What are 'E-Problems' as defined in the Boulder Designs FDD?
Boulder_Designs Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Computer systems are vulnerable in varying degrees to computer viruses, bugs, power disruptions, communication line disruptions, internet access failures, internet content failures and similar problems, and attacks by hackers and other unauthorized intruders ("E-Problems"). Franchisor does not guarantee that information or communication systems that Franchisor or others supply will not be vulnerable to E-Problems. It is Franchisee's responsibility to protect itself from E-Problems. Franchisee should also take reasonable steps to verify that its suppliers, third-party vendors, lenders, landlords, and governmental agencies on which it relies, have reasonable protection from E-Problems. This may include taking reasonable steps to secure Franchisee systems (including firewalls, password protection and anti-virus systems) and to provide backup systems.
Source: Item 22 — CONTRACTS (FDD page 50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Boulder Designs' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, "E-Problems" encompass various vulnerabilities that computer systems may face. These include computer viruses, bugs, power disruptions, communication line disruptions, internet access failures, internet content failures, and attacks by hackers or other unauthorized intruders.
Boulder Designs does not guarantee that their information or communication systems, or those supplied by others, are immune to these "E-Problems." As a franchisee, it is your responsibility to protect your business from these potential issues. This includes securing your systems with measures like firewalls, password protection, and anti-virus systems, as well as establishing backup systems.
Furthermore, Boulder Designs recommends that franchisees take steps to ensure that their suppliers, third-party vendors, lenders, landlords, and governmental agencies they rely on also have reasonable protection against "E-Problems." This highlights the importance of cybersecurity and data protection in all aspects of operating a Boulder Designs franchise.