SLANTS & TRENDS–NEW PRODUCTS AND INFORMATION

DASH/MATE HIGHLIGHTS DEALERSHIP VITAL STATS
February 3, 2007—Dash/Mate from Auto/Mate Dealership Systems, Clifton Park, N.Y, uses graphical elements—or “widgets”—to display dealership vital statistics that can be viewed at a glance. A general manager can set up a bar chart, meter or thermometer (continuously displayed in Auto/Mate’s AMPS, or Automotive Management Productivity Suite) to keep abreast of the number of daily vehicle sales to see if the store is on track for the month. A sales manager might set up a speedometer to show their rate of new-vehicle sales. A service manager could create a digital “clock” to show where the department is in meeting its gross estimates.


ELECTRONIC SERVICE MENU AIMS TO ELECTRIFY SALES
February 3, 2007—MenuVantage, Orlando, introduced Web-based ServiceMenu, which provides an electronic lookup in the service drive so service writers can accurately rate service contracts and other valuable F&I and service-related products. For instance, service advisers can offer packages with items such as a 15,000-mile service coupled with a service contract. “For years, dealers have known that in order to retain service customers for life we need to capture our first service appointment and get that first oil change” before the quick-lube chains do, says MenuVantage co-CEO Phillip Battista.

PAYMENT RANGER ARRANGES PAYMENT
February 3, 2007—With the Payment Ranger, made by Payment Ranger LLC, Mechanicsville, Va., the dealership enters the customer cash down payment, trade-in info, and credit tier into a specially programmed hand-held PDA. The customer may then use it to browse the lot, scanning the bar code of any new or used vehicle. An estimated payment range for the unit will be immediately displayed on the screen. Payment Ranger takes into account most all rebate and incentive programs to try to get the best deal possible.

MPI UNVEILS SERVICE INSPECTION PROGRAM
February 3, 2007—Mobile Productivity, Inc. (MPi), has the World Class Inspection Program, which offers live process measurement for vehicle service departments. Implementation/training: The required training, based on the John Wooden teaching methodology of Explanation, Demonstration, Imitation, and Repetition, includes process-development workshops, Web-based classes, and on-the-job instruction. Hardware: Support equipment includes rugged technician laptops and high-speed wireless networks. Measurement: Key measurements to help managers include tech recommendations per inspection and penetration and dollars per inspection. Tools: MPi’s Advanced Repair Guidance Information System (ARGIS) provides such tools as electronic inspection forms and full-color customer Know Your Vehicle reports. Support: Field support includes regular scheduled visits from an inspection process expert.


DEALER.COM LAUNCHES AUTO RETAIL MARKETING PLATFORM
February 3, 2007—Burlington, Vt.–based Dealer.com’s Sales360º tracks consumer responses from “exposure to closure,” pinpointing where and when to invest in lead-generating programs and when to cancel. Search engine marketing and optimization programs, plus a powerful e-mail marketing component, steer customers; Dealer.com’s SmartSites Web sites capture leads; the single-log-in ControlCenter manages leads, sales processes, advertising, specials, marketing media, inventory, Web content, and reporting; and, now, simple-to-use analytics that include sales rep and Web site performance metrics grade marketing and advertising programs.

NEW TOUGHBOOKS: YOU CAN BE TOUGH AND BRIGHT
February 3, 2007—Panasonic Computer Solutions Co., Secaucus, N.J., is showcasing two new Toughbook computers: the CF-19 convertible tablet PC, and the flagship CF-30 clamshell notebook. They come equipped with Intel Core Duo processors, added security features, and optional embedded access to next-generation wireless data networks from all major cellular wireless carriers. These MIL-SPEC-certified notebooks also incorporate daylight-readable screens and such rugged features as magnesium alloy cases, sealed keyboards and ports, flexible internal connectors, and shock-mounting. The CF-19 features a bright 550 Nit (candelas per square meter) screen with a new low-reflection coating and the CF-30 boasts an industry-leading 1,000 Nit LCD.

JMSOLUTIONS SOFTWARE UPGRADE TARGETS MARKETING
February 3, 2007—JMsolutions, Deerfield Beach, Fla., has announced Release 4.0 of its used-car inventory manager, AAX. The upgrade offers simplified navigation, better content organization, and profit-boosting inventory features. Dashboard reporting: Graphically highlights critical measurements and lets the user get a quick overview. Internet marketing: Integrates with top online classified sites; accesses advanced eBay capabilities; captures bidder lead info; manages all activities through robust reporting. XchangeLane: Provides used-car managers with enhanced tools to help them buy and sell inventory.