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What is a Business Model Canvas?

Updated: Jun 9


A business model canvas is a strategic management tool used to visualize and assess a business model. It's essentially a one-page blueprint that outlines the core components of how a business creates, delivers, and captures value.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of a business model canvas:

  • Structure: It typically consists of nine building blocks divided into two sections: customer facing (right side) and internal operations (left side).

  • Customer Facing: This side focuses on understanding your target customer and the value you offer them. It includes elements like customer segments, channels, customer relationships, and value propositions.

  • Internal Operations: This side focuses on how you deliver that value and make your business function. It includes elements like key resources, key activities, key partnerships, and cost structure.

  • Benefits: The canvas helps you brainstorm new ideas, refine existing models, and communicate your business strategy clearly. It fosters a structured approach to business planning and allows for easy visualization of potential trade-offs.

If you'd like to learn more about the specific building blocks and how to use a business model canvas, I can provide some additional information.


The nine building blocks of the business model canvas can be grouped into customer facing and internal operations:

Customer Facing (Right Side):

  1. Customer Segments:  Who are your target customers? This could be a single segment or multiple segments with distinct needs and characteristics.

  2. Value Propositions: What value do you offer to your customers? This addresses their needs and problems with your unique selling proposition.

  3. Channels: How do you reach your customers? This includes the communication and distribution channels you use to deliver your value proposition.

  4. Customer Relationships: What type of relationship do you establish with your customers? This could be self-service, personalized assistance, or a community approach.

Internal Operations (Left Side):

  1. Key Resources: What resources are critical to deliver your value proposition? These can be physical, financial, intellectual, or human resources.

  2. Key Activities: What key actions are necessary to operate your business? This encompasses production, problem-solving, platform development, and marketing activities.

  3. Key Partnerships: Who are your key partners and suppliers? These are external entities that collaborate to create and deliver your value proposition.

  4. Cost Structure: What are the costs associated with running your business? This includes fixed and variable costs incurred across all aspects of your operations.

  5. Revenue Streams: How do you generate revenue? This encompasses the different ways your customers pay for the value you offer.

By understanding and effectively interlocking these nine building blocks, you can create a robust and sustainable business model.

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