What term is used to describe the total stages a business goes through from inception to maturity?

The term that describes the total stages a business goes through from inception to maturity is the "Business life cycle." This concept outlines the various phases that a business experiences as it grows and evolves, typically including stages such as startup, growth, maturity, and decline. Understanding the business life cycle is crucial for entrepreneurs and managers because it helps them recognize the challenges and opportunities that arise at each stage, enabling more informed decision-making and strategy development.

The business model refers to the framework a company uses to generate revenue and profit, while a market strategy focuses on how a business positions itself in the marketplace to attract customers. A business plan is a detailed document outlining specific goals and strategies for a business’s development but does not encompass the full range of stages in a business’s evolution. Therefore, “Business life cycle” is the most accurate term for capturing the comprehensive journey of a business from its inception to maturity.