Training Curriculum
Introduction
New operator training is available eight times annually. Each course
covers the entire Resource Library, Operations Manual and offers plenty
of hands-on application practice. The sessions are made available to all
franchisees and their employees.
All new franchisees are required to complete the training at their
earliest convenience and they have first priority in scheduling classes.
All other franchisees and their employees are encouraged and invited to
attend on a first-come, first-served basis.
The first week of course attendance may be waived for conversion and
transfer franchisees who can demonstrate extensive industry experience.
Any such attendance waiver will be at the discretion of the franchisee's
franchise system consultant.
When filling our a form to register employees for training, check the
boxes for the desired coursework for each staff member and return the
registration form to the Training Department.
This training is currently offered at no charge at the International
Training Center in Bradenton, Fla.. Franchisees will be responsible for
their own travel and lodging expenses.
Summary of Course Activities
Week One
This week is primarily dedicated to the technical operations of the
business. Each of the training modules in Volume Two are covered in this
week and the topics consist of:
- An Overview of Signs & Graphics Substrates
- Substrate Preparation
- Materials Used in the Industry
- Tools and Equipment
- Basics of Cyrious Software
- Weeding & Taping
- Vinyl Application
- Fundamentals of Design
- Omega Software
- Operating & Maintaining Plotters
- Basic Gerber Edge Operations
- Scanning Images
- File Conversion & Graphic Asset Management
Week Two
This week is dedicated to managing the business and franchise
operations. The modules that apply to the content of week two can be
found in volumes three and four of the Resource Library and portions of
the Operations Manual. There may be sections of this week that are
inappropriate for certain level employees. Prior to committing to send
your staff, please contact the Training Department for specifics and
areas you wish the employee not to participate in. SNC will kindly
re-direct the employee to a different area of study while these
sensitive topics are covered. The second week’s topics are:
- Franchisee System Operations & Support Programs
- Creating a Business Plan
- Cyrious POS Software
- Sign Center Image
- Supplier Relations & Startup Inventory
- Inventory Control
- Job Descriptions
- Compensation Plans
- Safety in the Workplace
- Monitoring & Motivating Employees
- Production Flow Efficiency
- Financials
- Managing Accounts Receivables
Week Three
Week three is heavily focused on sales and marketing. This week takes
all the technical and business management lessons and applies it to the
marketplace. How to help you get and keep more customers is the key to
growing the business and that is primarily what is covered during this
period. Most of the materials can be found in volumes five and six of
the Resource Library, along with the Action Selling system. The topics
covered are:
- The MAP Program
- Marketing Communication Tools & Systems
- Developing a Marketing Plan
- Public Relations
- Cyrious POS Marketing
- Customer Service
- Telephone Skills
- Listening Skills
- Strategies to Increase Sales
- The Action Selling System
- Creating the Total Business Plan
Week One: Technical Operations
Meet the Staff at Signs Now Corporation
Introduction to the people that support the franchise system at
corporate headquarters.
Share the Vision with the President
The purpose of this session is to share the past, present and future
plans as part of the Signs Now Family.
Signs Now Training Systems
The objective of this session is to provide an overview of the logistics
of the training program. Topics will include expectations, syllabus
review, housekeeping, local attractions and other pertinent information
to make their stay pleasant.
Day 1
An Overview of Signs: 10:00 am
The goal of this session is to review the purpose and types of
commercial and non-commercial signs. In addition we will review Signs
Now product lines and market needs. This introduction should emphasize
the variety of signs which can be sold through a Signs Now site.
Resource Library Materials: Glossary of Industry Terminology, Product
Guide
Substrates: 10:45 am
The objective of this class is to cover the common substrates used in
the sign industry. Topics include: technical descriptions, features and
benefits, sign application and field observations.
Resource Library Materials: Substrate Training
Materials: 1:30 pm
The purpose of this session is to review the types of pressure sensitive
vinyl media and the materials required to create a sign. Topics include:
intermediate, premium and specialty vinyls, adhesives, release liners
and usage suggestions.
Resource Library Materials: Introduction to Pressure Sensitive Materials
Tools & Equipment: 3:15 pm
The focus of this topic is on the hardware needed for production.
Resource Library Materials: Basic Sign Center Equipment
Basics of Cyrious Software & Operating Concepts: 4:00 pm, review Nov. 27
at 8:30 am
The purpose will be to preview what the software looks like, become
familiar with printing a WIP list and the concept of a production
meeting.
