SERVICES
Business Planning

Have changing markets, lack of consensus regarding strategic direction and allocation of resources or outdated business models ever sidetracked your company's growth plans? A formalized approach to business planning can yield a more complete picture of operating and financial performance—and reveal new avenues for growth. The result? Breakthrough performance and improved shareholder value for companies, and stronger equity portfolios for venture funds.

Fort Dearborn Partners understands the forces at play in the business planning process. To create a solid foundation for analysis, we help management teams collect and utilize all the information necessary to gain a clear and accurate understanding of the business. And because business planning is a collaborative process, we work to create an environment that encourages the open exchange of ideas and candid discussion of the company's true strengths and weaknesses.

In our role as independent counsel, we bring creative ideas to the forefront as we lead your management team through the following proven process:

Understand the direction and desires of owners;
Candidly assess the business and its markets;
Evaluate market opportunities;
Establish a performance benchmark by collecting public and non-public data on competitors and the industry;
Honestly evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of products, services and functions;
Gain consensus on the company's mission and key operating strategies;
Conduct a thorough financial analysis;
Coordinate a strategic planning session with key management;
Develop a comprehensive business plan;
Allocate resources and develop operating parameters.

As the plan takes shape, we can provide implementation support as necessary—everything from building internal consensus to fine-tuning the plan and monitoring its' success. Our goal - and yours - is always to help your company optimize its' strengths and create long-term shareholder value.