Final answer:
Before planning the layout of business publications, it is crucial to determine the audience and goals. These factors influence the language, content, visual style, and how information is delivered to meet the readers' expectations and publication objectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
When creating business publications, determining your audience and goals is essential before planning the layout. Audience analysis involves considering who the readers are, what they already know, and what they need to know. This understanding shapes the language, tone, and content to maintain interest and meet expectations. The goals pertain to what you hope to achieve with the publication, guiding the selection of visual aids and information density. A consistent visual style, addressing accessibility, and aligning your writing with primary (and possibly secondary) audiences are all critical aspects of the planning process for effective business communication.