When starting up a small business, one must perform some research and planning. First, determine if you really want to go into small business. Small business offers flexibility, independence of management, creative freedom and the ability to be your own boss. However, there are also drawbacks, such as financial responsibility and providing all of the resources for the business. Once you have determined that you want to move forward, it is important to develop a business plan. The plan should include the mission statement of the proposed small business, marketing issues, management issues, market research, financial summary and all other issues relating to the start up of the business. In addition, one must consider the business structure. Thus, the business could be a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation. In order to determine the most appropriate type of business form, one should check with a business law attorney and a licensed accountant.