How to Write the Operations Plan
The operations plan delves into the nuts and bolts of putting your company’s vision into action. It summarizes your approach to routine—but critical—matters ranging from inventory tracking and equipment maintenance to payroll administration and customer service. However, it does not outline every step of the internal processes that govern these daily operations. Though this section tends to be longer for complex manufacturing operations, retail and service companies should map out their operations as well.
Table of Contents
Typical Operations Plan Content
- Facilities overview
- Production process descriptions
- Equipment and technology overview
- Inventory management plan
- Customer service policies
- Quality control
- Cost controls and purchasing procedures
What You Need to Get Started
- Production flow charts
- Operations manuals
- Employee training manuals
- Staffing plans
- Organizational structure
- Customer service and order fulfillment policies
Operations Plan Tips
- Think linearly: Keep your operations plan easy to follow by breaking the section into major tasks. For each task, describe what it is, who completes it, and any other critical details.
- Don’t tell all: Remember that this is not the space to recount all of the technical details and procedures related to the production and distribution of your goods. Limit your discussion to framing operations issues that are most critical to business success.
- Ask around: Check with commercial real estate agents in your area for a view of your location’s resources. Also consult trade journals for the latest plant design ideas and local consultants who can help you craft a vision for this part of your plan.