So, you have a solid idea for a business and you are wondering how to turn it into a real business.

Try following these steps:

1. Clarify your business idea in terms of what you will offer customers. See getting new business ideas.
   
   
2. Conduct market analysis and research (desk and/or field). See profiling target markets.
   
   
3. Refine your business idea and flesh it out so that you can prepare a relatively comprehensive description and market positioning statement (as regards price, features etc.). See product/service descriptions.
   
   
4. Compile a short strategic plan to give you an overview of your idea from a "total" business perspective. See developing a strategic plan and online strategic planner.
   
   
5. Write a business plan with projections AND include an action plan. This plan can range from an eight-page informal document (for your eyes only) to a 40-plan comprehensive plan (for raising external finance etc.). See how to write a business plan and get insights into a business plan. For projections, look into using financial projection software. 
   
   
6. Use your plans to help mobilise resources. These could cover pilot operations, raising finance, prototyping, R&D, creating networks, recruiting staff, locating premises/equipment and so on.
   
   
7. Update your business plan and related action plan (especially if #6 takes time).
   
   
8. Start executing your business and action plans.
   
   
9. Revise your action plan and key financial projections (especially short/medium term cashflow forecasts) in light of initial results.