What is the nature of the Cinch I.T. software needed to run the Franchised Business?
Cinch_I_T Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
One Printer, and a Label Maker. This hardware can be acquired from a vendor of your choice.
To run your business, you are required to have the following software:
Microsoft software: Office 365, Email, Word, PowerPoint, Teams Chat, Video Conferencing and Storage; as well as Digital Signature Software, our Ticket System with Documentation solution add on; and our Accounting Software; our cloud-based software with mobile app; and our recommended Network Diagram Tool. These software tools are either included with your monthly software fee or will be purchased directly from our approved vendor list. The approved vendor list is provided in the Operation Manual.
You are responsible for purchasing and arranging delivery of this equipment with the vendor.
You are also responsible for securing and paying for a service contract which may include software upgrades.
The computer system manages your sales activities and general business operations.
You must also purchase and use a smartphone, brand and vendor of your choosing, to communicate with clients, the Help Desk and us.
The cost of a computer system that includes all of the above listed items varies widely but we estimate you may purchase the required computer system components, accessories and smartphone for between $2,500 and $5,000.
We have no contractual obligation to maintain, repair, update or upgrade your computer system. You must maintain your computer system and keep it in good repair. There is no limit on our ability to require you to upgrade the system, add components and software to the system and replace components and software of the system.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 28–39)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Cinch I.T.'s 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to have specific software to operate their business. While the hardware and software components are generally available, the technology system includes proprietary components.
To run the business, Cinch I.T. requires franchisees to have Microsoft software, including Office 365, Email, Word, PowerPoint, Teams Chat, Video Conferencing, and Storage. Franchisees also need Digital Signature Software, a Ticket System with Documentation solution add on, Accounting Software, cloud-based software with mobile app, and a recommended Network Diagram Tool. Some of these software tools are included with the monthly software fee, while others must be purchased directly from Cinch I.T.'s approved vendor list, which is provided in the Operations Manual.
The computer system is used to manage sales activities and general business operations. Franchisees are responsible for purchasing the required software and arranging for its delivery, as well as securing and paying for a service contract that may include software upgrades. Cinch I.T. does not have any obligation to maintain, repair, update, or upgrade the franchisee's computer system, but they do have the right to remotely access all computer information and records to monitor productivity.
The cost of the computer system, including all listed items, is estimated to be between $2,500 and $5,000. However, Cinch I.T. cannot estimate the costs of maintaining, updating, or upgrading the computer system due to variations in repair history, local costs of computer maintenance services, and technological advances.