Taking advantage of disruptive tech when starting a business
Many franchisors employ disruptive technology in the form of machine learning and data analytics to help inform marketing campaigns and find appropriate places to allow franchisees to open new locations. Just as disruptive tech is advantageous to franchisors, it can prove beneficial to franchisees as well.
The ability to recognize trends is an important part of deciding on a franchise, and franchisees who are able to identify disruptive technology find success by truly having their finger on the pulse of modern culture. This month BOSS takes a look at franchising opportunities in disruptive fields that might appeal to entrepreneurs hoping to become successful franchisees.
E-learning
As new technology enters the workplace and new roles are created, there is a constant need for training. It’s often not feasible to send workers offsite for conferences or to invite specialists to come to the workplace and provide lessons. Accordingly, e-learning has become a popular way of training and cross-training employees.
Aspiring franchisees have the opportunity to become owners of e-learning franchises such as Flex Training Professional Services and take advantage of the growing appetite for e-learning platforms in corporate America. Becoming a franchisee in such e-learning businesses doesn’t require a lot of technical knowledge or a background in computer science, and even custom-made courses can usually be designed using point-and-click software.
Virtual Reality
It’s rare to have a discussion about disruptive technology without mention of virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR). The tech has already had a profound impact on industries from construction to healthcare and continues to find new uses. However, many people still consider the primary use of VR to be entertainment and as the technology improves, VR gyms and arcades are popping up across the US to the delight of gamers and those looking for a quick escape from the daily grind.
Sandbox VR and The Deep VR are two franchising options for those looking to open a VR business of their own. Customers enter rooms outfitted in the latest VR gear and explore virtual worlds where they can work as a team or against one another, trying to solve puzzles and escape labyrinths or engaging in combat that takes the form of upgraded and more realistic laser tag.
Digital Marketing
Sure, at this point it’s nothing new, but digital marketing continues to evolve and find new ways to change the strategies and tools businesses need to employ to make their company stand out. Many small to mid-sized businesses don’t have the resources or space to hire specialists in SEO, web analytics, PPC advertising, and more, so they turn to professionals.
Franchises such as Digital Marketing Training Group and WSI Digital Marketing offer training in digital marketing and the latest technology and trends to come to the field so franchisees have the best chance of succeeding in their foray into the marketing field. Most franchises will even help franchisees with lead generation and other sales skills needed to acquire clients and get the business underway.
Social Media
Another disruptor that isn’t necessarily new but is finding new ways to have an impact, social media spreads brand awareness directly through company accounts and indirectly through influencers. Since not every business owner is savvy enough to properly promote on social media, they sometimes outsource the work.
Social Owl allows franchisees to start their own social media marketing business at a cost much lower than most franchise fees ($149). The franchisor provides a branded website domain and marketing material as well as the social media software and client portal necessary to get the business going. Training and ongoing support is provided as franchisees offer reputation monitoring, social sales and sweepstakes, analytics, and more.
Further Disruption
When it comes to disruption, there’s always something new right around the bend and as soon as it arrives businesses are looking to make a profit from it as eagerly as others are looking to employ the new technology. As a result, new franchise opportunities regularly arise for those with an ear to the ground ready to capitalize on the next must-have development.
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