Printer-friendly versionBeing a part of a franchise business can be hard in today’s economic climate. Whether you are developing your own franchise business or looking to join another, you need to outsmart the competition, keep your overheads down and above all conquer the ever talked about recession. So how can you not only survive the recession, but come out the other end smiling? One common claim by franchisors is that software can be a valuable weapon, helping you manage and grow your business. But are these claims really true?
We asked industry expert George Perfect, a consultant for Biznik, how he feels software is used in franchised businesses today. He stated that "Although most businesses use IT daily, many restrict this to just the basic accounts and office software. Some companies have now gone further and started to use software to manage relationships between franchisees and franchisors, improving the franchisees experience and making their business more competitive"
Many franchisors have experienced the benefits that a well-designed franchise management system can bring. Simon Albert from The PC Support Group chose to use software to help manage his franchise as he felt it would help with his franchise recruitment. “The fact that we use central software to manage basic sales lead activities like appointment setting and opportunity management is a big bonus for new recruits - it shows just how much we care about their success". His fast growing IT franchise used Franchise 360 designed by GreyRidge Software “because it works the way we do, fast and to the point.”
Another success story comes from Ginny Murphy, BFA member and CEO of The Wheel Specialist. She bought in software to gain a better understanding of her business as a whole and to help her monitor her growing franchise network wherever she was in the world. “The software we use directs us towards activities that will help us to grow, giving us the efficiency and visibility that helps our business succeed.”
Many businesses worry that investing in software is an expense that they could do without. George Perfect disagrees "Actually, it is the other way around. Those that don't invest in smart systems are stacking up big problems for themselves and might well lose their competitive edge over time. Plus, due to the recession there are some great deals around at the moment".
If you are looking to invest in technology, experts recommend that you work with a good supplier, who knows exactly how your business can benefit from a system. Many software houses will tell you that each franchise is the same and an off the shelf product will do. Realistically, only you know your business, if you can work with a supplier who understands what you need your system could deliver great results. As ever in franchising keep your eyes on the money and shop around until you find a system and a supplier which suits the way your business works.