Insights & analysis

Development roles: sales or human resources?

Practical insights to structure, develop and manage a sustainable franchise network.

Article illustration: Development roles: sales or human resources?

Development can involve commercial relationships or recruitment tools. Distinguish network development from software development.

Key takeaway: The word “developer” refers to different roles. Commercial network development involves relationships and recruitment; software development creates the technical tools that may support them.

Commercial development

A development role may involve network relationships, presenting products and services, understanding customer needs and adapting solutions to them.

Human-resources tools

In technology businesses, software developers may create applicant tracking systems, performance-management software or online learning portals. This is a technical role supporting HR processes, not the same profession as recruiting franchise partners.

Clarify the responsibilities

Software development mainly focuses on building software and technology, although developers can contribute to commercial or HR projects depending on the company’s needs and their interests. In a franchise organisation, define responsibilities clearly to avoid confusing these roles.

Checklist

  • A clearly defined role
  • Commercial or technical skills suited to the task
  • Useful recruitment and training tools
  • Coordination with the network team

Frequently asked question

Is a software developer a franchise development manager?

No. The titles can sound similar, but software creation and franchise-partner recruitment are different activities.

Take action

Identify whether the need is commercial development, recruitment expertise or technical tools before defining the position.

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