7 Things to Consider When Choosing Technology for Your Dealership

Rapidly evolving technology has changed the way consumers interact with dealerships when buying a car and the fundamental way that dealerships run. In the “old days,” a customer would walk into a dealership with no idea how much a car should cost, and dealers would use a pen and paper for everything. 

Fast forward to the present and consumers are more educated than ever. And that old pen and paper? They’re on the way out. We live in a world, now, of digital disruption, and dealers need help from technology to exceed the expectations of today’s consumer.

Amid this digital renaissance, whether it’s a robust DMS, a sleek website, or a seamless CRM, acquiring the right technology for your dealership is essential. 

As per a study by AutoTrader, 72% of consumers express a willingness to increase their dealership visits with an improved buying process. This underscores the transformative role that technology plays not only in meeting customer expectations but also in fostering significant business growth.

But how do you navigate the myriad options and avoid the pitfall of choosing technology that doesn’t align with your needs? The good news is, you don’t have to face this challenge alone.

In this blog we’ve discussed seven crucial considerations to guide you in selecting technology that’ll help you keep pace with the evolving expectations of today’s savvy consumers. So, let’s dive in and demystify the process, making the adoption of technology an empowering step toward automotive excellence.

7 Things to Consider When Choosing Technology For Your Dealership

Choosing the right technology for your dealership can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. 

However, with the right considerations, you can make an informed decision that will help your business thrive. So let’s explore the 7 things to consider when choosing technology for your dealership:

1. Business Needs and Goals

The first and foremost consideration when choosing technology for your dealership is to understand your business needs and goals. Different dealerships have different requirements, and it’s essential to identify what your dealership needs to achieve its objectives. 

For instance, if your dealership focuses on customer service, you may need technology that improves communication and streamlines the customer experience. On the other hand, if your dealership prioritizes inventory management, you may need technology that helps you track and manage your inventory more efficiently.

Autosoft understands the importance of aligning technology with business needs and goals. That’s why it offers a range of solutions that cater to different dealership needs. 

2. Integration with Existing Systems

Another crucial consideration when choosing technology for your dealership is integration with existing systems. You don’t want to invest in technology that doesn’t work well with your current systems, as this can lead to inefficiencies and wasted resources. 

A flexible integration program will enable you to create your own technology strategy and will likely save you money. So be sure to make a list of your current technology solutions and find out whether the new and current solutions can integrate with each other.

3. Scalability

Your dealership’s technology needs will evolve as your business grows, which means you need technology that can scale with your business. You don’t want to invest in technology that will become obsolete or inadequate as your dealership expands. 

So choose technology that can adapt to your growing needs and provide the necessary support as your business evolves.

Autosoft’s solutions are designed to scale with your business. The cloud-based software can grow with your dealership, providing the necessary tools and support as you expand. 

4. User Experience

The user experience is a critical factor to consider when choosing technology for your dealership. The technology you choose should be easy to use and intuitive, with a user-friendly interface that your staff can quickly adopt. 

The last thing you want is technology that confuses or frustrates your staff, leading to low adoption rates and inefficiencies.

Autosoft’s solutions are designed with the user in mind. The software is intuitive and user-friendly, with a clean and simple interface that makes it easy for your staff to navigate. 

It also provides comprehensive training and support to ensure your staff can use our solutions effectively, maximizing adoption and productivity.

5. Security and Compliance

Data security and compliance are critical considerations when choosing technology for your dealership. You need technology that can protect your customers’ sensitive information and ensure compliance with industry regulations. 

It’s essential to choose technology that has robust security features and can help you maintain compliance with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

6. Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)

The cost of technology is a significant consideration for any dealership. You need technology that provides a strong return on investment (ROI) and doesn’t break the bank. 

When shopping for a new technology, setting a budget should be a priority. Factors such as your current costs, the potential ROI of a new solution, and the estimated payback period should all be taken into consideration. 

Be realistic when you are creating your budget and expect that if you want cutting-edge technology, it will cost you more than a basic solution. When you’re looking at estimates, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. A Ferrari doesn’t compare to a Mini Van. And don’t worry too much about an increased budget. 

When you improve technology, you can increase efficiencies and improve the customer experience, thus, increasing your profits.

And choose technology that aligns with your budget as well as provides tangible benefits that outweigh the costs.

