Lean startups are constructed upon validated learning, scientific experimentation and a consistent product, in hopes that it will lead to shortened product development cycles, the ability to better measure progress and opportunities to receive valuable customer feedback. Some business experts say lean startups can do without a business plan – that a detailed strategy that is too rigid and rarely checked is a waste of time and does not help these types of companies grow. Not many experts would dispute this assessment.

That's because business plans are not meant to be rigid and left untouched. Companies should spend time crafting an in-depth long-term strategy, but they should do so with the caveat that their plans will have to be reviewed regularly and adapted based on business performance and market factors. Lean startups shouldn't overlook the benefits of a sound, realistic business plan. For those who may have trouble getting their plans in shape, here are three tips to help.

Allow opportunities for growth

A number of company owners may have a reluctance to create a business plan because they may have spent hours crafting one in the past only to see it collect dust afterward. This isn't the business plan's fault! After crafting a strategic plan, leaders need to set out time each month to go over their strategies to ensure they're still in line with economic factors and new business opportunities that might have come along. Flexibility and attention is key. Nurturing a business plan ensures companies get the most out of their time and energy.

Build, measure, learn 

Like other small businesses, lean startups must create business projections, which business leaders can then use to alter their products and services to cater to their customer base. Throughout the growth of the business, lean startups build upon their successes and make the proper changes to their business plans as they see fit. Every few months, these entrepreneurs should review their plans and see how they can alter them for improvements. This is a continual process for entrepreneurs building their own lean startups who have the ability to continue strategically planning for their success.

Thrive in uncertainty

The best part about lean startups is that entrepreneurs can get their firm off the ground without having large amounts of initial funding and costly product launches. Customers play a big role in lean startups, as these ventures may change frequently to meet the wants and needs of their customer base. This is why entrepreneurs at lean startups are able to stay calm in the face of uncertainty, because they have the ability to alter their enterprise to provide better customer service.

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