Online Training For Franchises Will Pay Dividends

Franchising World Magazine:

It’s a typical sunny Friday afternoon in Southern California and the shipment of new training manuals has just arrived for the franchisee training class on Monday morning. As the 1st box is opened, the recipient takes a deep breath realizing the eight-month project has finally come to a conclusion. As he exhales, one of his ‘helpful’ co-workers flips open a manual and kindly points out that Chapter 3 contains obsolete data. ‘Excuse me?’ Apparently, the company changed equipment partners after Chapter 3 was finalized 4 months ago so all the guidelines that were created are now outdated. Oops, I guess someone forgot to send him the memo.

Sound familiar? Many companies decide to transition to an online training program after going through similar experiences and realizing that their information continues to change more rapidly than they can keep up with it. This is certainly a valid reason to consider shifting strategies. However, it is important to carefully consider what impact this change will really mean to both the organization as well as to the franchisee community. Franchisors may be prepared for the shift in training platforms, but are the franchisees equally prepared? If both parties are not on board, the franchise risks having a great program conclude with undesirable results.

As consideration of online training has begun as a serious option for the company, take some time to consider the scope of what this change will really mean to the organization. Warning, one may experience dizziness and even nausea trying to connect all the dots. Don’t worry, these feelings are perfectly normal and will begin to pass as one becomes more prepared for the adventure. Try to organize thoughts by focusing on a few main points that are relevant to the early stages of planning. Carry on reading about the things you need to know before launching…