Think you have what it takes to launch the next Starbucks, Supercuts or other chain business? You're not alone. During the first quarter of this year, 87 new franchise brands started operating in at least one U.S. state, nearly twice as many as during the same period in 2006, according to a new report by FRANdata, an independent research firm in Arlington, Va.

WHAT TO DO: When preparing a business plan, you'll need to consider how your franchisees will use this information. They will have to replicate your model and adhere to your standards for quality control. Financing may be tricky. This article offers advice on applying for a loan. Already own a business? See how one entrepreneur turned his barbershop into a franchise. If you'd rather buy an existing franchise, find out what questions you should ask current owners. Familiarize yourself with misconceptions about franchises that prospective buyers commonly fall prey to, such as assuming that a franchise in a fast-growing system will be profitable, or that a franchise is less apt to fail. --Sarah E. Needleman, 04/27/07