Optimising resource utilisation in TNE franchise networks: a data envelopment analysis-based approach

Purpose Franchising programmes in higher education institutions (HEIs) face critical challenges in optimising resource use, enhancing productivity and ensuring effectiveness across transnational networks. This study evaluates the performance of 18 franchise programmes within a single transnational higher education (TNE) network in three dimensions: admission efficiency, teaching efficiency and teaching effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach Using a three-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) model, this study examines resource utilisation, efficiency-effectiveness trade-offs and managerial performance gaps in business-related undergraduate programmes within a British university’s TNE network. The model enables internal benchmarking and real-world improvement mapping tailored to specific input–output dynamics. Findings The results reveal marked performance heterogeneity, with only a single programme achieving maximum scores across all three dimensions. Admission efficiency emerged as a critical constraint, indicating room for scaling student recruitment without additional resources. Notable trade-offs across performance dimensions were identified, pushing for differentiated improvement strategies. High-performing programmes also serve as performance benchmarks, offering operational and managerial insight for cross-learning across the network. Originality/value This study contributes to the performance management literature by creatively applying DEA within the specialised context of franchised TNE networks, a previously underexplored area in productivity research. It introduces a multidimensional staged DEA framework that captures efficiency–effectiveness trade-offs and supports performance benchmarking. Our findings contribute both theoretical advances in performance science and practical tools for academic network governance, offering actionable guidance for enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in TNE delivery systems.