What specific software programs are required for franchisees to operate a City Publications franchise?
City_Publications Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
ter System/Point-of-Sale System
As referenced in ITEM 7 above, we require you to purchase and utilize the current versions of the following computer software:
- Latest version of QuickBooks Pro
- Most current Windows or MAC operating system
- MS Office Excel, Word, Outlook
- Smart Phone (only to be used for City Publications Business, must have professional City Publications greetings)
- Adobe Acrobat Professional
In addition, you must purchase and utilize computer hardware which will permit you to operate the required software. The computer hardware you use must be IBM or MAC compatible, but we do not currently impose any other specifications for computer hardware or software. We suggest that you have a laptop computer and your will need a color laser printer.
We require you to purchase and begin using any version upgrades to the specified software within 6 months of the upgraded version's availability. We also require you to update your computer's CPU and your printer at least every 3 years. We estimate that you will spend approximately $1,500 to purchase the computer hardware and software, and should expect to spend approximately $1,000 per year
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 19–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 City Publications Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are required to purchase and utilize specific software programs to operate their franchise. These include the latest version of QuickBooks Pro, the most current Windows or MAC operating system, MS Office Excel, Word, and Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat Professional. Additionally, franchisees must have a Smart Phone exclusively for City Publications business, complete with professional City Publications greetings.
City Publications also mandates that franchisees purchase computer hardware that is IBM or MAC compatible to effectively run the required software. While there are no specific hardware specifications, a laptop computer and a color laser printer are suggested. Franchisees are obligated to implement any version upgrades to the specified software within six months of their release.
Furthermore, City Publications requires franchisees to update their computer's CPU and printer at least every three years. The estimated initial cost for the necessary computer hardware and software is approximately $1,500. Franchisees should also anticipate spending around $1,000 annually for updates, upgrades, and general upkeep to maintain their systems.