Applying The "Expert" Advice to fit my business model

http://customwrittenbusinessplans.com/

Although the Business Entertainment Masters program has come to a close and I am merely weeks away from earning my degree, I am still learning the concept of creating a plan and setting a standard for my company. The expert advice that the Business plan development course has offered is very useful and if I implement what I have learned, the process will be much easier to develop. Please see a list of the major categories that every business owner and future entrpreneur should be aware of prior to starting a business.

*Study, research and familiarize yourself!
* Rewrite, revise and recreate!
* Be creative, unique and set yourself apart!
* Know the numbers! Money makes sense!

Being aware of new technology, competition and the market are key components that will attract investors and potential supporters of your business model. The development process is a constant process that includes taking an indebt look at the way you deliver information. The creative process is key for new business owners and future entrpreneurs who are entering the market.

Being unique makes you more attractive and marketable to investors and allows you to have an extra edge over your competitors. Knowing the numbers and having a general plan of how you will generate revenue is always a plus. The business plan development course is a structural course that acts as a guide to support your inital ideas. It all goes back to the adage that, you can't miss what you don't have because didn't realize just how rewarding the information is until now! This has been a great experience. I appreciate all the resources, and the food for thought. Today has been great and tomorrow will be even better! Until next time!

Experts Views on the Value of Business Plans

http://cunvc.org/2011/record-number-of-business-plans-submitted/

I recently examined the views of two experts who focus on business plans. The first expert is Associate Course director Steven Burhoe who has completed over 75 business plans for companies around the world. Mr. Burhoe chose to focus his analysis on two very familiar names in the business world. DONALD TRUMP and OPRAH WINFREY were the focus of his analysis. We can start with Trump, to offer more background on the successful moguls and the challenges that eventually led them to their present success.

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Background
Trump was sent to the New York Military Academy at age 13. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Economics, followed in his father’s footsteps and entered the real estate industry. While Winfrey, grew up in a troubled home in Mississippi where she was repeatedly sexually abused until she moved away to Nashville to live with her father who was also a businessman. In college at Tennessee State University, she started working in radio and television broadcasting and in 1986, Winfrey launched “The Oprah Show.” During the first year the show grossed $125 million in profit. Oprah received $30 million of that for herself and decided to take control of her show from ABC under her Harpo production company.  For years, the show has remained to be one of the highest grossing daytime television shows in history. 

http://www.free-extras.com/images/oprah_winfrey-13788.htm

Analysis
Donald Trump and Oprah Winfrey are both individually known for their vast business models and their high grossing television success. Expert Steven Burhoe determines that Donald Trump’s stance on business plans is that an entrepreneur must have a clear and concise focus before he starts his venture. Burhoe agues that a business plan is a model and this model offers direction and focus. Oprah’s stance on business plans is that you must monitor and adjust your business plan to increase your outcome for success.

Overall, in his analysis of Oprah Winfrey, Donald Trump and their business plan models, Steven Burhoe concludes that: 

* If there is no business plan, then there is no focus for your business and you are bound to fail. 
*With a plan, you know where you are going, what you are doing, and how you will get
where you want to be. 
*The biggest pitfall mentioned is not making a business plan at all. 

Pictured: Dave Lavinsky, Co-founder of Growthink

I also viewed an interesting interview that was featured on Bloomberg Business week
with expert Dave Lavinsky, the co-founder of Growthink, a business plan consulting firm that has helped write over 1,000 business plans. Lavinsky offered his analysis on what potential investors want to see and the misconceptions that entrepreneurs make. Lavinsky argues that a lot of business plans were “predicated on companies that were making first time developments.” However, investors have began to reconsider their investment decisions because the companies that made first time developments are now being pushed aside for companies coming behind them. Lavinsky offers expert advice for starter companies and entrepreneurs who are developing their business plan:

*Review the track record for your market niche
*Do market research as soon as you have an idea
*Evaluate if your idea makes sense and if it does attack the market
*If you need financing, then you need to have a complete business plan. This includes setting up milestones
*Improve what you can measure
*Research what investors in your market niche want

After examining the views of Steven Burhoe and Dave Lavinsky I must say that I agree with their assertion that an effective business plan goes a long way. A plan is a simple road map in the right direction. Proper planning gives your business purpose and speaks for itself. I have learned a lot of useful information over the past year and these experts have reinforced what I was taught in reference to effective research and planning. It was a privilege to share the views of these highly qualified experts with you. Today has been great, tomorrow will be even better! Until next time!

