Remember Audatex paper worksheets? Remember Mitchell bar-code readers? Do you remember when there were only two computer estimating systems?
It wasn't all that long ago when we had little choice, limited computer technology and relatively primitive data entry methods. This has all changed. With three competing vendors, technology, data and convenience all have improved. Compared to years ago, each estimating system contains more data, more detail and more friendly user entry.
In some cases, improvements came from new computer technology. Improvements also came from healthy competition between vendors. In addition, improvements came from you. When you notify your estimating system vendor with either a complaint or a suggestion, they have additional information to weigh for future software releases. That is not to be confused with data updates, which are the monthly changes in prices, labor and new vehicles. Software releases change the program itself.
When you select a replacement bumper cover, your system's current data update provides the latest price and labor information. Your system's current software release provides the latest techniques to make that selection; from a list, from a picture, from alternative part choices, with drop-down lists, with pop-up windows, and more. New software releases are on-going projects for each estimating system provider and might be planned years in advance. It can take a long time to integrate new programming, test everything, and get it distributed.
When you receive a new software release, do you thoroughly investigate the changes and bring yourself up to speed on how to use these enhancements to improve your estimating?
Is everyone in your shop up-to-date on your estimating system and all its features? Maybe it's time to update your education on your system.
Each estimating system provides that education, but it may take some time and effort on your part to get it. First, read the documentation included in any new software release. Install the new software and check out the new features immediately. Decide how you will use anything that is new and share that information with others. Retain all documentation for future use.
Check on other features you may not be familiar with or releases you may have missed by searching through the software "Help" screens. You can also seek out additional training. For Mitchell customers, go to Mitchell University Online Training at www.mitchellu.com. Mitchell also has a searchable knowledge database at www.mitchell.com/support for individual areas of interest. For Audatex customers, there is an online training center at www.training.audatex.us/otc4-index.asp. CCC has user training that ranges from simple tutorials in Pathways software to on-site consultative sessions. See www.cccis.com.
Each vendor also presents user training at many local, state and national events, including NACE. Some hold local or regional training sessions for advanced users or for new product information. Watch for these and plan to attend. It is an investment in your business.
The important point is to keep up-to-date with your system's features and operations. Use all of it to make your estimating as accurate and efficient as possible. Like any other tool, your estimating system is only as good as your ability to use it.
