This Cow Illustrates 8 Business Models (Infographic) It's not as silly as it sounds.

By Rose Leadem

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Roelof Bos | Getty Images

Knowing what type of business model to use for your new venture is no easy task -- and even understanding the difference between each of the major models can be difficult too.

Related: The 7 Elements of a Strong Business Model

Don't worry though. Funding solutions company Business Backer has found an easy way to explain the difference between business models using a cow to help describe them. Before you roll your eyes, this metaphor will help you understand everything you should know about business models.

For example, do you know what the direct sales model is? If not, think of it like this: You have one cow, you sell milk door to door. It's as simple as that. Still not sold? Try this: If you have one cow, people can buy milk for 50 cents, and people can also buy high protein, lactose-free, low fat yogurt for $50. Do you know what model this is? It's the loss leader model -- where a product is sold below average market price in order to increase sales for other products with a higher demand.

Related: 7 Actionable Steps to Craft a Lean Business Model

So if you're unsure what model to use for your business, or if you simply want to educate yourself on the differences between major business models, check out Business Backer's infographic below.

Rose Leadem is a freelance writer for Entrepreneur.com. 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Science & Technology

This AI is the Key to Unlocking Explosive Sales Growth in 2025

Tired of the hustle? Discover a free, hidden AI from Google that helped me double sales and triple leads in a month. Learn how this tool can analyze campaigns and uncover insights most marketers miss.

Franchise 500 Annual Ranking

50 Franchise CMOs Who Are Changing the Game

Get to know the industry's most influential marketing power players.

Business News

'We're Not Allowed to Own Bitcoin': Crypto Price Drops After U.S. Federal Reserve Head Makes Surprising Statement

Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments on Bitcoin and rate cuts have rattled cryptocurrency investors.

Business News

A New Hampshire City Was Named the Hottest Housing Market in the U.S. This Year. Here's the Top 10 for 2024.

Zillow released its annual lists featuring the top housing markets, small towns, coastal cities, and geographic regions. Here's a look at the top real estate markets and towns in 2024.

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business Ideas

Is Your Business Healthy? Why Every Entrepreneur Needs To Do These 3 Checkups Every Year

You can't plan for the new year until you complete these checkups.