You can find a link to Expert Steven Burhoe at: http://bpexpertviews.blogspot.com/
or view full interviews with business plan experts at: http://feedroom.businessweek.com/index.jsp?fr_story=a6be55484f395148180836b4e80cb8d042fb2c8e

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U.S. President’s Barack Obama’s re-election campaign uses Facebook!!!!!!!!

U.S. President’s Barack Obama’s re-election campaign was kicked off by using the online effort of social media. The campaign started with a set structure of utilizing social media mogul, Facebook as a key tool for spreading the word and directly reaching supporters.

While social media sites have dominated marketing efforts, gave birth to new artists via viral feeds and acted as the dominating publicity tool for brands all over the globe. There seems to be a new political strategy evolving within the facebook headquarters!

Obama’s facebook page has well over 19 million people who claim to ‘like’ it! The site maintains that the campaign is launching an online effort along with their offline effort towards re-election.

Along with making history as the first African American President in the United States, Obama is also the first president to use Facebook live, a streaming interview feature to directly reach voters by doing what campaign officials refer to the activity as “keeping them (voters) active!"

Early this year Obama visited the Palo Alto headquarters of the social network, where the president held a special "Facebook town hall" event that streamed live over Facebook and the White House website. Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg and Zuckerburg moderated and sat onstage with the president, along with a audience of Facebook employees, and entrepreneurs.

With over 7.2 million followers on Twitter, Obama also kicked off his election campaign by releasing a youtube clip to aid his campaign journey. The President has also pledged to reach out to every voter that supported him during his first run in an effort to reconnect with his voters. The changing pace of technology and the rise of social networks allows politicians to associate themselves and become active with the world of changing technology. Perhaps social media will allow us to market ourselves a set further from where we stand today! It has been great! Until next time!

Swift, Mike. "Obama to hold Facebook town hall; kicks off campaign fundraising in Bay Area - San Jose Mercury News." Home - San Jose Mercury News. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 May 2011. .

Wauters, Robin. " Obama’s Re-election Campaign Puts Facebook Front And Center … Literally ." TechCrunch . N.p., n.d. Web. 22 May 2011. .

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Digital Media Distribution! Is their more in the future?

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I have always been a writer and a dreamer. Each day has allowed me to advance one step closer to make these goals become reality to fulfill my personal career goals of becoming a film maker and a publisher. I read an article regarding digital technological distribution opportunities for the film industry. These options are almost mandatory for film makers to release their projects to the public. Digital media allows creators to release material online, on DVDs and in theaters. The article offers several explanations as to why technological advancements are required to challenge distributors and creators. The article also describes several factors that must be considered before film makers release material. These factors include but are not limited to:

1. Digital technology offers opportunities in the film industry.
2. Cable pay-per-view, advanced playback, and now Windows Media 9 series offers distribution options.
3. Currently, there are over 500,000 digital movies being illegally exchanged online.    

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Digital and online distribution offers the leisure of home entertainment, secure content, and the interpersonal experience of controlling and sharing content. Developments have forced companies like Microsoft to take advantage of new distribution options. These options include:

1. Digital media enabled theaters
2. Distribution on the internet
3. Distribution on CD's and DVD's

http://www.fotosearch.com/CSP349/k3493021/

The article also discusses each wave of technology and the future of entertainment and digital technology. According to the article, we are currently in the second generation of developments in technology with the growth of digital media, along with developing digital rights and licensing. However, companies are collectively preparing for a third generation of digital media and growing in this area by focusing on managing digital content, offering consumers more theater quality in the comfort of their home, and also by building a standard by managing standard business models for creators to use while building and developing content.

This age of new media is focused on a more personal viewing “experience" for consumers as well as the gratification of instantly streaming secure content. I must say that I look forward to utilizing the advancements of the digital developments in technology and using these methods to release my creative works. Please see a link to the article and more information at,
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/17/movies/17dargis.html and http://.www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/forpros/content_provider/film/disopwhitepaper.aspx.

Today has been great and of course, tomorrow will be even better! Until next time!  

"Digital Media Distribution Opportunities for the Film Industry." Microsoft Corporation. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 May 2011. <http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/forpros/content_provider/film/disopwhitepaper.aspx.

I will follow: replicating success!

 

http://www.mrmovietimes.com/movies/I-Will-Follow.html

In my quest to become a publisher, script writer and producer I have studied the works of others who walk a path that is similar to mine. I recently read the headlines of writer/director Ava DuVernay for her film, “I will follow” which was created with only $50,000, in only 15 days. DuVeray told the Los Angeles Times that she was, “really on fire to make this.” The film starring Salli Richardson-Whitfield and Omari Hardwick recounts the “life of a woman at a crossroads and the people who help her move forward.” This passionate story is told with a lot of heart and it evokes emotion because it fosters a relatable theme. As a writer, my stories may vary, my journey is different but overall, our goal is still the same. To become a success, and gain access, we must study the paths and influence of those that came before us, in this industry.

