The WSI Story of Unlocking a World of Possibility

We've been at the forefront of digital transformation since 1995. As businesses navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, they seek more than service providers - they need strategic advisors who can guide them through digital evolution and AI adoption. WSI has built the world's largest network of digital and AI consultants to meet this need. We're here to help businesses unlock their full potential, and we're looking for exceptional leaders to join us in shaping the future. This is our story—and we believe it could become part of yours.

Who We Are

WSI was founded in 1995 and pioneered the digital marketing franchise model shortly after. We've evolved from website development into a selective, global consulting network that helps organizations build and execute strategy across digital and AI transformation. Today, we're the world's largest network of digital and AI strategy consultants, helping organizations of all sizes - from local professional firms to global enterprises - navigate transformation and drive growth.

Our mission is simple: Unlocking a world of possibility for those we serve. This means creating opportunities for high-caliber professionals to build prestigious consulting practices while guiding their clients through digital transformation and AI integration. It's a model built on strategic impact, driven by expertise, and supported by a selective global network of trusted advisors.

Where We've Been

Over three decades, WSI consultants have helped transform businesses across every industry through strategic digital and AI consulting. Our clients range from ambitious small and mid-sized businesses to large enterprise organizations. Regardless of scale, we've consistently delivered strategic frameworks and solutions that drive measurable growth and competitive advantage.

Our expertise and consulting excellence are reflected in nearly 200 WebAwards from the Web Marketing Association, including three "Top Agency" honors. Since 2007, WSI has consistently demonstrated innovation in digital strategy and execution. These achievements validate our position as the premier digital consulting network - credibility that enhances every consultant's ability to win and retain high-value clients.

Where We're Going

WSI leads the world's largest and most experienced network of digital consultants, now pioneering AI transformation strategies for businesses worldwide. We're at the forefront of helping organizations leverage AI-powered tools and frameworks while maintaining the human element that drives real business relationships. Our evolution from digital marketing authority to AI consulting leadership opens unprecedented opportunities for forward-thinking professionals.

At WSI, we believe in the power of collective velocity. Our global network of consultants shares ideas, proven methods, and new innovations to help everyone move forward faster.

That’s what makes WSI different. You’re not doing this on your own. Unlike most franchises or new startups, you’ll be part of a trusted consulting network where people support each other instead of competing, and where global experience and credibility help you win bigger opportunities.

As we grow our AI expertise and refine our strategies, our goal stays the same: to help every consultant build a successful, scalable business that transforms clients’ organizations and creates long-term success and wealth.

Some of Our Key Achievements

As the world's premier digital consulting network, we've reached milestones that demonstrate our leadership and stability:

Four published books on digital marketing, including The AI Search Revolution

+200

Three “Top Agency” honors and nearly 200 WebAwards from the Web Marketing Association

Recipient of the William Rosenberg Foundation Leadership Award by IFA for outstanding impact in franchising.

Our Leadership

Our executive team brings over 200 years of combined experience in franchising, consulting, and digital transformation. They've built WSI into the world's most respected digital consulting network while maintaining our core values and commitment to consultant success. These leaders don't just manage a franchise system - they guide a global network of elite consultants.

Dan Monaghan

Co-Founder

Dan Monaghan co-founded WSI in 1995 and has played a key role in building it into the world’s largest and most experienced digital agency network. His entrepreneurial journey began at the age of 19 and has been defined by a passion for innovation, leadership, and business growth. Over nearly three decades, Dan has helped shape WSI’s evolution in the franchising world. He serves as Chair of the IFA Foundation and sits on the International Franchise Association’s Board of Directors. He is also a recipient of the IFA’s prestigious William Rosenberg Foundation Leadership Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the global franchising industry.

Mark Dobson

Co-Founder

Mark Dobson has been with WSI since our inception in 1995. He has an extensive background in business development in several industries dating back to the early seventies. His knowledge of the development of human potential and his understanding of behavioral patterns has been instrumental in developing the WSI System over the course of the years.

Valerie Brown-Dufour

President

As President, Valerie is responsible for providing support and education to the WSI global franchise system. She is also charged with managing the innovation of the WSI business model as a whole. Overall, Valerie works to ensure WSI Consultants are provided with the tools, systems, and support they need to remain top amongst their competitors.

Valerie first joined WSI in 1999 and has served in a number of roles. Prior to this, she ran her own business and worked overseas in a number of countries. Valerie holds a master's degree from the University of Toronto.

Daniel Lattanzio

SVP Franchise Development

Daniel is a passionate team leader who has been with WSI since 1996. Having come from a long background in franchising, Daniel started with WSI in the early days to help build and grow WSI's franchise model, both locally and globally. After being involved in multiple areas of the digital marketing business, he found his home as Vice President of Franchise Development.

Over the last 12 years, Daniel has worked with his team to build the WSI Network of Consultants worldwide. He stands behind the successful, team-developed model of “Real People Do Real Things.”

