Study the market

The percentage of startup failures is high. Don't be one of them. Make sure the marketplace needs what you have to offer, or tweak your business to create a new niche.

I recommend: Head to your Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Census Bureau, trade journals or local business journals to get started. GreenBook.org can help you find market research companies to take you even further. BizMiner offers industry analyses. MarketResearch.com offers a huge collection of market research.

Write a business plan

Determine how much capital you'll need, what you can expect to make and what your goals are for the present, as well as five and 10 years out. Hire an accountant to guide your process within IRS constraints.

I recommend: Use CCH's cash requirements worksheet to get started. The Small Business Administration shows just what you need to include. AllBusiness.com, Business Resource Software and SCORE offer business plans forms or templates. The IRS's small-business resource has downloadable forms and details on expenses you can deduct.

Gauge your need for employees

Even the best, most dedicated worker can't always do everything himself. If you're going to add employees, you'll need to learn how to manage them efficiently.

I recommend: BusinessBalls.com's guide to managing employee performance and CCH ToolKit's projected staffing schedule are also helpful. The IRS has forms you'll need for employees and details on withholding taxes.

Complete the environment

Can you legally work out of your home? Do you have enough space and equipment to do so? Are you ready to market what you create?

I recommend: Consider leasing equipment; use CCH ToolKit's equipment lease checklist. For marketing templates, turn to HP. To compare your business to competitors, try SCORE's competitive analysis worksheet.