Further Guides
If you're thinking about running your own business, buying a company that's already established may be quicker and easier than starting from scratch.
Taking on a franchise is an option worth considering for anyone who wants to run a business but doesn't have a specific business idea or prefers the security provided by an established concept.
Buying an established business is a good option for some aspiring entrepreneurs. Much of the groundwork for success may have already been done by the existing owners.
If you are thinking of starting your own business you should consider the possibility of working from home.
Home-based businesses are a popular option for many types of smaller business. Generally the costs will be lower, you can avoid travel expenses and you have the freedom and flexibility to work the hours you choose in an environment that you create yourself.
If you are planning to set up and run a 'work at home' business, there are a number of points to check before you begin.
Choosing a name for your business is a creative and enjoyable process. It is also one that you need to get right. Customers may infer a lot from your business name and first impressions count.
Starting a business, although highly exciting, is a big step to take. Sometimes before you take the plunge into full-time business ownership, it might be better and easier to think about doing it on a part-time basis, as a way of ensuring the business idea will work.
Insurance can protect your business against damage to, or the loss of, physical assets. The cost of insurance depends on both the insurer's assessment of the likelihood of damage and the size of any payment they may have to make in the event of a claim
Outsourcing is when you contract out a business function - a particular task, role or process - to a third party over a substantial period of time. This third-party organisation takes control of the function and becomes responsible for its success.
This guide provides an introduction to the General Data Protection Regulation.
On 25 May 2018 the UK will see the biggest ever change to its Data Protection laws with the implementation of the EU General Data Protection Regulation which will replace the current Data Protection Act 1998.