Unit Encoding (GIS)

What is Unit Encoding?

Unit encoding is the process of assigning franchise units a unique identifier within a GIS system so they can be:

• mapped

• categorized

• analyzed

• assigned to territories

• tracked over time

This identifier is usually tied to:

• location coordinates

• franchisee ID

• territory ID

• operating status (open, closed, transferred)

• performance data

Unit encoding ensures every franchise location is consistently recognized across maps, reports and internal systems.

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Why Unit Encoding Matters

Without proper encoding, franchise systems struggle with:

• inconsistent territory assignment

• misclassification of units

• inventory errors

• inaccurate demographic reporting

• operational confusion

• inability to track openings/closures over time

Unit encoding ties geographic, operational and historical data together in one system.

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How Franchisors Use Unit Encoding

1. Mapping System Locations

Each unit is pinned precisely on the map.

2. Assigning Units to Territories

The GIS system automatically recognizes which territory a location belongs to.

3. Tracking System Growth

Encoded units feed Item 20 tables and internal dashboards.

4. Performance Analytics

Encoding ties geographic variables to sales data.

5. Market Planning

Encoded units help identify saturation and whitespace.

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GIS/Technical Relevance

Encoding typically includes:

• coordinate storage (latitude/longitude)

• unique unit keys

• geospatial data linkage

• historical change logs

Encoding also supports large systems by standardizing spatial data.

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FAQ

Is unit encoding used in Item 20?

Indirectly — encoding supports accurate outlet counts and history.

Can multiple units share the same coordinates?

Only when colocated (rare). Otherwise, each unit should be uniquely mapped.

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Related Terms

Franchise Disclosure Document
FDD Renewal
Material Change
Franchise Examiner
Franchise Exemption
Notice Filing State
Non Registration State
Registration Filing State

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Related Features

Franchise Registration Management 
Franchise Territory Mapping
Demographic Analysis
Integrated Document Signing
CRM Tools
Reporting

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Related Blogs

2025 Guide to Franchise Registration States in the U.S.
State Franchise Registration: What Franchisors Need to Know Before Expanding
Zors Improves Franchise Registration Tracking With Color-Coded Map Status
Why a Federally Registered Trademark Matters When Offering Franchise Opportunities
E-Signature Integration with a Territory-Centric CRM Is a Game-Changer