and monitors and enforces quality standards across members of
the franchise system on a continual basis (Shane 2005). Violations
or missteps by either party could cause conflict if
one partner perceives the other as indulging in acts that
impede the achievement of its own goals (Etgar 1979). If
the aggrieved partner's claim for redress is denied or contested,
this constitutes a dispute (Galanter 1983). Left unresolved,
serious disputes may lead to costly litigation, dysfunction,
and even termination of the relationship