Preparation Questions

P'kolino is a children's furniture company that was launched in 2005. As you read the business plan, keep the following questions in mind:

1. Does the business plan tell a coherent and compelling story?

2. Does the plan capture all of the learning that Antonio and JB have accumulated?

3. What three questions do you think Antonio and JB need to answer through further planning before they launch the venture?

4. What are the three strongest aspects of the plan?

5. What areas need improvement?

This business plan was prepared by Antonio Turco-Rivas and J.B. Schneider in support of their business. The original drafts were prepared in the Entrepreneur Intensity Track taught by Professor Andrew Zacharakis. © Copyright P'kolino and Babson College, 2005.

Directions you will review the business plan of P'kolino (covered in the case on pages 261-303 and write a comprehensive essay to address the questions below.

The case contains a manageable amount of material and presents an opportunity to consolidate the material covered to date in the course. Please note: this is a large case, which is why you have been given two weeks to complete the assignment.

Entrepreneurial Attributes: On page 37 of their business plan (page 298 in your textbook), the section "The Team" briefly lists the founder's information.

Theil in this case study, there was not specific discussion about the attributes of the co-founders, think and hypothesize about a list of possible attributes that you think the co-founders might possess. Which three are most important, and why do you think so? Dow did these attributes help them succeed?

Business Plan: Does the business plan tell a coherent and compelling story? Does the plan capture all of the learning that Antonio and J.B. have accumulated? What are the three strongest aspects of the plan? What three areas need improvement? Explain why you chose the improvements that you chose and what you think will be the result if the improvements you recommend are implemented.

Future Questions: What three questions do you think Antonio and J.B. need to answer through further planning before they launch the venture? Provide your rationale for these recommendations.

Funding: Would you invest in this firm? Why or why not? Provide your rationale for your position.

Paper length: 1,500 words minimum, APA formatting and complete source citation required.