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Since launching in 2009, <a href="https://www.bigblueswimschool.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-big-blue-swim-schools-lessonbuddy-utilizes-cloud-based-technology-for-optimal-success-2712803" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Big Blue Swim School’s</a> mission-driven business model has leveraged its proprietary technology to help create big, life-changing moments for kids and families. The&nbsp; brand’s <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/five-reasons-why-investors-should-be-looking-at-big-blue-swim-school-in-2019-2709470">proprietary enterprise system, LessonBuddy™</a> offers both franchise partners and families access to a platform that is technologically superior to that of the competition. Their unique platform is one of the reasons <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool">Big Blue Swim School</a> has become a market leader in an underserved and fragmented swim school industry valued at $3 billion annually.&nbsp;“Big Blue is disrupting the swim school space with its cloud-based enterprise system that is designed to deliver a best-in-class swim lesson experience for our families while also providing real-time information for our associates and franchise partners,” said Chief Technology Officer Casey Morford. “We’re able to unite the most important functions of our business model into one in-house technology system, which is impossible to find with a third-party platform.”LessonBuddy allows franchise partners to manage their day-to-day business through dashboards and KPIs, for <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/big-blue-swim-schools-item-19-how-a-gold-medal-investment-translates-to-industry-leading-financials-2710789">total transparency in terms of ROI and the overall health of the business.</a>“Our proprietary, cloud-based ERP allows us to run <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/the-10-reasons-to-buy-a-big-blue-swim-school-in-2020-2712003#franchisor">a high-scale, high-margin model at a market price point</a>,” said CEO Chris Kenny. “There are also components available to facilitate the day-to-day operations, such as staff and resource scheduling, reporting and CRM optimization.”Streamlining operations is just one of LessonBuddy’s many benefits. “The power of Big Blue’s enterprise system is securely available anywhere there is an internet connection,” said Morford. “The beauty of having a cloud-based platform is that <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/how-big-blue-swim-school-uses-data-and-analytics-to-stay-ahead-of-the-competition-2711942#brand-latest-stories">our consumer data and analytics are centrally stored and analyzed</a>, which gives our franchise partners intelligence to help them make important business decisions on the spot.”&nbsp;In turn, as a franchisor, Big Blue also receives a birds-eye view into the data, allowing the team to identify trends and spot patterns that can be relayed across the entire system for the brand’s greater success.“Every 30 minutes, we receive progression data about students and how they are performing in the pool,” said Justin Waltz, Vice President of Franchise Operations. “Big Blue uses that data to modify staffing levels to make sure we are hitting our goals every day of the week and that kids are also hitting their swim goals.”The cloud-based technology of LessonBuddy is one of the many reasons the Big Blue investment opportunity is ideal for <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/how-big-blue-swim-school-s-semi-absentee-investor-model-allows-franchise-partners-to-maximize-their-time-and-their-capital-2710471">multi-unit and semi-absentee franchise partners looking to maximize their time and their capital</a>. “LessonBuddy helps semi-absentee owners operate successful pools without being on-site every day,” said Kenny.Big Blue’s LessonBuddy platform also includes easy integration with other cloud-based applications. This integration-forward approach ensures the brand is able to adapt and scale the technology platform to accommodate future market trends and the needs of franchise partners as they grow.&nbsp;“We are a software company as well as a swim lesson company,” said Kenny. “Franchise owners can be intimidated by the need to build a tech stack, but unlike other franchisors, Big Blue supplies a <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/how-big-blue-swim-school-provides-a-simplistic-turn-key-franchise-opportunity-2709488#franchisor">proven, turnkey solution with LessonBuddy</a>. We cover two percent of the tech fees, while the franchise partner covers the other two percent, <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/big-blue-swim-school-s-parent-friendly-class-scheduling-model-maximizes-franchisee-profitability-2709667">allowing us to dominate with a combined investment to maximize profitability</a>.”While other franchisors use a third-party vendor to manage technology platforms, Big Blue’s in-house proprietary enterprise system gives franchise partners access to an unprecedented depth of consumer data and analytics. “If a brand’s quality of operations and customer experience is dependent on a third-party provider’s roadmap, it is much harder to execute an effective technology strategy or differentiate from the competition,” said Kenny.On the consumer-facing side, LessonBuddy allows families to schedule and reschedule lessons easily with the touch of a button on their smartphone or tablet.“Scheduling can be a complicated and stressful process for parents, especially if they’re trying to schedule lessons for multiple children at the same time,” said Morford. “In addition to our <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/bigger-is-better-for-big-blue-swim-school-2708478#brand-latest-stories">optimized pool capacity planning</a>, LessonBuddy helps overcome these challenges by creating the ability to schedule any number of students at the same time in just a few clicks, without complicated spreadsheets or calendars.”A cloud-based technology platform means that Big Blue’s base features are uniform across each type of user and customer. “While we may tailor the user experience for a family or aninternal user, a uniform, cloud-based process makes the experience better whether they’re at the pool, on the phone or on our website using our self-service portal,” said Morford.This focus on technology, which is rare in the swim school segment, combined with <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/how-us-national-champion-swimmer-chris-dejong-launched-big-blue-swim-school-and-created-a-multi-million-dollar-business-despite-a-recession-2712004#franchisor">a best-in-class program,</a> <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/big-blue-swim-school-builds-impressive-board-of-directors-to-guide-strategic-growth-and-ensure-swim-school-category-leadership-2711940#brand-latest-stories">strong board of directors</a>, <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/wendy-and-erik-skaalerud-sign-lease-for-denver-areas-first-big-blue-swim-school-in-centennial-colorado-2711907#brand-latest-stories">a targeted growth model</a>, and <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/how-big-blue-swim-school-s-pre-opening-marketing-strategy-led-to-the-most-successful-opening-in-brand-history-2709508#mainTrending">data-driven real estate selection</a>, explains why <a href="https://1851franchise.com/bigblueswimschool/big-blue-swim-school-on-pace-to-hit-150-units-by-2021-thanks-to-backing-from-level-5-capital-partners-2710793#stories">Big Blue is well on its way to meeting its goal of growing to 150 units sold by 2021</a>.&nbsp;Multi-unit opportunities are available for qualified candidates looking for their next big opportunity, and veterans can receive a 10 percent discount on the $75,000 franchise fee. The total investment for one Big Blue Swim School ranges from $1,825,500 to $3,687,000 (refer to item 7 in FDD). To learn more or inquire about Big Blue Swim School, visit <a href="http://yourbigmomentstartshere.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=how-big-blue-swim-schools-lessonbuddy-utilizes-cloud-based-technology-for-optimal-success-2712803" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com</a>.

