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CENTS Framework

Here’s a helpful framework for quickly analyzing a business, from a book called The Millionaire Fastlane.

C = how much control you have (or would have) over the business.

  • High control = email newsletter.
  • Low control = Instagram Influencer.

E = what are the barriers to entry?

  • Low barrier to entry = freelance writer.
  • High barrier to entry = open a bank.

A high barrier is actually a good thing in the long run because it makes it hard for someone to compete with you once you’re established.

N = whether or not the business really needs to exist.

  • Needs to exist: food or shelter businesses.
  • Doesn’t need to exist: luxury goods business.

T = time, a measure of how passively the business operates and can generate revenue.

  • Low score = freelance video editor.
  • High score = a well-run SaaS.

S = how scalable the business is.

  • Low scalability = creating and selling handmade jewelry.
  • High scalability = online store selling digital products.

You don’t need to score high on each part of the CENTS framework to have a successful business, but the more you score well on, the more successful the business is likely to be 🤑

Updated: October 2, 2023

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