Automotive repair software is growing and is quickly becoming a staple in the repair industry. There are several types of software for auto service shops out there today. These different programs serve several different purposes. Many of these are jobs that were done by hand just a few years ago. Let’s take a look at some of the functions these programs are automating.
Inventory
No one likes doing inventory, but it is a necessary evil. This is a feature several software vendors have started bundling into their products or selling as an add on. With the use of a shop management software, you can track your inventory without all of the manual database or spreadsheet entries. Given the stock of parts in most shops this can save a substantial amount of time at the end of the month when it is time to do parts inventory. With most of this software, you can even add a bar code scanner. So, imagine this scenario: you have a terminal running the inventory software and a bar code scanner by the door to the inventory room. Whenever someone takes a part they scan it, and it is automatically subtracted from inventory. This is a broad overview, yes, but it should give you an idea of the convenience this type of system can add.
Repair Guides
Traditionally, shops have relied on paper manuals for this information, but with the continued rise of the internet this information is now available more readily than ever before. Most auto repair software will have labor manuals included for walking you though a particular repair and even diagnostics. These guides are also available as standalone software, but you should consider getting it as a part of a bundle to save money. These guides will often contain videos as well as written instructions. This can prove invaluable for uncommon repairs or for newer vehicles that you and your staff may not have worked with much yet. When searching for a program for your shop be sure to look for this feature.
