Technology Helps Franchisees Run Their Businesses Efficiently and Effectively
The use of technology in franchising is widespread. Even businesses that seem surprisingly un-technical, utilize computers, software programs, Intranets, websites, and email vehicles for use in communication, management, advertising, and day-to-day running of the business. From travel agencies to home improvement businesses, almost every franchise system imaginable uses at least some technology in their business system.
Technology, a Surprising Cornerstone in the Home Painting Business
"Using technology is a real tenet for us here at CertaPro Painters, not because our competitors use it, but because our customers, the homeowners, love it. Technology allows our franchisees to provide quicker, better service. Customers today really expect fast, technology-based service," said Mark Titcomb, Vice President of Franchise Sales at CertaPro Painters.
The company's integral tool is a Fujitzu Tablet, which is a lot like a large PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) that works with a stylus pen instead of a keyboard. CertaPro Painters can walk into a home with the tablet, take notes regarding the customers needs and wants, create an estimate, and print out a professional, detailed estimate during the visit. "Average painters will write a number on the back of their business card. This is their official estimate. Our franchisees have a huge competitive advantage over these painters because our estimates are so professional and detailed and our customers know this is the kind of service they will receive," explained Titcomb.
With four staff members devoted solely to the technology aspects of the business system, Titcomb said, "We don't use technology because it's a gimmick. We are very careful in only using technology when it makes our business better, faster, or easier."
"I was involved in this business before we had this technology. Everything was done on paper, and it was a slow and inefficient way of doing business. Seeing the differences that technology has made in our business model, we've made sure that our technology evolves with the available technology on the market. We started with computers, then laptops, and we kept evolving until we reached the Fujitzu. Today, we are in the midst of developing a handheld PDA for employees in the field. The device will have a camera, phone, and all the capabilities of a typical PDA. This will greatly simplify the franchisee's life because they don't have to be with their crew all the time...the crew can send pictures and communicate in real time with the franchisee."
CertaPro Painters not only offers technology to their franchisees on the job. Their business system also utilizes the latest in tools and software; "We have a high-end homepage for the company and each of our individual franchisees. Customers can book appointments right online, and each franchisee can access this information and answer any customer questions via email on their tablet. People today check email before voicemail and we recognize this," commented Titcomb.
Using Technology to Find a Business
If you're ready to start your search for a franchise that utilizes technology, now is a great time: The search to find a franchise has been made simpler and more efficient by the Internet. Robert Denton, a KidzArt franchisee,used the Internet to find his ideal business easily and without the initial pressure associated with calling franchisors and requesting additional information. Denton explained, "Franchise Solutions' website is a lot like using a menu at a restaurant. It's so easy to navigate. Like a restaurant menu, you can narrow down your choice based upon interests and price range. It wasn't overwhelming to use and is very user-friendly. The link between Franchise Solutions and the franchisors was clean... We received almost immediate electronic replies from the franchises we were interested in, knowing that they did receive our information in a timely manner. We explored a bunch of opportunities and KidzArt just fit into our world the best. It fit our lifestyle, and is much desired in our area of the country. We've just hit the ground running! KidzArt is a really amazing franchise. We feel really blessed to have found this opportunity. Our area of the country is booming, and this franchise is a great fit for us and our location."
Start Using Technology Today!
If you're ready to start utilizing today's technology, start your search today!