Rimma Jaciw

VP Global Operational Performance

Since joining WSI in 2004, Rimma has been instrumental in the growth and development of the company through the various roles she has held, which include Customer Service and Support Manager, Director of Franchise Operations, Director of Compliance, and currently, Vice President of Global Operational Performance.

Prior to WSI, Rimma held executive positions in five countries, along with having started and operated three successful companies of her own. She oversees support, legal & compliance, billing & collections, and financial performance. She is an alumnus of the Certified Franchise Executives program and is the corporate liaison for the International and French Franchise Associations. She also sits on the Board of the Canadian Franchise Association.

Michael Monaghan

VP Field Operations

Michael Monaghan has had a long tenure within WSI holding several positions in the organization. From 1998 to 2012, he held the position of International Development Director, where he played a leadership role in the franchise development team. From 2012 to 2015, Michael held the title of Director of Master Franchise Operations, where he oversaw the WSI Master Franchise program.

In 2016 Michael was promoted to Vice President of Field Operations, where he now heads up the Franchise Business Coaching as well as leading the channel of WSI supplier partners.

Cheryl Baldwin

Marketing & Communications Director

Cheryl is the Director of Marketing & Communications at WSI and has been part of the WSI team since 2003. Over her 20 years with the company, Cheryl has helped WSI win more than 145 WebAwards, including the Top Agency award in 2019 & 2022 from the Web Marketing Association, and has spearheaded the publishing of WSI's three Digital Minds books.

When she's not busy implementing the latest marketing campaign for WSI, she can be found at a rink or ball diamond, cheering on her two sons.

Gennady Liakhter

Director of Business Innovations

Gennady joined WSI in 2015 and is currently the Director of Business Development and Innovation. During his tenure, he has provided strategic leadership on corporate initiatives related to business and product development. Some of these include the WSI Agency Accelerator Program, WSI Delivery Hub, and WSI Corporate Store.

Outside of WSI, Gennady spends his time traveling, cooking for friends and family, and is a lifelong Toronto sports fan.

Robert Mitchell

Chief AI Officer

Robert Mitchell is WSI’s Chief AI Officer, leading the development of AI adoption strategies across the franchise network. His role is centered on helping you and your clients harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in practical, high-impact ways. Robert spearheads WSI’s end-to-end AI consulting framework, guiding businesses through education, training, solution design, and implementation.

As a recognized AI strategist and thought leader, Robert is passionate about making AI approachable, actionable, and profitable. He works closely with WSI Consultants to simplify the complex, turning emerging technologies like generative AI, automation, and conversational intelligence into real business value. His leadership ensures that WSI remains at the forefront of AI innovation in the franchising and digital marketing industries.

Kundan Mohapatra

Director of AI and Strategy

Kundan Mohapatra is WSI’s Director of AI and Strategy, where he leads the development of scalable, strategy-first frameworks that empower franchisees to deliver high-value business consulting services. A growth architect at heart, Kundan blends data, creativity, and technology to guide organizations through AI adoption and digital transformation.

His work is focused on helping WSI Consultants unlock new revenue streams by offering strategic guidance to clients—from customer insights and omnichannel marketing to AI-powered business optimization. Kundan has been instrumental in building WSI’s AI-enabled business strategy framework, making it easier for franchisees to lead with insight, deliver measurable outcomes, and build long-term client relationships.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You've reached this point because you're considering more than just another business opportunity. You're exploring whether your executive experience, consulting background, or entrepreneurial success can be transformed into something greater - a scalable consulting practice backed by the world's most credible digital and AI network.

WSI is selective because excellence demands it. We seek leaders ready to guide businesses through transformation while building lasting wealth and legacy value.

Learn More About WSI

Frequently Asked Questions About WSI’s History and Vision

Choosing the right franchise partner is about more than investment—it’s about joining a brand with a strong track record, trusted reputation, and clear vision for the future. Here are answers to common questions about WSI’s history, recognition, mission, and why so many entrepreneurs trust us with their business journey.

When was WSI founded?

WSI was founded in 1995, at the dawn of the internet era, and has since evolved from an early provider of website solutions into one of the world’s largest digital marketing franchise networks. Over the past three decades, WSI has adapted to every major digital shift—from the rise of search engines and mobile marketing to social media, ecommerce, and AI-powered search.

This history of continuous adaptation demonstrates WSI’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and ensuring its franchise network remains relevant. For entrepreneurs, that means joining a brand with a proven ability to navigate change while consistently helping businesses grow online.

Where does WSI operate today?

WSI operates through an exclusive global network of consultants. This worldwide reach means businesses benefit from international insights while still receiving strategies that are tailored to their local markets and cultural context.

