By Allison Rogers
In this day and age, with the industry grappling with advanced automotive technology like ADAS, new tech can sometimes seem like more of a hindrance than a helper. It is a myth that needs to be debunked; while it can be daunting learning a brand-new software, especially when the shop appears to be operating smoothly, management software and training are here to help you. In fact, the province of Ontario is calling for more technological improvements in the automotive sector. In an effort to push widespread modernization in Canada’s repair industry, the provincial government is offering a new program, the Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP).
Through O-AMP, Ontario plans to hand out a series of grants totaling more than $10 million to small and medium-sized automotive suppliers across the province. The grants do not need to be repaid, but there is a catch–the money must go toward improving technological elements within a facility. Taking care of business in the repair sector can be a challenge but, believe it or not, there is technology out there designed to help you manage your collision repair facility and streamline your operations, making life easier for all.
For the most part, management software has two goals in mind: provide efficient solutions to collision repair facilities to speed up workflow without sacrificing quality while providing the optimal repair experience for the customer.
User-friendly management software streamlines shop operations by tracking inventory, ordering parts, tracking repair orders, providing faster and more accurate estimates while making overall life in the shop easier. Furthermore, certain software’s ability to access procedures with just one click is incredibly valuable and ensures quality repairs. It is important that, as the industry updates, your employees are aware of incoming changes and updates to proper procedures–and management software will never let you forget about them. Certain software goes above and beyond, getting specific to offer automatic reports on everything from KPIs to customer feedback.
Customer research and service is an important element to consider for any shop, and certain software allows you to track customer research and satisfaction levels, giving your facility access to customer service tips and tricks that could improve overall customer relations. In another nod to customer service improvements, there are even programs designed to streamline appointment scheduling, allowing your shop to manage multiple bays, run daily service reports and giving your customers the freedom and ease to book online.
Some companies offer on-site kiosks specifically designed for the collision repair industry, which allows customers to check-in for appointments, witness real-time repair updates, pay their bills and checkout, providing an easy and efficient repair experience.
Management can be chaotic, but you are not in it alone.
