Technology & the Franchise Business Model
No doubt about it … technology is playing an increasing important role is every facet of American business including franchising. Basic franchise businesses that don’t seem very complicated use computers, the Internet, websites and email communications to successful function. In fact, virtually all franchise systems use some kind of advanced technology to do business.
Technology and the Home Painting Business … a Case Study
For instance, a national home painting franchise uses technology because its customers like it and can relate to it. According to the firm’s vice president of franchise sales -- technology enables franchisees to provide quicker, better service. And many customers demand technology driven service.
Using a personal digital assistant device (PDA), franchisees can walk into a home, take notes concerning the customer needs and wants, create an estimate, and print out a professional detailed estimate during the initial consultation.
Ultimately, the print out is the official estimate. And because the estimation process is so very professional, the customer expects the service to be very professional also. The home painting franchise has a staff devoted exclusively to the application of technology to their franchise system. Before any technology is introduced into service it has to prove that it can provide better, faster or easier service.
The vice president remembers how slow the process was before technology. And the application of technology must evolve with developments. For instance, this franchise started using PCs, then went to laptops and now depends on the PDA. Future devices are being developed that will feature a camera and phone in addition to all the estimate creating capabilities. Obviously, this will simplify the franchisee’s job as they can send the painting crew images and communicate in real time with the franchisee.
Technology is use to promote the house painting business with a comprehensive website and homepage for not only the company but each individual franchisee. Using electronic communication, site users can arrange an appointment and franchisees can answer questions via email. The firms found out that technology savvy customers check their emails before their voicemails.
Using Technology to Explore Franchise Opportunities …
If you are looking for a franchise opportunity, technology can be your best friend. The search to find a franchise has never been easier thanks to the Internet. Leading research portals, especially www.letsfranchise.com and www.myfranchiseexpert.com can help you pinpoint the perfect franchise opportunity via industry … location … and level of investment. Quickly, easily, and with just a few clicks you can explore an array of intriguing franchise business opportunities.
Best of all, these two comprehensive sites enable you to direct contact the franchise provider to receive more detailed information. On the other side of the equation, leading franchise company also rely on this dynamic websites to find qualified prospects … like you … who wish to be their own boss using the franchise business model.
Just as technology can bring customers and businesses together … it can enable you to explore an array of opportunities in the comfort of your own home. Why not take advantage of everything these great sites have to offer!