Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write about the franchising, restaurant and food services industry. An executive summary is a short but powerful document that ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Melissa Houston covers financial issues that affect women in business. Businesses that use a formal business plan are 30% more ...

Why Is a Business Plan Important? Starting a business without a plan is akin to embarking on an arduous journey without a map or compass. Here are the key ways a business plan will help your company ...

You’re set on becoming a franchisee. You may think it’s time to call a franchisor, tell them you’re interested, and get funding from your local bank, right? Wrong. If you’re considering buying a ...

Matt Webber is an experienced personal finance writer, researcher, and editor. He has published widely on personal finance, marketing, and the impact of technology on contemporary arts and culture.

WSJ | Buy Side is The Wall Street Journal’s research and commerce team. Our commerce content is distinct from our newsroom coverage. We earn a commission from some links in our articles. Learn more. A ...