We Begin With the End in Mind . . .

If the business is to survive long term, we believe four plans must be in place:

1. Business Plan -- mission statement, strategic plan, list of objectives, assignments, accountability, compensation, employee and management meetings, regular director, shareholder and advisor meetings.
   
   
2. Family Plan -- developing a family council, family charter, participation and exit policy, values statement, family policy, improved communication techniques, code of conduct, conflict resolution policy and learning to separate family from business issues.
   
   
3. Succession Plan -- career mapping, training and choosing the next leader, leadership development, retirement and financial security for senior generation, and asset and control transfer to junior generation.
   
   
4. Estate Plan -- establishing family "justice", wills and trusts, durable power of attorney, health care proxy, proper life insurance, buy-sell agreements and emergency plans for individuals, family and the company.