New Business Road Test: What Entrepreneurs & Executives Should Do Before Writing a Business Plan
Stop Writing Plans and Start Asking Smarter Questions That Save You from Disaster
About This Book
Every year, millions dream of launching their own business, chasing freedom, excitement, or a great idea. But most crash at the first hurdle because they start running before knowing if their idea can really win. This transformative guide reveals how to put any opportunity through a rigorous 'road test'—uncovers unseen market traps, exposes fatal flaws, and empowers you to pivot or press forward with evidence, not hope. From world-changing start-ups to small lifestyle businesses, you’ll discover how to think like a top investor, avoid dead ends, and turn your passion into a venture that attracts customers, survives competition, and truly thrives.About the Author
John Mullins is a three-time entrepreneur, acclaimed professor at London Business School, and internationally respected thought leader in entrepreneurship and venture capital. With hands-on experience spanning boardrooms and start-ups across the USA, UK, and beyond, his students have launched hundreds of ventures that still flourish today. A sought-after speaker and bestselling author, John challenges conventional wisdom about business plans and investments, blending research with hard-won practical insights. He is passionate about helping founders and investors avoid avoidable failures and build ventures that truly last, not just launch.
Biggest Takeaway
You’ll learn how to identify and fix flaws before you waste time or money, focus on customers’ real needs (not your product’s features), and develop a business model that actually works in the real world. Master a seven-domain framework used by successful entrepreneurs and investors, build your credibility with data, and avoid common traps in markets and industries. Walk away able to run small experiments, pivot rapidly, and shape your team for lasting success. Expect a more resilient mindset, deeper strategic thinking, and much better odds of turning your vision into reality.
Key Insights from This Book
Explore the most important ideas and learn how to apply them in your life.
Why Most Business Ideas Fail (and How to Expose Fatal Flaws Before They Kill You)
Why Business Plans Are Overrated (And What Smart Entrepreneurs Do Instead)
The Seven Domains: Why Your Market Isn’t Your Industry (And Both Matter More Than You Think)
Macro vs. Micro: Why Big Trends Alone Won’t Save Your Small Business
The Five Forces: Why Even Great Companies Die in Lousy Industries
Why First-Mover Advantage Is a Myth (And What Actually Lasts in Business)
Why Purpose, Aspiration, and Risk Alignment Are Non-Negotiable for Founders
Why Execution on Critical Success Factors Means the Difference Between Growth and Collapse
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