Introduction and Overview: Over the past 50 years franchising has evolved into one of the most dynamic, transformative business strategies in the world. We'll take a detailed look at how it started, evolved and transformed into its current form. Then we'll look at why people start a franchise, buy a franchise and use the franchise model.

Franchising and the Alternatives: Why do companies choose to franchise and what are the various alternatives? We'll examine the different alternatives to the franchise model to better understand its value and purpose. We'll review the latest thinking in the business community on corporate structures, chain development, mergers, acquisitions and divestitures.

Overview of Marketing and Brand Development:Understanding where franchising comes from and how it has evolved is a good place to begin the journey. From that vantage point you'll be ready to evaluate the current trends and what they might lead to next in the franchise community.

A Global Perspective: Franchising is uniquely "American", but it has quickly and dynamically expanded globally. We'll review the evolution from a domestic concept to an international application, including the many considerations necessary to expand outside the U.S. market.

Guest Speaker -- John Reynolds, International Franchise Association

Legal Analysis: Franchising has a very unique and distinct legal structure and to some extent it is still an evolving body of work. Learn the details about the laws related to franchising, the structure of a franchise organization and the many legal implications related to the franchise sector.

Guest Instructor -- Mark Forseth, Marriott International

Case Study: Participants will work in teams to consider and address a franchise case study, resulting in presentations by the teams. The case study will deal with the decision making process of addressing the question to "to franchise or not to franchise".

The Economic Impact of Franchising: Franchising has permeated virtually all aspects of society and it's impact can be measured in various ways. We will examine many of the identified elements where franchising has impacted our economy, culture and the global marketplace.

Guest Speaker -- Darrel Johnson, FranData

Case Study: The support provided by franchise companies is a key attraction to many prospective franchisees. This case study will examine various operating styles, systems and techniques and how they form the support network of a franchise organization.

The Social Impact of Franchising: The effects of franchising have dramatically changed our society and we'll review and consider some of these impacts, as well as consider where franchising might be going and how it may play a role in further transformation of our society.

Strategic Planning: This session is designed to consider the strategic planning process for franchise companies, their maturity curve and the numerous challenges that they face including increasing competition, regulation and workforce issues.

Guest Speaker -- Mike Roman, CFE, ExxonMobil Corporation & Chairman of the International Franchise Association Educational Foundation