The International Franchise Association (IFA) defines a franchise as “a contractual relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee in which the franchisor offers or is obliged to maintain a continuing interest in the business of the franchisee in such areas as know-how and training; wherein the franchisee operates under a common trade name, format or procedure owned by or controlled by the franchisor, and in which the franchisee has made or will make a substantial capital investment in his business from his own resources.”
For the most part, there are essentially three different types of franchise arrangements: business format, product distribution, and product manufacturing. While this might be just a short list, the number of types and structures of businesses falling into these categories is huge. Franchising is used in almost every industry and business sector. As FranchiseDirect.com says, “Name an industry from drug testing to dog walking, and there’s likely a franchise in it.”
Working with franchise businesses requires a great deal of business and technical capability in order to successfully support the variety of situations that arise. Mendelson Consulting has been working with franchises for almost 30 years, and has a simple set of rules to make sure things get done right.
Rule 1: Recognize that every business is unique
Franchises need consultants that understand and can support the franchises’ specific operation and structure. At Mendelson Consulting, we understand the franchise model and have experience with multi-state, multi-region, and global expansion models. Our team does more than just provide software, data conversion and training. We also provide advice on business processes and technology, both of which are especially important as a franchise grows. We don’t underestimate the complexity of the business, even family-owned and operated, which come with their own unique dynamics. Standardization of processes is key to franchise success, yet a model that doesn’t replicate well will only generates problems down the line. Mendelson Consulting is uniquely positioned to help with workflow and process, a well as technology and systems, to support continued franchise growth.
Rule 2: Apply industry-specific experience
While experience working with franchises is important, so is sector experience. The financial reporting, regulatory and compliance aspects of the business will vary, as do operational aspects and the technologies which support them. From back-office accounting and reporting solutions to order management, EDI and eCommerce integrations, Mendelson Consulting has the experience and expertise to help franchises do more, better.
Rule 3: Research and be prepared
The global business environment is changing at a rapid pace, with remote work, increased online commerce, and logistics challenges presenting only part of the adjustments businesses are having to make. The global pandemic has fueled many changes in how businesses may operate, while the economy and the franchise sector have continued to grow. Recognizing trends that impact franchise business operations is key to adapting and overcoming challenges. Mendelson Consulting has been helping franchise businesses for years and recognizes that the ability to intelligently apply modern technologies and approaches are key to business success.
Rule 4: Drive success with process innovation
Even as information management paradigms continue to shift, Mendelson Consulting helps clients achieve better business performance and profitability through innovating workflows and increasing process efficiency. This area represents not simply cost and efficiency improvements but speaks to the quality of service and sustainability and creating better and repeatable outcomes that can support the operation even as operating conditions may change.
Every business activity and operation is in some way supported with software and systems, and Mendelson Consulting has the experience and expertise to help identify and implement the ones that close the gaps, streamline the work and provide the insight to propel the company forward.
