Visit the Dots website, http://www.dots.com, click on the link titled "Site Map" located at the bottom of the page. Click the link entitled "Contact Us" and write down the corporate contact information.

Enter your contact information on the form page. Be sure to include information detailing your request to receive franchise information. You may also call the corporate office number which is (800) 208-8173. Speak with someone who can assist with getting you a franchise packet mailed out.

Read over the franchise packet once received and determine whether the requirements are feasible within your budget and business model.

Make a business plan using the franchise demographics and capital requirements. Most franchises require the business owner to have a minimum amount of money set aside to purchase or lease store fixtures, signage, clothing at a wholesale rate as well as pay upfront franchise legal fees.

Consult with a financial planner and go over your business plan and franchise packet. The financial planner should be able to let you know whether this franchise is a good fit for you and your budget. Ask the planner to prepare a financial prospectus and help you with your business plan.

Meet with your local bank loan officer, provide your Dots application letter and request a letter of credit. This will show the franchise representative that your credit worthiness is good and any new business loans are likely to be approved.

Meet with the Dots franchise representative to discuss the business and how you will need to comply with the franchise requirements. The representative may want to see your prepared business plan and financing prospectus. Turn over your completed franchise paperwork, financial prospectus, letter of credit with approved credit score from your bank loan officer and the completed business plan. The representative will work with you to get your store application processed and help with other requirements as a franchise owner.

Receive your Dots franchise approval letter.

Visit your bank and open all required business checking accounts in your new Dots store's name as well as other needed business accounts that come with running a business. You will also need to apply for a federal tax identification number. Start searching for the required location size to open your new Dots franchise business. Upon leasing your location, work with the Dots rep to set up your store vendor accounts to purchase products and clothing. Be sure to open utility accounts in your business name so that your new store will have electricity, running water and other necessities.

Order your approved Dots store advertisements and begin interviewing and hiring potential Dots store employees.

Schedule your Dots store grand opening. It is a good idea to time your grand opening for the winter holiday rush, back-to-school season or other times when shoppers are out in full force. Now that your Dots store is open for business, be sure to have fun and enjoy your new business.