As we emerge on our journey as individuals, we replicate success in a conscious effort to somehow conquer our own dreams. Duplication is a mandated process which allows students like myself to pay homage to leaders in this competitive field. Knowledge is power and we must maintain a level of work ethic and apply them to accomplishing these goals. The process of replicating success is a result driven technique that is utilized in multi-level marketing companies and in publicity campaign structures across the world. These techniques, if adopted by others may form a community of knowledgeable creators. By adopting new approaches, and personalizing these techniques, we can accomplish more and go further. My goal is to replicate the practices and actions of creators like Ava DuVernay who were able to release their films, be creative and take on the industry, one city at a time! 

www.iwillfollow.com

Please see the links below for more information:

 http://www.iwillfollowfilm.com/media.html
www.iwillfollowfilm.com
www.affrm.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBvqEaJ6O0M&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WerAwjZJCM0

Today has been productive, but tomorrow will be even better! Until next time!

Distribution Issues in Independent Film

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Led by sites like YouTube, Joost, iTunes and Amazon we are in the midst of a new digital movement. As we merge away from traditional distribution and the age of home video entertainment, we move on to a new web based entertainment format that is bound to dominate the industry. This opportunity will allow creators to expose their material and maximize their exposure to develop in a dramatic way. I recently read an article that discusses how the film industry is following the model that the music industry has set by using the internet to expose content. By using digital distribution, independent filmmakers are able to generate an audience for their projects that was not necessarily available before. The writer argues that, "films that cannot attract a theatrical release can certainly have a presence online." The web serves as a emerging source of entertainment and convenience for consumers. The article also asserts that Independent creators tend to adapt to market conditions and are ideally positioned to take advantage of new and existing online distribution opportunities. The delivery methods of entertainment are expanding. Along with hand held books, convenient gaming and smart devices, the digital movement also allows motion pictures and online television viewing to emerge. This article also offers key tips that all creators must consider prior to digitally releasing their material. Familiarize yourself with the key terms and the tips listed below:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://orawdon.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/film.gif&imgrefurl=http://orawdon.wordpress.com/2010/03/16/what-kind-of-media-institution-might-distribute-your-media-product-and-why/&h=428&w=550&sz=99&tbnid=tCNZrNGbO08GWM:&tbnh=103&tbnw=133&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dpictures%2Bof%2Bfilm%2Bdistribution&zoom=1&q=pictures+of+film+distribution&usg=__uE8-7d7q81yGopy6noZ17sTBq0w=&sa=X&ei=yrqVTb-WE5TWiALi74CdCQ&ved=0CBoQ9QEwA

The Grant of Rights
Do not be quick to give away more rights than you should. Know the costs and procedures involved in new digital delivery methods and you will be able to negotiate knowledgeably from a position of strength. Online digital distribution entities are attempting to build product libraries as assets by taking expansive rights for long periods of time. Do not accept an agreement that grants a distributor, all rights in all media worldwide. Be sure to specify if you are allowing a company to have digital, online or view-on-demand rights. 

Exclusivity
It is risky to grant exclusivity. It would be safe to grant a nonexclusive online license for a limited term. This will allow the market to continue to mature and you can reassess your position after a relatively short term. Few distributors will ask for exclusive online exploitation, although some may try.

Territory
Your goal is to get the online distributor to limit the territory to the United States or a specific territory in which it is primarily doing business. The trick is that, online distributors may ask for worldwide rights.

Licensing Period/License Fee/Payment Terms/Audit
Your goal is to Keep your license period as short as possible. The license term for online exploitation depend on other rights, if any, you have previously licensed. If you have no previous exploitation, its good to try an limit the license period to 6 to 18 months so that you can reassess the online marketplace in short order.

Your goal is to negotiate an advance and royalties. You should also consider asking for stock options, and the right to purchase stock at lower than market rates. Also, specify the minimum rates to be charged for downloads and viewings.

If an advance is not possible, its good to ask for a large share of the gross revenues for downloads, streaming or other licenses (50-70% is obtainable).  Also, try for a share of advertising revenues associated with viewing your product.  Obtaining an advance against royalties for an online license may be difficult, because several online start-up companies claim poverty in the  developing market.

Cross-Links
Your goal is to retain the right to exhibit the product on your official site, along with the right to sell merchandise, videos and DVD's of your product from your own site. To make this happen: Be sure you include a provision in your agreement that requires cross-linking of the online distributor’s site with your official website for your product or company.