Big Blue Swim School Technology LessonBuddy

How Big Blue Swim School’s LessonBuddy™ Utilizes Cloud-Based Technology for Optimal Success

1851 Franchise

The swim school franchise’s proprietary enterprise system puts the entire management platform in the cloud so owners can operate successful pools without needing a daily presence and parents can easily schedule lessons.

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How Keke’s Breakfast Cafe Builds Local Demand Through National Marketing Leadership

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Children's Lighthouse

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Extraordinary Brands

Extraordinary Brands Acquires Basecamp Fitness, Adding The High-Growth HIIT Concept to its Boutique Fitness Portfolio

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How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

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Building&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-do-you-build-a-franchise-business-plan-2717037">a business plan</a> is a crucial operational step for any entrepreneur. But how do I build a business plan for a franchise that complements the franchisor’s system while addressing the unique needs of a given location? In this guide with expert tips, you’ll learn how to craft a thoughtful, actionable franchise business plan.<h2>Start With The Franchisor’s System In Mind</h2>So, how do I build a business plan for a franchise? Well, avoiding repetition is a good start.“You specifically don’t want to duplicate what your franchisor is doing,” said long-time multi-unit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.solafranchising.com/">Sola Salons</a> franchise owner,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/haynes-chidsey-6a36a06/">Haynes Chidsey</a>. “There’s a reason why you join a franchise system and why you pay the fees and costs associated with it.”A strong franchise business plan should take advantage of the resources, marketing and operational systems that the franchisor provides (while utilizing daily experiences at the local level to help fine-tune what matters locally).<h2>Focus On Local Priorities</h2>A franchise business plan should be&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/strategicfranchising/how-to-build-a-strong-franchise-brand-presence-in-your-local-community-2729771">locally focused</a>. It should reflect the unique characteristics and needs of each local market. It’s essential to identify opportunities to attract local customers, build relationships within the community at the local level and tailor services to the regional preferences required by each market.“Be complementary to what your system provides,” said Chidsey. “Stay locally focused. That’s what I would say is key. Avoid mistakes by focusing on the magic.”<h2>Practical Steps For Building Your Plan</h2><ol><li>Assess Both Market And Competition – Build a thorough understanding of local demand, competitors and potential customer base. This will lead to more informed projections. &nbsp;</li><li>Define Financial Goals – Include startup costs, ongoing fees and revenue expectations in the business plan. Staffing, rent, marketing and working capital should all be factored in. &nbsp;</li><li>Leverage Franchisor Resources – Incorporate the systems, training and support offered by the franchisor (instead of reinventing processes). &nbsp;</li><li>Set Operational Priorities – Decide which areas require hands-on local management (as opposed to areas guided by the franchisor). Focus energy where it’s most impactful. &nbsp;</li><li>Review And Adjust – A business plan shouldn’t be static. So, track performance, adjust strategies and refine priorities as the franchised business scales.</li></ol><h2>The Takeaway</h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chapter-3-developing-a-franchise-business-plan-2722586">Creating a franchise business plan</a> is about balance. With a clear plan that integrates franchisor resources and local insight, franchisees can confidently move forward, knowing their businesses are structured to thrive. Leveraging a proven franchisor system to make smart, locally relevant decisions is key. By slowing down to go fast, and catering to the local trends or demands unique to each market, zees can more effectively build a roadmap and franchise business plan capable of delivering long-term success.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How do I build a business plan for a franchise?

