Business Model

A business model refers to the blueprint of any company/business. It is more like a summary of how that company intends to make money, the product/service it will offer, how and why. The business model also states the marketing plan of the company, its target market, and all its cost.

The value proposition is a critical component of the business model. This describes a company's goods or services and why they are attractive to customers or clients. The value proposition is usually ideally articulated in a way that distinguishes the product or service from its competitors.

Pricing and cost are the two exclusive elements of a company's business model.

There are many ways business analysts and investors determine the success of a business model. One of them is by looking at a company's gross profit. Which is usually the company's total revenue subtracted from the total cost of goods sold. 

Components of a good business model:

1. Value proposition: The unique value a company offers to its customers. It is what defines the company's major product or service.

2. Customer Segments: This refers to the specific groups of customers that the company targets. It helps the company identify its ideal customers, understand their needs and preferences, and tailor its products or services to meet those needs.

3. Channels: Looks into the various ways in which the company delivers its products or services to customers. It includes both traditional and digital channels, such as brick-and-mortar stores, online marketplaces, and social media

4. Revenue Streams: These are the sources of revenue for the company. It includes the pricing strategies, sales volumes, and customer acquisition strategies that the company uses to generate revenue. 

5. The cost structure: Refers to the numerous costs connected with running a firm. Salaries, rent, marketing charges, and production costs are examples of both fixed and variable costs. 

6. Key Partnerships: This relates to the company's partnerships with other firms or organizations. It may include suppliers, distributors, and other strategic partners who assist the company in meeting its objectives.

7. Key Activities: The precise actions and activities that the company does to supply its products or services to clients are referred to as key activities. Everything from product design and development to marketing and customer service is covered. 

Types of business models:

Since a business model is the blueprint of any business, there are many business models to complement each business type namely:

1. Manufacturer: Business responsible for locating raw materials and producing finished products.
2. Free-for-service:  Business that concentrates on providing labor and services to organizations in need.
3. Subscription: Centers on offering a service that requires consistent payment.
4. Premium: Business Model that introduces customers to basic products but subsequently upgrades to paid versions.
5. Affiliate: Marketing that compensates the entire marketing team for reaching a broad range of audience.

Here's how you create a successful business model:

• Locate your audience
• Locate the problem
• Know your offering
• Find partners/co-founders
• Set marketing plans
• Implement your model.

 The foundation of every operating business in the world today is the business model.