Business 2.0 magazine reports in its June 2006 issue that "there's never been a better time to start your own company."
While barriers to entry might be lower than before, the magazine warns that "succeeding is as difficult as ever." To help navigate the dangerous startup waters, Business 2.0 has developed a 16-step guide (PDF) to help entrepreneurs succeed.
The graphic that leads off the report is particularly interesting. This picture may oversimplify the startup process, but it does help visualize the basic steps of going from concept to company.
The sections on what to look for in angel investors and venture capitalists are also helpful.