If you can access the internet, you can find hundreds if not thousands of business plan writing services. But beware, not all are created equal, and with no barriers to entry, standards can vary widely. You should always evaluate several services before making a choice. Here are 5 important questions to ask before choosing a business plan writing company.

1. What is the final price and what does that price include?

Most business plan writers and companies will provide a range of business plans, from a short plan under 10 pages to a comprehensive plan that can be 50 pages or more. Be sure you understand the price of the project, whether it is a project fee or an hourly rate, and ask for details about what this includes in terms of page count and sections or expected time requirements. Discuss ahead of time approximately how long it will take to complete, what will be required of you, and what the process will be like.

2. What is your company’s background and credentials?

A great business plan needs more than great writing – it requires an understanding of business, finance, and accounting. May of the best business plan writing companies and writers have helped start their own companies, and / or come with significant background in one or more of the following areas: business development, private equity / venture capital, public capital markets, finance and accounting, entrepreneurship, and small business banking.

3. Can I see sample business plans?

Legitimate business plan writing companies will be more than happy to show you samples of their work. You should request to see samples of business plans for companies in your industry or that have similar business models. If allowed, discuss these samples with trusted advisors, such as accountants and lawyers, to make sure they can hold up to scrutiny.

4. Have your business plans attracted financing?

While not all business plans are created to solicit financing, this is an important question if you are seeking a loan or private equity capital. A reputable business plan company will be willing to discuss your chances of attaining funding, and their ability to create a plan that will put you in a position to get capital.

5. Can you provide references and testimonials?

Nothing speaks more powerfully than a positive endorsement from a past client. Read testimonials written directly by clients on LinkedIn or other review sites. Or, don’t be afraid to ask each of the business plan writing companies you are considering if you can speak with a previous client. Make sure to do a thorough internet search of all the business plan writing services on your list to find any complaints, and check BBB ratings.

There are many questions you should ask of the business plan writing services on your list. These 5 questions should be enough to get you started on interviewing and vetting a series of business plan companies. The aim is to help you make the right decision before you hire. Remember to take your time with this important decision, and follow your instincts.

Laurie DeSalvo has written business plans for startup and early stage growth companies, and previously worked in the capital markets. She writes articles and provides advice on how to develop a business plan and business plan writing services, among other topics.

Laurie DeSalvo has written business plans for startup and early stage growth companies, and previously worked in the capital markets. She writes articles and provides advice on how to develop a business plan on her blog at http://www.5stepbusinessplanning.com.

Author Bio: Laurie DeSalvo has written business plans for startup and early stage growth companies, and previously worked in the capital markets. She writes articles and provides advice on how to develop a business plan and business plan writing services, among other topics.

Category: Business
Keywords: business plan writing services, how to develop a business plan