Everyone has heard about McDonald's Hamburger University, but many franchisors offer similar training and lifelong learning programs where franchisees come together to learn about quality, service, and value. Go to Entrepreneur magazine's website at http://www.entrepreneur. com to learn more about the training programs of top franchisors.

a. Select "Franchises & Opportunities," and then follow the link to "Franchise 500R". Learn about the training programs of five different franchises by selecting the "Training & Support" tab on the franchises you select. Write a short summary of the differences and similarities among the programs.

b. This chapter points out that higher costs generally characterize the more successful franchises. These costs include the initial franchise fee, investment costs, royalty payments, and advertising costs. Compare and contrast the costs and fees of the same five franchises you used in part a, and briefly summarize why you think the costs and fees vary.