As a solution often categorized as a CRM, we have lots to say about this topic. Sure, there’s overlap between ServiceMinder and a traditional CRM but the differences are vital to franchises.
Put simply, if you searched for "home service CRM" in a dictionary, numerous excellent solutions would appear front and center. However, "excellent" doesn't necessarily mean they are suitable for franchises. If you searched for "Franchise Operation System" or “Franchise Management System”, ServiceMinder would be highlighted at the top because we understand the unique and efficient franchise model.
Now, we aren’t just boasting, but as a platform specifically designed for home services franchises, that’s onboarded over 50 brands, we feel it's our duty to outline the differences between a franchise operating system and a CRM.
Discover how an FOS can save you valuable time and money while streamlining your brand's operations, enabling it to thrive at scale.
The Power of Understanding Franchising
If this blog caught your attention, we assume you’re a franchise community member. Therefore, you understand and appreciate the uniqueness of the franchise model and the importance of the Zor/Zee relationship.
This is why a FOS is absolutely crucial for operations. The major difference between a CRM and an FOS is the parent/child accessibility. AKA a solution that supports Zee’s daily workflow while giving Zors a bird's-eye view of the franchise at the brand and location level.
ServiceMinder is considered a franchise operating system for many reasons, but when it comes to growing a franchise, this is #1. This allows Zors to be completely in the know and enforces consistency by offering one centralized solution for marketing, lead gen, reporting, training, and more.
Now to the crowd favorite, operations! Just kidding, we know it’s not exciting but it is crucial. That’s why it’s important to find a solution that can streamline operations, franchise operations that is.
This may seem like any CRM can do this, which can be true but can they solve franchise operation hurdles? We think not!
A FOS will be your best friend, from brand level to location level access at the ZOR level to enforcing consistency on one centralized platform.
Strategic Partners
We discussed ServiceMinder’s appreciation and support for the Zor/Zee relationship but as an FMS another relationship we prioritize is our responsibilities as an IFA supplier.
The Supplier/Franchise relationship is crucial for a franchise’s success. Especially a FOS that is responsible for daily workflow.
The ServiceMinder team identifies as more of a strategic partner than a vendor. This means we don’t just provide a login to our platform, we work with every brand as if they are our own because even though the franchise model is universal every brand has a unique workflow that works for them and their zees.
Franchise-Focused Features
It’s called a franchise operations system for a reason! Why pay for a solution that doesn’t directly support your business model? Set your brand up to succeed with a fully equipped solution to operate and manage franchises.
Of course, we need basic CRM fundamentals that our zees can rely on to perform their daily tasks but wouldn’t it be great if this solution benefitted Zors as well? This is the Parent/child view we mentioned before. Anyone at the Zor level knows how important it is to have a pulse on your entire brand and individual locations.
For example, with ServiceMinder Zor’s can analyze brand success at a dashboard level to more granularly by impersonating any Zee’s account. By accessing this feature, Zor’s can evaluate a location’s success, but also identify any issues whether it’s financial, employee-related, and more.
Another FRANtastic feature is Royalty Reporting. With ServiceMinder, Zee’s can automatically calculate and submit royalty reports without lifting a finger. Must we explain how this benefits both parties?
Ready to See What You're Missing?
If you’re ready to unlock your franchise's potential, then feel free to book a discovery call here