5 Things To Consider When Joining A Franchise Business

So you've decided on joining a franchise business, instead of starting up your own business, or working for someone else? Well, before you go signing on the dotted line there are a few things you should carefully think about first. Here are 5 things to consider when joining a franchise business.

Firstly, will your chosen franchise business fit in with your lifestyle? Will your business be operated from home, on premises or on the road? What hours will your new venture require? Obviously the first few months/year will take considerably more of your time up. How important is your work/life balance? It's important you consider the effects it will have on your home life/family and relationships too.

Financing – 
do you have sufficient funds to join the franchise and pay all the running costs you'll incur? Does the franchisor offer any financial help? You won't start making money right from the get go, and it may be more than a year or so before you start turning a profit. Therefore you need to make sure you have enough financial backing to cover all the costs of running your new franchise business.

Training and support –
Do you have the necessary business skills for the business? Will your new career require any specific qualifications or training? If so, does the franchisee offer this? If not, how long, and how much will it cost to undertake this? Some franchise businesses offer continued support and training, if they do not, then (depending on whether your business requires it) it will be down to you to gain the correct qualifications, legal requirements etc. You need to be prepared to keep up with any changes in business too.

Control –
how much control will you have over the direction of the franchise? You need to take into account restrictions that may be imposed, such as restrictions on goods and services, operation of the business, where you can/can't open up. Are you willing to comply with such terms? What happens if you breach agreements?

Length of contract/termination –
How long is the franchise agreement for? What happens at the end of your contract? Can you renew? What if you change your mind and want out? Will you lose all your investment? Can you sell your franchise business?

There are many things to consider when joining a franchise business. But if you have the money, abilities and desire to succeed, then at least you can confidently and happily put pen to paper, and sign on that dotted franchisee line!

STOP marine electrolysis!!

Let's exclude the technical aspects of marine electrolysis formation and concentrate on how it can be prevented. Of course it is important to  understand this phenomenon, but our intention is provide the benchmarks that will assure success towards boat metal parts  preservation. 
Marine electrolysis can be avoided in most cases combining practical techniques, but most importantly through monitoring.  Underwater monitoring and  anode replacement is not enough; complementary external and internal boat inspections are essential to have all your bases covered.

To do so it is necessary to separate actions in both elements: "Marine Electrolysis Prevention above deck" and  "Marine Electrolysis Prevention below deck".

Marine electrolysis prevention tips - Above deck

Make sure that bonded thru-hulls, underwater lights, trim tabs and other boat parts remain properly connected and the wires are in good shape.  Perform inspections carefully and regularly. Search for power cords in contact with the water around your boat and make sure to pull them out if so.

Meet your neighbors; find out if their boat metal parts are electrolysis-free and if they are well maintained vessels.

Using a Galvanic Isolator is a great way to isolate your vessel from others; blocking low voltage DC currents coming on board your boat through  the shore power ground wire. Just make sure that the selected equipment meets the ABYC (American Boat & Yacht Council) specifications.

Marine electrolysis prevention tips - Below deck

It is important to understand that different marinas, docks and slips create particular electrolysis environments and boat metal parts are  affected differently. It is almost impossible to establish a pattern when measuring marine electrolysis. Each case should be taken on an individual  basis.

Underwater zinc monitoring is King when it comes to electrolysis prevention.

Zinc monitoring involves a meticulous evaluation of each zinc: mass, installation and electrolysis reaction.

It is recommended to replace zincs at 50%.

Zincs must be brushed during the hull cleaning visit to determine how much zinc life is left.

The contact between metals (zinc/boat metal part) must be spotlessly clean.
 Maintain original manufacturer zinc configuration, do not overload the system.
Make sure your diver understands the basics of the process.
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