[CDU eNews] - IT'S PLANNING, NOT SIZE, THAT MATTERS FOR SMALL BUSINESS

[Peter.Hurt at cdu.edu.au]

Size doesn't matter, but survival is vital for small business

Small businesses are a vital part of the Territory's economy. For many
people, setting up a business is a lifelong dream; a chance to forge their
way in the workplace and be their own boss.

But two out of three small businesses in Australia will not survive beyond
their second year. Their failure can be devastating personally and
professionally - and affect thousands of people.

The reasons can be complex - and, no wonder, because the ever-changing
landscape of the marketplace can be a minefield, says Peter Vincent of
Charles Darwin University.

"Effective planning is the key to long- term business success, and it is a
proven fact that enterprises using formal planning out-perform those that
do not. Not only will planning increase business performance but it will
improve survival chances of a faltering business," he says.

Mr Vincent, a VET Marketing lecturer and coordinator, is launching an
intensive short course in marketing and business management, designed for
people wishing to learn business planning skills in a practical,
easy-to-understand way.

"This course is not only for those going into business for the first time,
but also for existing owners and operators.

"It will help improve the skills of small business operators, delivering
professional skills to enable them to compete in the increasingly
competitive local, national and global markets. It's about planning. To
simply survive, let alone succeed, the key ingredient is effective
planning."

The course will run for six Saturday sessions from May 21 to June 25 at
the School of Law and Business on the Casuarina campus.

Further details from Mr Vincent on 8946 6065.



Peter Vincent is available for interview


Peter Hurt
Media Manager
Charles Darwin University
Tel: 08 8946 6019 or 0438 466 439

CRICOS Provider No: 00300K