Does Caption By Hyatt require franchisees to use standard configurations for equipment, and what constitutes a non-standard configuration that would require additional installation or configuration?
Caption_By_Hyatt Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
The following services are not included in the Hyatt IT Project Management Services Statement of Work:
- Installation and configuration of network, server, or workstation hardware and software
- Configuration of system interfaces to Opera
- Purchasing required hardware, software, interfaces and licenses.
- Performing upgrades to existing equipment intended for re-use in new hotel opening
- Installing non-standard software or systems hardware outside of hardware detailed above
- Installation and configuration of 'off-brand' hardware or hardware not purchased within Hyatt specification
- Configuration of equipment intended for use beyond Hyatt's standard configuration (i.e., configuration of redundant/hot-swap devices)
- Configuration of Virtual Machine-based systems, to include the Domain Controller
- Setup and configuration of systems typically configured by respective vendors
- Installing or terminating any low-voltage cabling or manufacture of patch cables
- Performing training for vendor-specific systems
Source: Item 22 — Contracts (FDD page 85)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Caption By Hyatt Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are expected to adhere to standard configurations for equipment. Hyatt's IT Project Management Services Statement of Work outlines specific scenarios considered outside the standard configuration. These non-standard configurations necessitate additional installation or configuration efforts, which are not included in the standard IT project management services.
Specifically, Caption By Hyatt considers the following as non-standard: installing software or systems hardware that are not detailed above, installing and configuring 'off-brand' hardware or hardware not purchased within Hyatt specifications, configuring equipment for use beyond the standard configuration (such as redundant or hot-swap devices), configuring Virtual Machine-based systems (including the Domain Controller), and setting up systems typically configured by respective vendors. These stipulations ensure uniformity and compatibility across all Caption By Hyatt locations, maintaining brand consistency and operational efficiency.
For a prospective Caption By Hyatt franchisee, this means that any deviation from the standard equipment and software configurations will likely incur additional costs and require separate arrangements for installation and configuration. It is crucial for franchisees to adhere to Hyatt's specified hardware and software standards to avoid these extra expenses and ensure seamless integration with Hyatt's systems. Franchisees should consult closely with Hyatt's IT team during the planning and installation phases to confirm that all equipment and configurations meet the required standards. Engaging an IT outsourced provider to observe Hyatt's IT resources is strongly recommended to ensure ongoing support and compliance with Hyatt's standards.