Join colleagues in Las Vegas to build the future together.

Why would anyone want to come to the International Franchise Association's 47th Annual Convention? As the time to make a decision about attending the event draws near, one may be wondering:

* Is it worth the cost?

* Can one really afford to spend so much time away from the business?

* Is this conference suited for franchisees and suppliers as well as franchise systems?

The answer to all of the above questions is "yes."

The conference offers learning and networking opportunities for established franchisors, new franchisors, franchisees, and even suppliers. Don't miss getting connected to one of most important organizations in the franchise sector. Join the franchise companies, franchisees, and suppliers, who attend this annual convention,

The Established Franchisor

The IFA convention offers many varied opportunities for the established franchise organization that is developing its business and looking for ways to encourage and manage growth.

Below is just a sampling of issues that are addressed during workshops, roundtable and panel discussions:

* International Expansion: master franchise licenses; changing rules and regulations; language translation; international legal issues

* Technology Abounds: intranet systems; using the Internet for marketing; point of sale technology

* Organizational growth strategies: implementing regional franchise councils; multi-unit development strategies

* Marketing, marketing, marketing: systems and methods; branding strategies

* Sales: techniques; maintaining fresh lead sources

* Real estate: establishing territories; improved site selection; using the latest technology

The Start-Up Franchisor

For entrepreneurs who want to expand their business model into franchising, the association's conference is the perfect vehicle for exploring the early stages of franchising, meeting mentors and sometimes just learning the basics.

Here are a few examples of workshop, panel, and round table discussion topics:

* How do you know if your business model is capable of being franchised? What do you need to begin?

* Legal issues: What type of legal advice is crucial? What is the importance of the Uniform Franchise Offering Circular? How does one ensure that the company is in compliance with federal and state franchise laws and regulations?

* Staff Recruitment: What positions are necessary at the beginning and at each stage of development? What are the qualifications for each of these positions? What is the role of search firms in hiring your key employees? What are the crucial benchmarks?

* Marketing: How do I generate leads? What is the role of franchise consultants? Which marketing vehicles will provide the highest number of leads for the least amount of money?

* Support: What programs and materials must be available to franchisees? What is the process for opening franchises as quickly and as smoothly as possible?

The Franchisee

Both new and more experienced franchisees will find plenty to learn from at the conference. For those who own only one unit to multi-unit owners and developers, here are just a few of the workshops planned specifically for you:

* Financial strategies for ongoing growth and development

* Becoming a multiple-unit owner

Suppliers: learn what's new

* Marketing: branding; marketing techniques

* Staffing: hiring; building incentive programs; building morale

Programs to suit every need

There are many special learning opportunities and networking events that will make time spent during the IFA conference an unforgettable experience.

New members and first-time attendees may initially feel overwhelmed by the size of the conference. For these newcomers, the mentoring program is essential. This program pairs new members with a mentor. Newcomers will be glad to know that someone is there to show them the way and be available to answer any questions before, during and even after the conference. To date, I am in contact with many of the members that I have mentored, and continue to share ideas and to learn from one another. Though there are often more than 2,000 people in attendance, no one is a stranger.

The Annual Leadership Conference, hosted by the Women's Franchisee Committee, is usually a sell-out event, so don't forget to sign up early. Both men and women are welcome to attend. At the Taste of Franchising, no one leaves hungry or without meeting interesting people in the national and international franchising sector.

The Opening General Session is always a hit. In prior years, the association has learned from such prominent speakers as former President George and First Lady Barbara Bush, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, political commentators James Carville and Mary Matalin and many others. This session provokes lively conversations and jumpstarts the networking process.

Roundtable discussions are one of the most popular events at the conference. Topics include operational issues, relationship issues, public relations and brand development, franchise sales, finance, international issues and general issues on franchising. The small-group size encourages interaction and allows the participants to feel comfortable sharing ideas.

The suppliers and their exhibits are the most varied one will experience during the conference and they are all geared to the needs of the franchising community. There is everything from promotional companies that will supply franchise organizations with mugs, pens, shirts, and giveaways; to printing companies taking orders for business cards, stationary, and thank-you cards; to health insurance programs for franchisees or employees. Participants will meet advertisers, Web developers, interior designers, or maybe even sit down with a supplier and figure out which uniform best fits the brand.

The FranPAC auction raises funds for the association's political action committee which contributes to the campaigns of franchise lawmakers. It is crucial to expand the presence of the franchising sector in Washington. Legislative action and advocacy are critical for the growth of franchised businesses.

The Institute for Certified Franchise Executives recognizes those who have obtained their franchising degree. Just by attending the conference one will be on his way to earning credits in designated sessions such as the legal, technology and financial summits. These are essential elements of the franchise management philosophy, and lead participants closer to becoming a Certified Franchise Executive.

It's about relationships

Franchising is based on relationships, and there is no better way to form them than attending this fun-filled conference. Franchise companies and franchisees also take home new ideas to improve their business practices. No one leaves the meeting without returning home with creative ideas and contacts to make their business prosper. One good idea makes it all worth while. There is something going on for everyone, attendees consistently state in their evaluations that they wish they could have attended more sessions.

Coming to the conference is an important step, but becoming actively involved in IFA is equally important. By becoming involved in the various committees, one is able to have more of a say in setting the direction and priorities of the organization while fostering strong relationships. Consider becoming a part of this fast-growing organization, and make sure to save time to meet the staff at IFA. The success of this conference is a direct result of their hard work and efforts.

Having attended this conference for more than 15 years, I still go home with new ideas. Good ideas travel fast, so jump on the bandwagon, join friends, colleagues and competitors in Las Vegas this February.

Lori Shaffron is vice president of franchise development of Sarah Adult Day Services. She can be reached at 1-800-472-5544 or [e-mail].