Great business models depend on developing three “green lights,” or qualities that help the business succeed: finding high-value customers, offering significant value to customers, and delivering significant margins. Great business models also avoid three “red lights” that can derail a business: difficulties in satisfying customers, trouble maintaining market position, and problems generating funding for growth. The list below outlines key factors in determining whether your model meets each green light and avoids the red lights. Examine your own business to see if you meet the criteria for success and, more importantly, to correct any weaknesses you might have.
Green Lights
1. Acquire high-value customers.
High-value customers doesn’t mean rich customers, but customers who meet the following requirements:
- Are easy to locate
- Allow you to charge a profitable price
- Are willing to try your product after minimal marketing expenses
- Can generate enough business to meet your sales and profit objectives
Customers don’t necessarily need to be the end users of your product or service. They could be retailers, distributors, catalogs or whomever you sell your product or service to. If your end users or distributors don’t fit this profile, you can still meet this requirement by attracting high-value customers through partnerships or alliances with companies in the market. Read more »