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Are you up to speed with your computer? Technology has transformed the way businesses engage with the world and it is important to be aware of the benefits it has for franchisors, franchisees and customers. If you want your business to succeed and to be competitive, implementing the most up-to-date technology is essential.
Developing bespoke technology
While the most obvious benefit of technology in business is increased productivity, there are several benefits to implementing cutting edge technology to franchise operations. For example, many franchisees can choose to work from home or other remote locations. Ensuring that they have the latest technology means they can keep up to date with their business on-the-go. Better technology can assist with managing budgets, organising payroll and developing innovative marketing campaigns. There is every reason, as a business owner, to keep up with the latest technological advances.
Use technology to help the brand grow
Successful franchisors implementtechnology that will ultimately benefit the brand as a whole. Technology needs to enable business growth by allowing franchisees to take on more staff and help them offer a consistent experience to the client by ensuring all client details and company policies are accessible on an easy-to-access virtual platform. A cloud-based system can allow for multiple users in a single franchise, enabling new employees to be added to the system with minimal impact. Day-to-day operations have never been easier.
Let technology support invoicing
As most people who buy into a franchise are usually new to running a business and a lack of credit control is one of the main reasons why many new independent businesses fail, it is vital to have a solid invoicing system. Developing an effective operational system can give franchisees an immediate view of how many invoices are overdue and the total amount of money owed to the business. It should also help them make an informed decision as to how they need to contact the client with regard to an overdue amount based on stored communication history.
Connect with customers and service providers
Having a powerful client/service provider communication management system is vital these days. It is important to utilise different communication methods to help franchisees inform their service providers about new clients. Frequent communication with clients, through SMS technologies, ensures that they are aware of the services or products they have purchased but also keeps them informed of any new offerings. This should be an automated process built into the operational system in order to help the franchisee(s) be in constant communication with their clients and service providers without sacrificing valuable time.
Giving feedback
Development of relevant technology should be a collaboration between the franchisor and the franchisees. Although management of the development is in the hands of the franchisor, the franchisees should be actively involved. It is important for both parties to decide what kind of technology will benefit the business and to do a bit of research around future needs of the business, so that relevant technology can be kept in mind.
Technology has the potential to make your business run smoother – it can be cost-effective and time-reducing. It is important, however, to ensure that all staff are comfortable with using it and that training is available for those with any difficulties.
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