Many small businesses that find themselves expanding overlook an important part of the transition from small firm to larger organization. They neglect to think of the organization as a separate entity. As a small company, the owner may feel that the business is their child or a part of themselves. Being able to think of the business as its own entity is an important step in being able to allow it to grow beyond the owner’s ability to control everything.

The concept of organizational development includes the ability to analyze the structure, mission, values, and characteristics of a company. Only by looking at the business as a whole, separate entity, can owners and other stakeholders effectively assess its current state and make plans for the future growth and expansion of the company. Looking at a company’s assets , both physical and human, as well as the procedures, policies, and mission is key to making good decisions that will create value in the present and put the company on track to achieve its long-term goals.

Human assets are deserving of special consideration in this process. Small business owners should plan ahead for the day when their company will need a management team instead of just their own leadership. They should be watching for indications that employees have the potential to move up and should arrange for those staff members to obtain business management training as soon as it is financially feasible. This process and training will ensure that the company will have the leadership team it needs for continous development and expansion.