A business is well defined by the dictionary as a commercial enterprise or organization conducted for profit. Businesses can either be sole proprietorships, partnership enterprises, joint ventures, or corporations organized for the purpose of business. The activities performed by business enterprises include the production of tangible assets, services, and liabilities for the operation and management of business. A business also includes its ownership structure and relationships with customers, suppliers, and other individuals and institutions. The term also encompasses activities of a business such as marketing, financial management, and administration.
A business concept consists of five basic operational areas: capital investment and financing, sales and marketing, human resources, and operations and development. Capital investments and financing refer to the investments in property and equipment used to conduct business. Sales and marketing refer to the methods used to promote products and services and to acquire customers. Human resources deal with issues related to the employees of a business, including training, recruitment, performance reviews, compensation, and health and safety issues. Operations and development deals with strategic planning, management policies, and strategies for organizational growth and development.
One of the most important aspects of a business structure is business strategy. Business strategy is a blueprint for the successful operation of a business. It lays down rules or instructions on how a business should be conducted and the manner in which profits are to be earned. There are different types of strategies – business plans, business models, competitive layouts, and market structures. Some of these strategies are designed to minimize risks while others are designed to maximize profits.
In order to successfully implement a business strategy, businesses must develop and employ their creative skills. This includes the design and creation of logos, marketing campaigns, advertising strategies, and the distribution of brochures and pamphlets. Creative skills require the use of various tools and devices such as computers, logos, and illustrations. Business owners must also be aware of current events that could affect their business. For example, individuals working at companies that manufacture and/or operate pharmaceuticals must be aware of the legal actions that can be taken against them if they are found to have provided assistance to individuals working under this cause.
Most businesses have legal structures – for instance, partnerships, limited liability companies, corporations, and sole proprietorships. These types of business structures are established to protect both the individual entrepreneurs and the establishments from lawsuits. Aside from the legal structure, businesses must also determine their goals and the ways to realize those goals.
Business owners may decide to establish partnerships with other businesses that share similar characteristics. Examples of these partnerships are limited liability partnerships, which allows businessmen to take part in the profits and losses of another company while avoiding being personally liable for the same. Limited liability partnerships are also better known as LSI, and it enables the partners to avoid joint and several liability. Another advantage of forming a partnership is that it can help businessmen save on taxes. Other advantages of partnerships include better management and less risk of financial failure.