How do I build a business plan for a franchise? In this guide with expert tips, learn how to build a plan that leverages franchisor resources, focuses on local priorities and brings long-term success.

How Do I Build a Business Plan For a Franchise? A Guide For Prospective Franchisees

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Understanding&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-money-do-i-need-to-buy-a-franchise-a-guide-2730910">the total investment</a> required for a franchise is one of the first questions prospective franchise owners ask. While the answer can vary widely depending on brand, industry and market, knowing what goes into it can help entrepreneurs evaluate opportunities realistically (and avoid costly surprises).So, what&nbsp;is the total investment required for a franchise? The total investment reflects everything needed to open and operate the business and adequately navigate its early stages, from buildout to working capital.<h2>Why The Total Investment Matters</h2>Transparency is important. Investment details should be front and center early in the discovery process. It should also be a significant element of the franchise development website for any business opportunity.“The most visited page is the initial investment/start-up cost,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://thejointfranchise.com/">The Joint Chiropractic</a> Senior Vice President, Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmsherwood/">Craig Sherwood</a>. “This is not a surprise. This question is almost always the first a candidate will ask during the initial phone call. It’s critical for a brand to be transparent with not just the initial investment information but the royalties and fees associated with becoming a franchisee.”Developing an accurate understanding of the full financial picture required allows potential zees to assess affordability, tolerance for risk and long-term expectations (before moving ahead or signing a franchise agreement).<h2>What Goes Into The Total Investment?</h2>While every franchise system is different, the total investment required typically includes several core components. “The investment range includes three months of operating costs, the franchise fee and related expenses,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.simplycabinetryfranchising.com/">Simply Cabinetry</a> owner and CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianasimmons-simplycabinetry/">Diana Simmons</a>. So, what is the total investment required for a franchise?&nbsp;Here are five components:<ul><li>Franchise Fee – The upfront fee paid to join the franchisor system and access the brand, training and support available. &nbsp;</li><li>Buildout and Equipment – Costs tied to general construction, leasehold improvements, signage, fixtures and equipment. &nbsp;</li><li>Inventory and Opening Supplies – The initial product, materials or inventory required to open. &nbsp;</li><li>Working Capital – The funds needed to cover payroll, marketing and operating expenses during the first few months of operation. &nbsp;</li><li>Ongoing Fees – Royalties, marketing contributions, technology expenditures and other recurring fees outlined in the franchise disclosure document (FDD).</li></ul><h2>Making An Informed Investment Decision</h2>So, what is the total investment required for a franchise?&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-capital-is-needed-to-buy-a-franchise-2716989">The amount required</a> to launch a franchise opportunity can range from tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars, or more, depending on the industry, concept and recognition of the brand. That’s why a thorough review of FDD Item 7 (estimated initial investment) and consultation of experienced franchise counsel is crucial.A clear understanding of the total investment required to start a franchise can help candidates navigate the process more effectively. By asking questions early and thoroughly evaluating costs, franchisees can determine whether a brand aligns with their financial goals, laying the foundation for long-term success.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

What is the total investment required for a franchise?

What is the total investment required for a franchise? In this guide with expert tips, learn the costs of starting a franchise, including the fees, buildout, capital and ongoing expenses required.

How Big Blue Swim School’s LessonBuddy™ Utilizes Cloud-Based Technology for Optimal Success

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