LAS VEGAS — Epicor Software Corp. has introduced an automotive service workflow program that streamlines vehicle inspection, estimating and repair processes for increased productivity.
Epicor Smart Inspection 2.0 is designed to help shops diagnose, document and estimate repairs quickly. The solution also helps improve communication with vehicle owners through comprehensive estimates that feature detailed photos and other important information, the company said.
The software, aimed at helping vehicle service businesses increase bay productivity, is available for any automotive service business with a high-speed internet connection.
"All service businesses, regardless of category, are looking for ways to provide a faster, more convenient customer experience," said Stephen Gannon, senior director, automotive, product management and product development, Epicor Software.
"The Smart Inspection 2.0 solution helps service businesses grow by streamlining and digitizing several of the most time-intensive steps in an automotive service transaction. It also helps users, both in the repair bay and at the service desk, avoid mistakes and more quickly and accurately identify needed repairs."
Optimized for use on mobile devices, Smart Inspection 2.0 helps the service writer and technician automate the inspection process and capture data and images to be used in developing an estimate.
Shops also can use the solution to document vehicle condition unrelated to the repair to avoid unwarranted damage claims, the company said.
The user can begin an inspection by scanning the Vehicle Identification Number or manually entering vehicle make, model and year information. The data trigger associated specifications and parts and labor lookups via the Epicor PartExpert eCatalog as inspection and diagnostic processes progress.
Optional integration with select vehicle diagnostic tools also is available, enabling the user to identify, define and address OBD trouble codes, identify components and determine recommended repairs, Epicor said.
The service writer or technician can use inspection results and associated parts and labor lookups to assemble and email or print a comprehensive estimate for customer approval. The solution also allows users to view pricing and availability of parts and related supplies via connected local suppliers, and to order these items with a single click once the estimate has been approved.
Epicor also recently announced that the Smart Inspection 2.0 will be integrated with CarMD.com Corp.'s CarMD Pro Scan diagnostic tool.