The franchise operations manual forms the backbone of the franchise model. It is an extension of the franchise agreement, and is the opportunity for a franchisor to imprint quality standards for a profitable business – and and yet it is often sadly neglected.
This document (which can be many documents, pictures and video clips) details what the business is – from the history, values, quality standards and core business offering, through to marketing, culture and expected behaviours. The manual can help streamline your business, making it scalable and profitable. It should cover all aspects of the business, including technical advice, HR, training, marketing, business standards, knowledge management, ‘how to’ guides, FAQ’s, policies and so much more.
There is no one-size fits all. Whilst there is a guide on content, every business operates in a slightly different way. It is critical that the manual reflects the process but also the culture and style of the business, whilst being a useful tool.
Developed correctly, an operations manual provides guidance to anyone unfamiliar with the day-to-day operation of a business, as well as ensuring that processes are consistent, legal, and meet a minimum required standard. It answers those questions most asked, but also those least asked.
Importantly, the operations manual is a living document – updated regularly to reflect changes in practice, policy and the world around us.
Sample options offered by Franchise Projects include:
- Writing an operations manual from scratch
- Process mapping to define operational standards
- Developing an operations manual from a template
- Reviewing, rewriting and/or updating the operations manual
- Designing an operations manual
- Moving the operations manual online
Please contact us for a no obligation discussion regarding your specific needs.
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