Purchasing and operating a computer franchise offers several advantages over establishing a new business. A good franchise already has an established name, a working business plan and a reliable reputation. The franchisor will usually provide you with ongoing support and a list of potential customers so you have a solid foundation to start with.

With a computer franchise, you will be able to offer assistance to companies that need IT help, software solutions or have any other computer related needs. Computer franchise opportunities are ideal for people who know and understand computer technology.

Starting any new franchise will require a lot of time and hard work. You will need to meet with the franchisor to discuss the business, take a training course and make an investment.

There are many things that you must do before buying a computer franchise, such as:

1. Investigate the costs involved in running the franchise, such as purchasing fees, marketing expenses, royalties and inventory.

2. Understand all of the operational guidelines the franchisor has in place that you must conform to.

4. Obtain a location for your franchise. Many franchisors will help with this process.

5. Find out how many employees you will need to hire and train.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Work with a consultant who will help you decide if a PC franchise is right for you

A franchise consultant thoroughly investigates any franchise you are considering to determine if it will be worthwhile and profitable for you, helps you understand what types of franchises you are best suited to operate and helps you get started.

I recommend: The Bibby Group and Franchise Buyers Network provide consultants who will lead you through the process.

Locate a computer franchise for sale

There are many types of computer franchise opportunities you can look into such as a computer repair franchise or computer training franchise. Investigate an array of computer related franchises to find the one that is right for you.

I recommend: COMPUTER EXPLORERS provides software, computer training and certified teachers to help children learn how to use and operate computers. Fast-teks Inc. presents IT solutions to businesses and individuals. Nerd Force provides on site computer assistance for businesses. TeamLogic, Inc. offers consultations, maintenance and repair work for computers and network systems.

Consult a lawyer to guide you through the process of investing in computer franchising

A franchise lawyer will explain all the details of the contract you must sign with the franchisor and help you understand the legal obligations you will have once you have made the franchise purchase.

I recommend: Speak to the franchise law experts at the Law Offices of Nancy L. Lanard or the Franchise Law Team.

Confer with an accountant about the financial aspects of any computer franchise opportunity

A certified public accountant will investigate the financial history of a franchise you are interested in, explain the various expenses you will have when you are running the franchise and help to determine your long-term earning potential.

I recommend: Find an accountant at AccountantsWorld or the CPAdirectory.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find out if the computer franchise will be regulated by your state government and, if so, in what ways.
• •  Look into the growth rate the franchise you are considering has had over the past few years.