Day 2
Review: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Substrate Preparation: 9:30 am
The objective of this lesson is to review the tools, chemicals and
techniques to prepare the substrate for application. The module will
focus on the most common substrates for vinyl application.
Production Meeting: 10:00 am
Go over the class WIP list and prepare for the day’s production.
Weeding and Taping: 10:30 am
The goal of this session is to review and practice the effective
techniques for pre-masking pressure sensitive vinyls. Topics include:
tools, alternate techniques for intermediate and premium vinyls,
weeding, reverse weeding, application tape, trimming and alignment.
Vinyl Application: 1:00 pm
The objective of this session is to review the effective techniques for
vinyl applications on a variety of substrates. Topics include: tools,
techniques, justification and spacing, dry and wet applications,
techniques required for specific substrates (windows, vehicles etc.)
squeegee techniques, trouble shooting, corrugations and rivets, heat
guns and torches, formability.
Resource Library Materials: Basic Vinyl Application, Complex Vinyl
Application
Production: the remainder of the day will be spent completing the WIP
list reviewed at the morning production meeting. After work is
completed, updates are posted in the POS system.
Day 3
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Production Meeting: 9:00 am
Go over the class WIP list and plan the day’s production.
Fundamentals of Design: 9:30 am
The purpose of this topic is to review the elements of an effective
design with a focus on designing for signs. Topics include: use of
space, composition, text, graphics, color, highlights (bold, borders,
bullets).
Resource Library Materials: The Fundamentals of Design
Using Omega Software for plotter output: 10:15 am
The objective of this session is to understand the basic features/tools
of Omega software and to provide an opportunity for hands-on experience
creating designs for plotter output. Topics include: tools (text,
graphics, selection, border, shapes, zoom, distortion, shadow)
justification, copy/paste, fit text to path and special design features.
Resource Library Materials: Omega Basic Design
Production: the remainder of the day will be spent completing the WIP
list reviewed at the morning production meeting. After work is
completed, updates are posted in the POS system.
Day 4
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Production Meeting: 9:00 am
Go over the class WIP list and plan the day’s production.
Operating & Maintenance of Plotters: 9:30 am
The objective of this lesson is to provide an overview of plotters.
Topics include: a introduction to friction and non-friction plotters,
plotter hardware, loading materials, sizing jobs, tiling and paneling,
settings and the keypad.
Using Omega Software for EDGE output: 10:00 am
The goal of this session is to understand the basic features/tools of
Edge software and to provide an opportunity for hands-on experience
creating designs for plotter output. Topics include: tools (text,
ellipse/circle, borders) repeat/merge, fountain-image fill, cut lines,
combining shapes, moving layers, colors.
Operating the EDGE: 1:30 pm
The objective of this session is to understand the basic features and
operation of the EDGE. Topics include: Foils, keypad operations, loading
materials, printing media, quick plot, and hardware maintenance and
cleaning.
Production: the remainder of the day will be spent completing the WIP
list reviewed at the morning production meeting. After work is
completed, updates are posted in the POS system.
Day 5
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Production Meeting: 9:00 am
Go over the class WIP list and plan the day’s production.
Production: complete the WIP list reviewed at the morning production
meeting. After work is finished, updates are posted in the POS system,
followed by class and then final review.
Scanning Images: 3:30 pm
The purpose of this session is to review the equipment and methods for
scanning images for output on the EDGE. Topics include: scanning
techniques, acquiring an image using Omega software, file size,
resolution, scaling, importing and exporting images.
Graphic File Formats & Management: 4:00 pm
Review graphics software and file types for importing and exporting
graphics into Omega software. Topics include: review of suggested
graphics packages (Adobe products), types of files for import into Omega
Software, file extensions, file management in Mac or PC based computers.
Resource Library Materials: File Conversions and Graphics Assets
Management
Week Two: Business Operations
Day 1
Fundamentals of a Signs Now Franchise System: 9:00 am
The purpose of this topic is to review the elements of a Signs Now
franchise system. Topics include: understanding the
franchisee/franchisor partnership, protection of the brand, obligations,
the operating system, support and networking, role of the franchise
system consultant.
Resource Library Materials: Fundamentals of a Signs Now Franchise System
Creating a Business Plan: 11:00 am
The objective of this session is to present the elements of a business
plan and to assist the franchise with development of their personal
business plan. Topics include: writing a mission statement/goal.
Resource Library Materials: Developing your Signs Now Business Plan
Introduction to Cyrious POS Software: 1:30 pm
The objective of this session is to review the features of Cyrious POS
software and its capabilities. Topics include: installation, system
navigation, tool bars, hot keys, store information, time clock, data
entry, adding products, importing/exporting and daily procedures. This
module will be reinforced with daily exercises.
