For most businesses, the start of the fourth quarter is here. That means it is a good time for owners to reflect on the past, and plan for the future.

All businesses – large and small – are at their essential core a collection of processes and systems. The primary ones being: Sales, people, accounting and finance, and operations. And, although we may not think of them as systems, strategy and leadership.

The five questions owners should ask now all go to improving a businesses’ processes. Approaching this diligently can produce healthy, stronger enterprises: Businesses that can withstand whatever curve balls the economy, competition, or changes in technology and trends throw their way.

So, here we go.  Continue reading....