A business is an occupation, profession, trade or industrial activity with the primary motive of profit-making. The term is usually applied to commercial and industrial enterprises but can also refer to not-for-profit organizations or cooperatives. The business environment is highly competitive, and successful businesses seek out new opportunities and strategies to generate profits, while simultaneously avoiding risks and managing debt.
A large number of business structures exist, depending on the size and type of organization as well as the legal jurisdiction in which it operates. In general, larger, more formal organizations tend to organize as corporations or joint-stock companies, while smaller, less-formal businesses may be organized as sole proprietorships or partnerships. In most cases, business entities are formed based on state law, with particular forms available for specific kinds of businesses.
Continuity in dealings: Business transactions must be continuous and regular to constitute business. Isolated transactions will not be considered as business, unless the purpose of them is to make money. Profit earning: The basic objective of every business should be to earn profit, as this will keep the business going on in a long run.
Consumer satisfaction: The consumers should be satisfied with the products or services provided by the business, as if they are not then they will look for alternative options. This can be achieved by providing quality-riched goods to the customers at reasonable prices.
Marketing: This is an important part of the business, which is involved in the promotion and sale of products or services to the target consumers for generating sales and revenues. It includes market research, price setting, product development, distribution and promotional activities.
Finance and investment: It involves the activities relating to the management of capital, including financing, investing and raising funds, asset management and insurance. It is an essential part of the business world, as it helps in transferring resources from one place to another.
Risk and uncertainty: The main element of the business is the element of risk and uncertainty. This is because the returns from the business are never guaranteed and can vary from one year to the other. This can be due to many reasons, such as floods, fall in prices, strikes, lockout, fluctuation in the money markets etc. These factors make it difficult to forecast the business and plan accordingly. However, efforts are made to reduce these risks and uncertainties. The business must also be aware of the potential legal ramifications, such as litigation and environmental liabilities. Therefore, it is vital for the business to take out appropriate insurance policies. Business also must develop and implement appropriate systems to minimize safety incidents, as these can lead to expensive statutory fines. Moreover, the business must adopt safety standards and training programs to ensure the safety of its employees and customers.