Marc Didemus and his wife Jane created Image Advantage. Together they have watched the business flourish. Before Image Advantage Marc was a Digital Office Equipment Consultant where he managed many types Document Imaging Divisions including sales, consulting and training of a variety of document imaging/management systems. Marc is very active in his local community helping out and coaching local sports teams. Marc is always willing to lend a hand. That's why he and his wife created Image Advantage to help businesses stay on the cutting edge of the digital revolution.
BeTheBoss: Tell us about the Image Advantage concept.
Marc Didemus: Image Advantage was created to fulfill a need for businesses to have their paper documents scanned and stored electronically.
How and when did you become involved with Image Advantage?
Image Advantage was created in 1998 as a partnership between Marc Didemus and Jane Didemus who are husband and wife and has operated continually since that time.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Image Advantage?
MD:Marc Didemus has a diploma in Electronic Engineering Technology from St. Lawrence College in Kingston. I then worked for 3 years for Tandy Computers and Epson Computers selling computers and related equipment. In 1990 I joined Upper Canada Office Systems, which is the largest office equipment dealer in Kingston, as a photocopier salesman. In 1993 I founded the “Electronic Records Management Division” of Upper Canada and held the position of Manager of the Department until 1998 when Image Advantage was founded.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Image Advantage franchisee?
The advantages are a proven track record with a large base of existing, satisfied customers. Our solutions are needed by any business or government organization from small to large. The systems have immediate cost benefits to our clients.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
MD:Somebody with a strong sales background who is comfortable with computers and who wants to start a business where he/she can control their own destiny.
BTB: Tell us a little about the Digital Printing Market?
MD:Practically any business or government organization can benefit by Image Advantage services and systems. Most of our customers say that they have never heard of anybody offering these services to them.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
MD:Attention to detail and to support the Franchisee’s.
BTB: Do you have a mentor and is there someone you use for inspiration?
MD:My business mentor is the owner of Upper Canada Office Systems Don Sinkinson.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
MD:Go into the whole experience with a positive attitude. Know that it will take patience and hard work to gain success.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Image Advantage would be a great opportunity for someone?
MD:The model has proven successful and effective. The market is very receptive to these services and products.
