Business Plan

Executive Summary

This business plan outlines the establishment of "Online Reference Workshops," a virtual platform dedicated to enhancing research skills for students and educators. Our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality workshops that empower learners to effectively use reference sources.

Business Objectives

• To develop a comprehensive curriculum for research skills.
• To achieve a minimum of 1,000 active users within the first year.
• To establish partnerships with educational institutions.
• To generate a sustainable revenue model through workshop fees and subscriptions.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview

The demand for online education has surged, particularly in skills development. The global online education market is projected to grow significantly, driven by the increasing need for remote learning solutions.

Target Market

• Students from high schools and universities.
• Educators looking to enhance their teaching methods.
• Educational institutions seeking professional development resources.

Market Trends

• Growth in online learning platforms.
• Increased focus on research skills in education.
• Demand for flexible learning options.

Marketing Strategy

Brand Positioning

Position "Online Reference Workshops" as a leading provider of research skills education, focusing on accessibility and quality.

Marketing Channels

• Social Media Marketing (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).
• Email Marketing Campaigns.
• Partnerships with educational institutions.
• Webinars and free introductory workshops.

Promotional Strategies

Promotion Type	Details	Timeline
Social Media Ads	Targeted ads to students and educators.	Ongoing
Free Workshops	Offer free introductory sessions.	Quarterly
Affiliate Programs	Partner with educators for referrals.	Year 1

Operations Plan

Workshop Development

Workshops will be developed by subject matter experts and will include interactive elements such as quizzes and real-time feedback.

Technology Requirements

• Learning Management System (LMS) for hosting workshops.
• Video conferencing tools for live sessions.
• Website for marketing and user interaction.

Staffing

Position	Responsibilities	Number of Employees
Content Developer	Create workshop materials.	2
Marketing Specialist	Manage promotions and outreach.	1
Technical Support	Provide IT support and maintenance.	1

Financial Plan

Revenue Streams

• Workshop fees.
• Subscription models for ongoing access.
• Corporate training packages for educational institutions.

Projected Expenses

Expense Type	Estimated Cost	Frequency
Technology Costs	$3,000	Annual
Marketing Expenses	$1,500	Monthly
Staff Salaries	$60,000	Annual

Conclusion

"Online Reference Workshops" aims to fill a vital gap in the education sector by providing essential research skills training through an accessible online platform. With a strategic approach to marketing and operations, we are poised for success in the growing online education market.