What standards must laptop computers and tablets meet for an Engineering For Kids franchise?
Engineering_For_Kids Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Computer System. You must obtain and use the computer hardware and/or operating software and/or communications capabilities we specify from time to time (the "Computer System"). We may modify specifications for and components of the Computer System. The Computer System is described in more details in Item 11, and the estimated costs are described in Items 6 and 7. You must also obtain for use in conducting the Programs laptop computers and tablets. You may obtain these items for suppliers of your choice provided that the items meet our standards and specifications.
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES\ (FDD pages 19–24)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Engineering For Kids Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees must obtain laptop computers and tablets for use in conducting the Programs. While franchisees can select their own suppliers for these items, the computers and tablets must meet the standards and specifications set by Engineering For Kids.
Engineering For Kids has the right to require that all services, products, supplies, materials, and equipment used in the operation of the franchised business meet specifications that they establish from time to time. These items may also be purchased only from suppliers that Engineering For Kids has expressly approved, or from a single source, which may include Engineering For Kids, its affiliates, or a buying cooperative that they organize. To the extent that Engineering For Kids establishes specifications, requires approval of suppliers, or designates specific suppliers for particular items, they will publish their requirements in the Manual.
If a franchisee would like to offer or use other services or products that Engineering For Kids has not approved or purchase from a supplier that they have not approved, the franchisee must submit a written request for approval. Engineering For Kids has the right to inspect the proposed supplier's facilities and/or test samples of the proposed products. The franchisee agrees to pay Engineering For Kids an amount not to exceed the reasonable cost of the inspection and their actual cost of testing the proposed product, including personnel and travel costs, whether or not they approve the supplier. Engineering For Kids has the right to grant, deny, or revoke approval of programs, curriculum materials, products, services, and suppliers based solely on their judgment.
Prospective franchisees should carefully review Item 8 of the Franchise Disclosure Document and the Engineering For Kids manual to understand the specific standards and specifications for computer hardware, software, and other equipment. It is also important to understand the process for requesting approval of alternative suppliers or products and the associated costs.