THE ROLE OF SMALL BUSINESS IN THE ECONOMY. Before looking at what role, and the importance of that role, a small business plays in the economy you first have to arrive at a definition of what properties make up a small business. Because this definition is neither globally standardized nor consistent over the decades within one country, direct comparisons between data are some what difficult to make. However the findings of many reports into small businesses can be compared, and any figures used will be listed with the definitions, at the time they were taken. The first major study into small businesses was undertaken in the late sixties, to determine whether the slump in number of small businesses would continue, and what its effect upon the economy would be.

Franchising and the internet. As with every aspect of modern business, there is much information about franchising on the internet. Anyone can go on-line to find lists of franchise systems advertising for future franchisees. There are many independent bodies offering free advice but it is important to make sure that the information on offer is not only appealing but factually accurate. Anyone can start a website praising a franchise system that may not be up to scratch, so for more reliable advice check for BFA, or equivalent standards, and consider carefully whether it is wise to take advice from a site such as “www.franinfo.com” which is “A world of information about franchising”, and who’s author signs off with the phrase; “Live long, and prosper.”...... Prospective franchisees may well be better off sticking with official franchising magazines for a clearer, more complete picture.