How to create a simple business strategy
10 September 2026 · 7 min read
Strategy doesn't need a 40 page document. For most small businesses, a clear one page plan that is actually used beats a detailed one that sits in a drawer.
Start with where you are
Write down honestly what is working, what isn't, and what keeps you up at night. Look at where revenue and profit really come from — often a small number of services or customers.
Decide who you serve best
Which customers value what you do, pay fairly and are good to work with? Being clearer about this makes marketing, pricing and your website much easier.
Choose a small number of priorities
Pick two or three priorities for the next twelve months. For each, define what success looks like and how you will measure it.
Turn priorities into a 90 day plan
- What will be done in the next 90 days?
- Who is responsible?
- What will it cost in money and time?
Review regularly
Set a monthly check in. Look at the measures, adjust the plan and record decisions. The review habit matters more than the original document.
If you want an outside perspective, a short, structured engagement such as a business health check or strategy sprint can speed this process up.
General information only. It does not take into account your specific circumstances and is not financial, legal or tax advice.