For franchise owners, this global-local structure is a key differentiator. It offers access to best practices and success stories from around the world, combined with the flexibility to apply them in your own region. Whether working with small businesses or multinational clients, WSI’s presence ensures you are part of a trusted, globally recognized digital brand with local relevance.

What makes WSI different from other franchise opportunities?

WSI isn’t a conventional franchise. It’s a franchise system reimagined for business leaders — for those who want to take the executive skills they’ve built over years of leading organizations and apply them to a business of their own, while helping other companies grow and transform.

You’re not running a storefront or selling a product. You’re building a consulting practice backed by a 30-year global brand, proven systems, and a trusted network of peers who collaborate, share insights, and help each other succeed.

Has WSI won any industry recognition or awards?

Yes. WSI is one of the most award-winning digital marketing networks in the world, with nearly 200 WebAwards from the Web Marketing Association, including three “Top Agency” honors. These awards recognize excellence in web design, digital strategy, and innovation across industries.

Industry recognition goes beyond trophies—it reflects the consistent quality and effectiveness of WSI’s work for clients worldwide. For franchisees, these awards provide a credibility boost when pitching services to prospects, signaling that they are backed by a globally respected brand that is recognized for delivering results.

What is WSI’s mission and vision?

WSI’s mission is to unlock a world of possibilities for those we serve. WSI aims to help businesses grow and succeed through digital marketing innovation and our trusted network of digital marketing and AI consultants. This dual purpose shapes every aspect of the franchise model, from the services offered to the training and support provided to franchisees.

By aligning with WSI, franchisees join a brand built on trust, results, and long-term client relationships. This mission-driven approach ensures the business opportunity is not just about generating revenue, but about making a real impact on clients’ growth and competitiveness in a digital-first economy.

What kind of support does WSI provide to consultants?

WSI provides comprehensive support beginning with our six-month Quick Start Program that accelerates your journey from learning to earning. Beyond onboarding, franchisees gain access to WSI’s proprietary tools, a vetted supplier network, and marketing resources, enabling them to deliver client projects with confidence.

Ongoing support includes mentorship, peer-to-peer collaboration, global conferences, and continuous updates to frameworks and strategies as the industry evolves. This means franchisees are never operating in isolation—they’re part of a collaborative ecosystem designed to help them grow their business faster and stay competitive in the ever-changing digital marketplace.

Who is the ideal WSI consultant candidate?

WSI seeks high-caliber professionals — former executives, CMOs, CTOs, successful entrepreneurs, and experienced consultants — who want to transform their expertise into scalable consulting practices.

Our most successful consultants share certain traits: they have strong business acumen, strategic thinking, and the leadership and communication skills to advise senior decision-makers with confidence. They’re also skilled at building relationships and turning insights into real business impact.

While sales and client relationship skills are essential, deep technical expertise isn’t required. WSI provides the frameworks, tools, and support you need to deliver enterprise-grade solutions with confidence.

How does WSI stay ahead of industry changes?

WSI has stayed ahead of every major shift in digital for nearly three decades by combining innovation with collective intelligence.
Our strength lies in the power of our global network — hundreds of experienced consultants and executives sharing insights, testing ideas, and applying new technologies in real business environments. Through this constant collaboration, we identify trends early and turn them into proven strategies our consultants can use with confidence.

We also invest in dedicated innovation initiatives, including our AI and Digital Innovation Lab, where new technologies, frameworks, and tools are tested and validated before they reach clients. This culture of “Sherlocking”—analyzing what works, improving it, and sharing it across the network—ensures continuous learning and improvement.

As an agile organization, we adapt quickly and scale what works globally. That’s how WSI doesn’t just keep up with industry change, we help define it.

Why do businesses trust WSI consultants and agencies?

Businesses trust WSI because we’ve built credibility over 30 years of delivering measurable results across industries. Our consultants bring strategic thinking, proven methodologies, and real case studies that demonstrate success in the field.

They combine deep subject matter expertise with niche authority in digital and AI consulting, giving clients the confidence that every recommendation is backed by real-world experience and global best practices.

Through WSI’s worldwide network, clients also gain access to collective expertise typically found only in large consulting firms — delivered with the agility, personalization, and long-term partnership of an independent advisor.

What is WSI's long-term vision?

WSI’s long-term vision is to help entrepreneur-minded individuals build future-ready consulting businesses that grow stronger as technology evolves.
The digital marketing industry has entered an era where data, AI, and human insight work together to drive measurable business results. Our goal is to ensure every WSI consultant and agency is equipped to lead that transformation in their local market.

Over the next decade, marketing will be shaped by intelligent automation, personalization, and AI integration across every channel. WSI is investing heavily in these areas — expanding our training, partnerships, and AI-powered tools to keep our network ahead of the curve.

For over 30 years, WSI has provided the leadership, innovation, and community support that keep our consultants relevant and confident in the future. Our vision is simple: to keep our people and their businesses at the forefront of what’s next.

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