No two cities do things precisely the same way, but Barbara Millard, who teaches entrepreneurship at Johnson County Community College, has some basic “rules of the road” for business owners who are taking their first steps into City Hall.  Start with the Web // Most cities have websites, and they’re a great place to research general information about permits, licenses and other regulations. The key phrase is general information. That’s why it’s…
Is your organization fit enough to win? We’ve all seen the footage of the unfortunate gazelle falling prey to the lion. That gazelle is the one unable to outrun the cat due to its health or fitness level. While this is not a pleasant sight to behold, it is an example from which leaders should learn. Whether we’re talking about a partnership of two or a corporation of 200,000, even…
Building a “business road map” can help you get more from your banker and your business.Small businesses often overlook the importance of preparing an annual budget and business plan. Not only can these tools establish the groundwork for success, but creating them is an excellent way for business owners to have a meaningful conversation with their banker. The start of a new year is the perfect time to undertake this…
Keep innovative products and services in the pipeline to avoid obsolescence.Small companies seem to fall into one of two problematic groups when it comes to new product development: either they are too optimistic and aggressive, launching their organizations on what often amount to wild goose chases, or they tend to ride their existing product lines into the ground, being unwilling or unable to make the investments necessary to expand through…