Resource Library Materials: Introduction to Cyrious Software, Cyrious
POS Daily Exercises, Data Entry, WIP & Reports using Cyrious
Day 2
Review: 8:30 am — 10:00 am
Overview of Center Image: 10:00 am
The objective of this session is to provide the tools and information
required to effectively operate a Signs Now center. Topics include:
store image/appearance, Image 2000, hours of operation, opening and
closing, showroom graphics, organizing the production area.
Resource Library Materials: Basic Signs Now Center Operating Guidelines
Using the Internet: 11:00 am
The Navigating the internet is introduced and a tutorial of using the
Signs Now website to its full advantage.
Resource Library Materials: Using the Internet 101
Inventory Control: 1:00 pm
Review methods and procedures of managing inventory. Topics include:
taking inventory, establishing reorder points, purchasing methods,
purchase orders.
Resource Library Materials: Inventory Management
Supplier Relations & Startup Inventory: 2:00 pm
The objective of this session is to review the approved Signs Now
suppliers and to create an inventory list for new and existing Signs Now
franchisees. Topics include: ordering procedures, review of suppliers,
placing new store orders.
Day 3
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Job Descriptions in the Signs Now System: 9:00 am
The objective of this session is to provide an overview of the job
positions and duties required to effectively run a Sign Now center.
Topics include: review of job description, uniforms, placing ads,
interviewing techniques, daily duties.
Resource Library Materials: Job Descriptions and Role Definitions
Compensation Plans: 10:30 am
The objective of this session is to review suggested compensation
procedures and plans. Topics include: payroll procedures, suggested
salaries based on job description, salary vs. hourly compensation,
commissions, bonus structures and position ranking.
Resource Library Materials: Operations Manual
Monitoring and Motivating Employees: 1:00 pm
The objective of this session is to review methods to motivate employees
for optimal performance. Topics include: goal setting, performance
appraisal, coaching and counseling, delegating, training and
development, recognition.
Resource Library Materials: Personnel Management, Motivating Employees
for Outstanding Performance, Personal Achievement through Goal Setting
Day 4
Review: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Employees and Safety: 9:30 am
The objective of this session is to review the OSHA regulations and
guidelines for a safe working environment. Topics include: OSHA, MSDS
and the Right to Know, Showroom setup, Production area layout.
Materials: Handouts, video presentation
Production Flow Efficiency: 10:30 am
The objective of this session is to review the theory of throughput as
it relates to the sign industry. Topics include: the theory of
throughput, work flow at Signs Now, suggestions for reducing bottlenecks
at the graphics, production and customer service station, daily
meetings, the schedule board, the flow of paperwork.
Resource Library Materials: Production Flow Efficiency, Shop
Optimization, Understanding the Impact of Sign Codes
Managing Accounts Receivable: 3:00 pm
The objective of this session is to review methods for using Cyrious POS
to monitor accounts receivable. Topics include: creating 30, 60, 90 day
lists, current customer information, running balances and collecting
payments.
Resource Library Materials: Managing Accounts Receivable
Day 5
Review: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Financial Primer: 9:30 am (will continue after lunch)
The objective of this session is to provide an overview of financial
analysis of a Signs Now operation. Topics include: understanding
financial statements, the accounting cycle, profits and cash flow,
financial reporting strategies, inventory valuation, inventory accrual,
trouble shooting with financial statements, operating budgets.
Role Play and Final Review at end of day.
Week Three: Sales & Marketing
Day 1 & 2
Action Selling:
9:00 am - 5:30 pm Apr. 8
9:00 am - 12:00 pm Apr. 9
This session provides you with a systematic approach to managing the
sales process and allows you to better differentiate yourself, your
company and your products or services. Typically, customers will go
through a series of decisions when making any kind of a purchase and
these decisions happen in a pre-determined sequence. As a professional
salesperson, it is your job to walk your customers through these buying
decisions in sequential order, resulting in better commitments and a
long-term business relationship.
Materials: Action Selling
Consultative Selling Techniques: 1:00 pm, Apr. 9
Help Us Help You is a selling process integrating components of Image
2000, Action Selling, and the Sign and Graphics Solution System.