These tips have helped me and I hope they help others. Today has been great, tomorrow will be even better! Until next time!

You can view the article at:
Emerging Online Distribution Issues for Independent Films « Indie Music Musings. (n.d.). Indie Music Musings. Retrieved April 1, 2011, from http://indiemusicmusings.wordpress.com/2010/03/19/emerging-online-distribution-issues-for-independent-films/

Industry Awareness! Avoiding Liabilities!!!!!!!

 

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I was blessed to have an advanced law course in the entertainment program that I am currently enrolled in. This course has allowed me to understand the great concept of risk management, and preparation that entertainment lawyers must have, to produce the results needed to assist and represent a good artist and excellent brands! It is my goal to share the expert knowledge that I have gained from this course and from listening to industry related podcast.

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I reviewed a podcast that covers “The basics of intellectual property Law” by J. Craig Williams of the Williams Lindberg law firm, PC (An Intellectual Property and Business Law Firm). This link offers valuable information with a focus on the problems that businesses and the creators of intellectual property are facing today. Mr. Williams offers information ranging from infringement in regards to movie sales and the status of current piracy laws. He also enforced the movement of intellectual property overseas and how the internet and Congress have trouble safeguarding the speed of technology. Attorney Williams recommended that we police our intellectual property and be knowledgeable of the rules we currently have in place regarding exported music. He suggests that we change and adapt with technology as it develops because technology is constantly changing and in this field, we must stay current. You can view his podcast at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haRJgfA-bDg&feature=related. Mr. Williams and his firm also offer information on their website. You can click the link below to utilize a virtual consultation involving trademark law, patent law, copyright law, business law, computer law and non specific categories of entertainment law.
 Their site is, http://www.coloradoiplaw.com/trademark-law/virtual-consultation.html
.

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The second podcast serves as an update for entertainment lawyers and professionals. This podcast discusses the liability for entertainers due to how they misuse social media. The podcast starts with a discussion on Justin Beiber’s manager tweeting the location of a concert where Justin was due to perform, which resulting in an overcrowded event and his inability to expeditiously re-tweet the fans informing them that the event was canceled. These potential liability cases also discuss Justin Beiber  releasing the phone number of a immoral fan-- which are potential damage and privacy claims. Profit participation and accounting procedures is a topic that is also discussed on the podcast whereas a joint venture between Warner Bros. and a bundled license of 100 movies were set to be created with film maker Allen Ladd Jr. The case between Ladd and Warner Bros was determined in Ladd's favor for the films, Blade Runner, Chariots of Fire and a lot of other projects. Unusual high profit deals were discussed regarding court rulings which favored the terms that were used in the "actual contracts and fair dealings. " This podcast serves as a discussion between entertainment lawyers where you can listen to the wrongful behavior and follow up on fair use cases that are currently pending in the media. Feel free to click on the link below to utilize the entertainment law discussion at http://hw.libsyn.com/p/9///9876797a2f92a3a/EntertainmentLawUpdateEpisode013.mp3?sid=ec67c42edec984f6d9d98c64bf91d148&l_sid=22761&l_eid=&l_mid=2074351. “summary of entertainment cases” by Entertainment lawyers.  Episode 13. You can obtain more information at www.entertainmentlaw.com, createprotect.com, www.bennettlaw/tamarabennett.

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The third podcast covers works that are in the public domain and works that are currently protected by  copyright. Mr. Oatts discusses the nature of music that is in public domain, he interprets the song writers state-of-mind regarding sharing their music and the need for musical copyrights. As a film maker I must properly cite the original owners of all music that I use or include in my projects this includes the musical score, the writers. etc.,. Their are methods must be taken to ensure that all musical collaborations and scores are properly cited and recognized if they are going to be used in your work. View the link to this podcast at,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rptna0yLe4U “music copyright” by Trevor Oatts

I listened to an additional podcast that covers intellectual property infringement and the competitive advantage of copyrighting all intellectual property. The speaker discusses the potential risks that are involved with intellectual capital and the process that creators of intellectual property can take to avoid losing their ideas and material. He also offers examples of possible monetary amounts that potential liability claims might cost. The podcast offers information on IP holding companies, how distracting litigation cases are, and how innovative software and inventive ideas are.  You can view this podcast at, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLvMZujfEzY&feature=related "intellectual property"

These podcast offer pertinent information that I can incorporate into my future film production business. There are several entertainment law and intellectual property issues that any entertainment company could possibly face. The nature of the entertainment industry is a very constant and complex. The best way to arm yourself in the entertainment business is to be fully aware and get as much information as possible. Thanks for your time!