and outlines specific actions and steps.
Ideally, your short-term plans should support your long-term vision.
- Are There Milestones Along the Way?
Strong plans include key milestones that measure progress. Without these, it’s hard to tell if you’re moving forward—or just staying busy.
Milestones help you stay on track and adjust when needed. Whether it’s a revenue goal, a new product launch, or team expansion, every plan should include clear checkpoints.
- Does It Align With Your Personal Goals?
Your business plan should support the life you want to live. If it pulls you away from your values or personal goals, it may need rethinking.
Take a step back and ask: Is this business helping me get closer to the bigger picture I want for myself—personally and professionally?
- Do You Review and Adjust Regularly?
A business plan isn’t something you write once and forget about.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have a long-term plan—and how often do I review it?
- Do I have a short-term action plan that supports it?
- Am I reviewing and adjusting my plan on a regular basis?
Plans should be living documents, not static reports.
- Is There Accountability and Follow-Through?
Every solid plan includes a system to track progress, hold people accountable, and address non-performance.
- Is your plan visible? Who on your team is involved in creating and supporting it?
- What metrics are you using to monitor progress?
- Who is responsible for delivering results? And do they know what changes they need to make to achieve them?
- Are there consequences when goals aren’t met?
Accountability ensures that plans don’t just exist on paper—they drive real action.
Final Thoughts
If your plan is short-term and tactical right now, that’s a great place to begin. But to grow a sustainable, successful business, you need a strategic vision and a clear roadmap.
Looking to bring more structure and clarity to your business planning?
As a CPA firm that specializes in helping business owners align their goals with actionable plans, we can help you build a plan that not only has legs—but also moves your wine business forward.