Market Planning Checklist

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Before you launch a marketing campaign, answer the following questions about your business and your product or service.

• Have you analyzed the total market for your product or service? Do you know which features of your product or service will appeal to different market segments?
• In forming your marketing message, have you described how your product or service will benefit your clients?
• Have you prepared a pricing schedule? What kinds of discounts do you offer, and to whom do you offer them?
• Have you prepared a sales forecast?
• Which media will you use in your marketing campaign?
• Do your marketing materials mention any optional accessories or added services that consumers might want to purchase?
• If you offer a product, have you prepared clear operating-and-assembly instructions if required? What kind of warranty do you provide? What type of customer service or support do you offer after the sale?
• Do you have product liability insurance?
• Is your packaging likely to appeal to your target market?
• If your product is one you can patent, have you done so?
• How will you distribute your product?

From Start Your Own Business: The Only Start-Up Book You'll Ever Need, by Rieva Lesonsky and the staff of Entrepreneur Magazine (Entrepreneur Press)