By Stacey Phillips
Toronto, Ontario — September 27, 2018 — At the tenth annual CIECA Symposium this year, various members of the collision repair community gathered to network and gain more insight about the technical, and business aspect of the industry.
The event which took place in September gathered a variety of attendees including: repairers, insurers, vehicle manufacturers, parts and material suppliers, information and software providers, general service providers and related segments and industries.
“The goal is to make the industry more efficient and deliver benefits to all participants through reduced development and support costs, lower cost of implementation, reduce barriers to entry and faster development times,” said Fred Iantorno, the executive director of CIECA. “All standards are developed by CIECA volunteers for the good of the industry.”
A cross-section of experts shared information about topical issues from both a business and technical perspective. “It is a wonderful opportunity for business and technology to come together and hear dynamic industry presentations, case studies and different points of view,” said Iantorno.
Some of the sessions included blockchain from Michael Hertzig of IBM; a presentation about onboarding for BMS (Business Message Suite) from Dan Seats at Motive Retail; how telematics is driving no-touch claims shared by Dawn Mortimer of Verisk, and insight into connected cars from Sean Carey, president of SCG Management Consultants. Clint Marlow from Allstate Insurance and CIECA’s chairman of the board also spoke on some of the top technology and consumer trends impacting the industry.
During the three-day event, the National Auto Body Council (NABC), Allstate and Caliber Collision-St. Petersburg presented a vehicle to Tampa resident Deundre Williams as part of the NABC Recycled Rides program.
“It is an honor to work with our collision repair industry partners to help make a difference in the life of someone who valiantly served our country,” said Bill Garoutte, president and CEO of the NABC.
Symposium attendees also had the opportunity to network during the social events throughout the evenings.
Established in 1994, CIECA is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2019. The association consists of six Board Committees and 17 Standards Development Committees (SDCs) such as Architecture, Photo Estimating, FNOL (First Notice of Loss), Repair Order, Repair Status, Scheduling, Salvage and Rental.
The next conference, CIECA Connex, will be held next Sept. 16 to 18 in Charlottesville, Virgina.
For more information about CIECA, visit www.cieca.com.
