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There are a lot of franchise options in the market today but a successful franchise is not only dependent on the popularity of the product or service being franchised. The main factor that will make the franchise work is the relationship between the franchiser and the franchisee.

The franchise is a business partnership.  A good working relationship is a true foundation of a successful franchise.  Here are a few tips for a fruitful franchise relationship:

1. Set Expectations- Before the franchisee signs the franchise agreement, the responsible franchiser produces a common scoreboard.  A written clarification of the roles and functions of each party in the franchise relationship is thoroughly discussed.  Explanation on what the franchise is all about and the commitments required to replicate the concept.  The franchise agreement is establsihed clearly to know what is expected of both roles.

2. Open Communication- A two way, open communication is important in a franchiser-franchisee relationship as this will ensure  that the business venture will have few problems in maintaining good relations and business.  This assures transparency between both parties.

3. Be involved- Effective franchise relations demand that both franchiser and franchisee include each other in goal setting as they are business partners.  Franchisers must include franchisees in corporate planning exercises, and when franchisees do their own goal setting, they must involve the franchiser since they use the franchisers business system.  Franchisers and franchisees must move together for the common good.

A franchise has its own culture though they adhere to similar business processes and principles.  The system’s culture justifies the franchise’s procedure which is the result of the franchiser’s years of experience in the business.  Aspiring franchisees must understand and accept this culture before signing the franchise agreement, as they have to live with it for as long as they remain franchisees.  Both parties should understand their roles and responsibilities to make the business relationship work as this ensures the success of the franchise.