Is Brain Balance able to estimate the cost of maintaining, updating, or upgrading my computer system?
Brain_Balance Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
To ensure full operational efficiency and optimum communication capability among computer systems installed by you, us, and other franchisees, you must, at your own expense, keep the computer system in good maintenance and repair, and promptly install such upgrades, additions, changes, modifications, substitutions, and/or replacements to the computer hardware, software, networking/connectivity devices and configurations, telephone and power lines, and other computer-related facilities as we may direct. There is no contractual limitation on the frequency and cost of these obligations (Franchise Agreement Section 18). We cannot estimate the cost of maintaining, updating, or upgrading your computer system or its components because it will depend on your repair history, local costs of computer maintenance services in your area, and technological advances, which we cannot predict at this time.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEM, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 36–47)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Brain Balance's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Brain Balance cannot estimate the costs associated with maintaining, updating, or upgrading a franchisee's computer system. The document states that these costs will vary depending on factors such as repair history, local maintenance service costs, and technological advancements, which are unpredictable.
As a Brain Balance franchisee, you are responsible for keeping your computer system in good repair and promptly installing any upgrades, additions, changes, modifications, substitutions, and/or replacements to the computer hardware, software, networking/connectivity devices and configurations, telephone and power lines, and other computer-related facilities as Brain Balance may direct. The Franchise Agreement does not limit the frequency and cost of these obligations.
While Brain Balance does not provide estimates for ongoing maintenance, they do estimate the initial cost of purchasing the computer system. This is projected to range from $24,000 to $27,000 for a Standard Center and $15,000 to $20,000 for a Satellite Center. This initial investment covers the necessary hardware and software to meet Brain Balance's specifications as outlined in the Operations Manual.
Prospective franchisees should budget for ongoing technology expenses and factor in potential fluctuations in costs due to unforeseen repairs or required upgrades. It would be prudent to discuss typical maintenance costs with existing franchisees during the due diligence process to gain a better understanding of potential financial obligations.