Ten steps from the Small Business Administration for starting a business.

1. Conduct market research
2. Write your business plan
3. Fund your business
4. Pick your business location
5. Choose a business structure
6. Choose your business name
7. Register your business
8. Get federal and state tax IDs
9. Apply for licenses and permits
10. Open a business bank account

For more info visit  SBA

CPO or Certified Pool Operator is a certificate that shows you have the knowledge ank skills for operating pools and spas. Some areas require the certification if you are going to service commercial pools.  Find out more infor at the NSPF site.