For decades, the franchise model has adapted to change slowly. However, new technology has made it possible for both new and existing franchises to operate smarter and increase revenues. Although some franchise owners may be hesitant to adapt to these changes, most believe that future success will depend on embracing the cloud and other web-based tools.
Restaurants Can Improve Customer Service Through Apps
Traditionally, if you wanted quick service at a restaurant, you had to show up early in the evening or ask for a reservation. Even then, you don't really know when you will be seated or how long it will take to get your food. However, an app released by NoWait allows wait staff to accurately determine how long an individual will have to wait for a table.
It also allows people to add their name to a waiting list from their mobile phones. Therefore, you don't have to arrive at a dining establishment until your table is ready. This is perfect for busy parents or professionals who don't have a lot of time to waste on school nights or before a night shift begins.
Franchises can benefit from this service because they don't have to give out physical pagers that can be lost or stolen. They also don't run the risk of losing patrons who may decide to leave if the wait time is too long or they aren't sure how long the wait will actually be.
A POS System Can Help Franchises Learn More and Save Money
A point-of-sale system makes it easier to get accurate and detailed data about customers and their preferences. This allows a business to only buy products that will sell through or that offer the highest margins. It also enables a franchise owner to cut costs through reduced labor costs and better customer service.
When a customer is happy with the product or service purchased, he or she generally won't complain or ask for a refund. When a company knows when and where customers are most likely to purchase products, it can schedule staff accordingly, which means that employees aren't overworked or standing around doing nothing.
Floor refinishing services companies and other businesses that clean commercial spaces also benefit from this information. They can sweep, wax or refinish floors during times when customers aren't in the space or during times when the business occupying that space is closed.
Communicate With Employees and Corporate Headquarters
The use of web-based apps makes it easier for franchisees and the corporate parent company to communicate with each other. They can share sales data, consumer complaints or any other data that may be relevant or helpful to either party.
Employees can get their schedules online and look at pay stubs and other personal information online wherever they are. It may also be possible for employees to get approval to make changes to their schedules through such apps, which keeps everyone on the same page as to who is working and when.
This can be especially useful for upholstery cleaner companies
or other businesses that may work at multiple locations. The last thing a business owner wants is for nobody to show up for a job or have too few people to do the job properly because of a lack of communication between employees and management.
Technology is making it easier for franchises to get more done and improve customer satisfaction at the same time. As technology continues to evolve, those that don't take advantage of the resources at their disposal run the risk of having to shut down. Those that do embrace change may find it easier than ever to manage a business without burning out.
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