During AAPEX 2022, Autosphere had a chance to sit down with the team from Mitchell 1 and learn about some important updates to its staple auto repair solutions.
Director of Product Management, Ben Johnson, explained that the emphasis at Mitchell 1 is to ensure technicians are focused on the specific issue as quickly as possible. In ProDemand—widely considered the benchmark diagnostic and repair solution for the automotive aftermarket—Johnson explained that the exclusive wiring diagrams contained within the software now include wire-to-wire highlighting to speed diagnostics. In other words, a technician can much more easily find and pinpoint a specific diagram within the system, an important consideration as vehicles become increasingly electrified.
Additionally, as more OEMs bring an increasing number of hybrids and battery electric vehicles to market, ProDemand is now offering enhanced EV search capabilities. Johnson said that with the growth in EVs comes a lot of new technology and terms, which can make it very difficult for technicians to search for specific items if they aren’t familiar. “We’ve really spent a lot of time this past year, going through our Taxonomy and Ontology engines to make sure that we understood what OEMs call certain components on an EV and that technicians, who are using our products can successfully find these terms and the aspect of the vehicle they are looking for.” The result, said Johnson, is much enhanced EV search capability, saving time in the service bay.
Mitchell 1 has also updated its ManagerSE shop management software, with expanded electronic parts catalogs-integrating WHI Nexpart Multi-Seller and PartsTech. Now, ManagerSE users can get free access to these catalogues, so they can quickly find parts in their local area at the best price.
ManagerSE has also been upgraded with new contactless payment functions. A new text-to-pay option, developed with 1stMile, enables quick processing of payments, while an invoice sharing function via MessageCenter, allows both shops to provide a link to customers that enables them to download their final repair invoice. Additionally, estimates can now be approved by customers via text, boosting transparency and saving time.
Mitchell 1’s SocialCRM solution has been updated for 2022 with a new (and exclusive) Google ReScore feature. This provides service centres with an opportunity to effectively deal with poor reviews, while a SureCritic function helps turn negative reviews into positive experiences, enabling shops to generate true long-term customer loyalty and retention.