Autosoft’s solutions are designed to provide a strong ROI. The software can help you streamline your operations, improve customer satisfaction, and increase revenue. It also offers flexible pricing options that align with your budget, ensuring that you get the technology you need without breaking the bank.

7. Support and Training 

You need technology that provides ongoing support and training to ensure your staff can use it effectively and efficiently. The last thing you want is technology that leaves you stranded, with no support or training to help you resolve issues or maximize its potential.

☑️ So ask potential technology providers about their support infrastructure. 

• What mechanisms are in place for troubleshooting? 
• Is there a dedicated support team? 

Knowing that assistance is readily available can be a game-changer when challenges arise. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the partnership.

☑️ Technology is only as effective as the team using it. Inquire about the training programs offered. 

• Is there a structured onboarding process? 
• Are there ongoing training opportunities as the technology evolves? 

A provider invested in your success will prioritize keeping your team up-to-date and proficient.

For example, Autosoft provides comprehensive support and training to ensure you get the most out of our solutions. The support team is available 24/7 to help you resolve any issues or answer any questions you may have. Autosoft also offers regular training sessions and resources, such as webinars, videos, and user guides, to help your staff use our software effectively and efficiently.

☑️ Understanding the implementation process is vital. What does the roadmap look like from acquisition to operational use? Is the technology user-friendly, and how long does it typically take for your team to become proficient? Be prepared to embrace change, involve your staff in the decision-making process, and allocate sufficient time for a smooth transition.

☑️ Make your team part of the decision-making process. Their insights into daily operations can be invaluable, and involving them early fosters a sense of ownership. Transitioning to new technology becomes a collective effort, minimizing resistance and enhancing engagement.

Moreover, acknowledge that unforeseen factors can influence the timing of technology installations. Flexibility is key. Be realistic about the time required for implementation and training, and communicate this timeline to your team. A well-managed transition sets the stage for successful adoption.

Note that, the goal isn’t just to have cutting-edge technology; it’s to leverage it to its full potential with a team that is empowered and supported. So, when diving into the tech landscape, think beyond the features—focus on the ongoing relationship and empowerment that comes with it.

Expert Tip: Consider Contract Length

The truly great technology companies don’t need to hold you hostage in a contract. They give you options when it comes to choosing your contract length, whether it be month-to-month, 1-year, or multi-year agreements. 

Be sure to ask about contract options as an initial question when you are starting a conversation with any technology provider. 

Here are a few  questions you should ask:

1. What Types of Contracts Do You Offer?

• Get an overview of the contract structures available. Are there different plans or packages to choose from?

2. Are There Any Early Termination Fees?

• Find out if there are penalties for terminating the contract before its completion. This is important in case your needs change unexpectedly.

3. Can Contracts be Customized to Fit Our Needs?

• Check if the provider offers flexibility in tailoring contracts to align with the specific requirements of your dealership.

4. What’s Included in the Standard Package?

• Understand the baseline offerings included in the standard contract. This will help you evaluate if additional features are necessary.

5. How Are Updates and Upgrades Handled?

• Ask about the process for updates and upgrades. Are they included in the contract, or do they come with an additional cost?

6. Are There Any Hidden Costs?

• Get a clear picture of any potential hidden costs, such as additional user fees, service charges, or other unforeseen expenses.

7. How Can the Contract Evolve as Our Needs Change?

• Explore the provider’s flexibility in adjusting the contract as your dealership grows or if there are changes in your technology requirements.

8. What Happens in Case of System Downtime?

• Inquire about the provider’s policies and compensations in the event of system downtime or disruptions in service.

Also, weigh the benefits of month-to-month flexibility versus long-term savings by entering into a term contract—it’s nice when you have the choice. You should also be on the lookout for auto-renewal clauses in your contract. 

If there is one, make sure you add the renewal date to your calendar so you don’t unknowingly get trapped into another 5 years down the road.

The Bottom Line

To ensure your chosen technology aligns seamlessly with your needs and propels your dealership forward, delve into the provider’s product roadmap. 

A forward-thinking partner is essential—one that continually evolves and enhances its offerings. The ability to adapt to a changing industry landscape is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity.

Implementing a new technology in your dealership is no easy task. Change can be hard for you and for your staff. But if you prepare yourself, do your research, and look at these 7 key areas when comparing potential technology partners, you’ll quickly be on the road to better technology and increased profits.

Author

Debby Palmiter

About Debby Palmiter