Long-term business plan software is often needed in the complex modern business world. While not every company requires professional planning software, many do; and even those who don't would probably simplify life by using it. As you try to determine whether or not you need long-term planning software for your company, remember that your business plan is one of the most important documents your company will ever produce.

The best long-term business planning software programs guide the business owner through the planning process step by step, helping you create a long-term business plan that's professional and thorough and, just as importantly, anticipates and provides for the future needs of a growing company. Some critical components of a good business plan follow:

1. Description of the business, including an executive summary;

2. Marketing plan analyzing the competition and describing your product;

3. Financial data, including several specific statements and future income projections; and

4. Management section, including executive bios.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out whether you need a business plan and, if so, whether business planning software would help

Numerous websites provide information and guidance that can help you assess your company's need for long-term planning software.

I recommend: AmericanExpress answers some frequently asked questions about business plans on its "Open for Business" page. Internet.com also provides in-depth info on who needs a business plan, when, and which specific tools would help you write or perfect yours.

Check out available long-term business planning software solutions

The top-selling business planning and development software can be the best place to start if you'd like to develop a basis for comparing the features offered by other, similar software products. This will help facilitate a more effective price-to-features ratio, which can help you stay within your budget, while getting the most features for your money.

I recommend: PaloAltoSoftware, creator of the Business Plan Pro business planning software program, provides an overview and tour of its software, along with a sample business plan. (You'll find an easier-to-read sample business plan, also made with Business Plan Pro, at MoreBusiness.com, which also sells the program.) JIAN offers BizPlanBuilder, another best-selling long-term business plan application and Business Plan Pro's number 1 competitor. Many business people strongly prefer one or the other, so you'll have to compare the two and decide which one fits your own needs. PlanWrite business planning software from Business Resource Software, Inc. provides a third choice. For those who prefer a word-processor format, PlanMagic Corporation offers its PlanMagic Business program, which provides a BP guide and templates designed for use with MS-Word.

Look for other helpful long-term planning software tools and resources

Many other long-term business planning solutions can help you develop a plan that will effectively launch your company into a brighter financial future. Along with various long-term business planning software choices, many other tools are available, such as webcasts, white papers, business planning guidelines, financial calculators and more.

I recommend: Business Insight marketing strategy software, from brs, joins the list of long-term business planning solutions that can prove helpful to your company. PaloAltoSoftware also offers other software and resources for your business planning needs. To round out the mix of available business planning software and resources, TechRepublic offers webcasts, software programs, and other helpful tools.

Consider freeware, if your company is very small and start-up capital is limited

If you simply can't afford the mainstream long-term planning software solutions, freeware can be a great way to get many of the same benefits without the large price tag.

I recommend: DIY BIZ PLAN offers free planning software, as well as a helpful section containing planning software reviews. This feature allows you to compare various long-term business planning software applications with one another, as well as with the freeware versions, to see which one will provide the best value for your company.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of long-term planning software demos, tours, or free-trial downloads to get a better idea what each individual program can do for your company. If your start-up budget is tight, consider using freeware; but remember this : an investment in good long-term planning software will continue to pay dividends for your company for many years to come.