Who is responsible for the acquisition, operation, maintenance, and upgrading of the Degree Wellness Computer System?
Degree_Wellness Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Nonetheless, you agree to incur such costs in connection with obtaining the computer hardware and software comprising the Computer System (or additions or modifications thereto). Within sixty (60) days after you receive notice from us, you agree to obtain the components of the Computer System that we designate and require from time to time. You further acknowledge and agree that we and our affiliates have the right to charge a reasonable systems fee for software or systems installation services; modifications and enhancements specifically made for us or our affiliates that are licensed to you; and other maintenance and support Computer System-related services that we or our affiliates furnish to you. You will have sole responsibility for: (1) the acquisition, operation, maintenance, and upgrading of your Computer System; (2) the manner in which your Computer System interfaces with our computer system and those of third parties; and (3) any and all consequences that may arise if your Computer System is not properly operated, maintained, and upgraded.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 66–257)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Degree Wellness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the franchisee is solely responsible for the acquisition, operation, maintenance, and upgrading of their Computer System. This includes ensuring the Computer System interfaces properly with Degree Wellness's systems and those of third parties. The franchisee also bears all consequences if the Computer System is not properly operated, maintained, and upgraded. This requirement is a top priority for Degree Wellness, and failure to fully implement the designated Computer System within specified timeframes can result in additional fees.
Specifically, if a Degree Wellness franchisee has not fully implemented the required software and computer system, called "going live", within two months after the conclusion of their initial training program, they will be required to pay a fee of $500 per month. This fee is due on the first day of each calendar month and is not pro-rated for partial months. If the franchisee has not gone live within six months after training, the fee increases to $1,000 per month, starting in the sixth month after training.
Degree Wellness also requires franchisees to maintain a dedicated high-speed internet service for remote access and information retrieval. However, Degree Wellness is not liable for any defects or deficiencies in the Computer System, its components, service providers, or required third-party software.
This arrangement places the onus on the franchisee to manage and maintain their technology infrastructure, which is a common practice in franchising. Franchisees should carefully consider these responsibilities and associated costs when evaluating the Degree Wellness franchise opportunity.