Resource Library Materials: Help Us Help You, Consultative Selling
Techniques, How to Use the Sign and Graphics Solution System
Role Play: through end of day, Apr. 9
The objective of this session is to review Action Selling, Consultative
Selling, Help Us Help You, and the use of the Sign and Graphics Solution
System via role play in a store setting. You will also be able to review
elements of Week One and Two in hands-on situational practice.
Day 3
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Overview of MAP: 9:00 am
The objective of this session is to provide an overview of the MAP
program. Topics include: how MAP works, MAP governing system, current
and future MAP programs, using the monthly Marketing Calendar, using the
Target Marketing Manual.
Resource Library Materials: The MAP Program
MAP Benefits: 9:15 am
The objective of this session is to review the direct mail program.
Topics include: the logistics of the direct mail program, review of
current and prior marketing pieces, introduction to the vendor for
stationary items, branded items for communications (letterhead, cards),
yellow page advertising (vendor and approved ads).
Marketing Communication Tools: 9:30 am
The objective of this session is to review the Signs Now marketing
communication tools and customizing MAP program to meet franchisee
needs. Topics include: review of past and present Signs Now MAP direct
mail pieces, overview of the MAP direct mail programs (including
features and benefits), marketing collateral, ordering Signs Now
stationery and business communication pieces, action selling rebates,
working with the yellow page ads and agency.
Developing a Marketing Plan: 10:00 am
The objective of this session is to review the information and resources
required to the develop the marketing plan (as part of the business
plan.) Topics include: review of market segments, describing the target
markets, descriptions of competitors, description of product or
services, marketing mix (promotional strategy), description of location,
pricing strategy.
Resource Library Materials: Building a Marketing Plan
Strategies to Increase Sales: 1:00 pm
A spin-off from Marketing Magic, this module focuses on specific actions
you can use at your Signs Now center to increase sales. Topics include:
correlating marketing with increased sales, suggestions for increasing
the average invoice price, building repeat sales, recruiting new clients
and a review of the Signs Now Target Marketing Manual.
Resource Library Materials: Strategies to Increase Sales, How to Use the
Target Marketing Manual
Using Cyrious POS for Marketing: 2:00 pm
The objective of this session is to understand the capabilities of the
POS as a marketing tool. Topics include: using the contact manager,
creating lists and queries, email, faxing, creating labels and mailings,
merging lists, assigning marketing flags and assigning tasks.
Resource Library Materials: Using the Cyrious Contact Manager &
Marketing
Role Play: through end of day
The objective of this session is to review your cumulative knowledge to
date via role play in a store setting.
Day 4
Review: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Telephone Skills: 9:30 am
Using the telephone effectively requires more of your listening skills
than your verbal skills. This module provides a quick tips and
techniques to improve your telephone skills.
Resource Library Materials: Telephone Skill Dev.
Developing Listening Skills: 10:45 am
Whether at home or at work, listening is the foundation skill required
to carry out other responsibilities effectively. The module reviews the
importance of listening skills at work, barriers to listening,
techniques to stay focused, how to capture the message and help the
speaker. Simple self awareness exercises help the user identify
strengths and weaknesses in their listening skills.
Resource Library Materials: Dev. Listening Skills
Trade Shows: 1:00 pm
Review of basic survival skills in the trade show arena. Topics include:
planning, packing, booths, terminology.
Resource Library Materials: Trade Show: Planning, Preparing Your Booth,
The Show, Glossary
Superior Customer Service: 4:00 pm
Guidelines for effective customer service. Since customers can be both
internal (employees) and external, all Signs Now staff personnel need to
be aware of good customer service practices. Customer service skills
include: understanding the customers needs and expectations, creating a
positive total service experience, communicating effectively to internal
and external customers, understanding communication techniques and
dealing with difficult customers.
Resource Library Materials: Superior Customer Service.
Day 5
Review: 8:30 am - 9:00 am
Public Relations and You: 9:00 am
The objective of this session is to provide an overview of effective
public relations techniques and to provide strategies to be incorporated
into the marketing plan. Topics include: suggestions for public relation
events, the purpose of public relations, press releases, etc.
Resource Library Materials: Making Public Relations Work for You
JumpStart Marketing: 10:00 am
Learn all about the JumpStart Marketing program and what each day
encompasses in this total concept approach to accomplishing daily
marketing objectives. See how the program integrates with the POS system
as well.
Materials: JumpStart User Guide, JumpStart Training CD
Graduation Luncheon for new and conversion franchise students from 12:00
- 1:00 pm
Creating a Business Plan: 1:00 pm
Review the elements of a business plan and assist the franchisee with
completion of their personal business plan.
Final Review and Final Exam
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