For best effect a good business plan needs to be both sustainable and flexible. We find businesses that adhere to this criteria produce the best results for the stakeholders in the long run.

That being said, flexibility is not the only foundation on which to build a winning business plan. It needs to be an ongoing, creative process that deserves constant nurturing, adjusting and general attention.

Revisiting your business plan at least on an annual basis will allow you to make the adjustments necessary to stay on course to achieving your vision.

There are generally four key areas to examine when filling the gaps:

1. Services / Products: Take note of customer feedback and remember to touch base with your long-term and most profitable customers to identify what they see as the key advantages of what you have to offer.
   
   
2. Industry / Competition: Reviewing the changes made in your industry and assessing the strengths and weakness of your competitors can help you bolster your plan of attack. Work on building up your specific strengths and incorporate differentiators into your plan.
   
   
3. Marketing / Sales: This is an area that should be under constant scrutiny. If something is not working, make a change. Don't spend the money unless you can track the results.
   
   
4. Finances: Take a long hard look at the actual numbers. Are you reaching your financial goals? Where can you make the small changes that will bring about the best results?

Remember, we are here to help and have a tried and tested system to help you get the best results from this process.

But once you have evaluated these areas, there should be obvious changes needed to be implemented to your original plan. Rework it and make sure your team members are aware of any changes that require their contribution in order to achieve your desired goals.

As you tackle each section we suggest you follow these guidelines:

1. Focus. Narrow the scope, zoom in and then look at the bigger picture.
   
   
2. Observe. Take in your surroundings and apply accordingly.
   
   
3. Resolve. If it is not broken, don't fix it. Stick to putting energy into creating solutions for the problem areas.
   
   
4. Compute. Break out the calculator folks, this is all about equations.

Many experts comment on the importance of creating a "living document" when it comes to your business plan - one that never remains stagnant and is, in fact, always evolving. This is how you as the business owner remain accountable and stay on track.