Fixed-Ops

The Internet of Things, or IoT, refers to the billions of physical devices around the world that are now connected to the internet, all collecting data, sharing data, and using data to communicate and perform functions for us. This is all made possibly by...

In wake of a global pandemic, the safety of guests and employees is foremost on dealers’ minds. Safety is foremost on the minds of your customers too. While health and safety are important, it is also important not to lose sight of industry best...

We’ve seen much change in the automotive industry since ‘social distancing’ became a term trending on Twitter earlier this year. From manufacturer shutdowns and stay-at-home orders forcing dealers to shutter all but the service department and PPE requirements upon return, the retail automotive environment...

In today's segment, we’re pleased to welcome Fred Fordin, Vice President of Consulting Services for CDK Global. In this interview, Jim and Fred discuss how he has spent the first few months in this role, and how CDK Consulting is helping customers now in...

For any business, success can be measured by the increase in their profit and loss or revenue, or by their customer base continuing to grow. To help retain customers between purchases, many industries have created a structure or system to reward long term customers....

A crisis can come suddenly or result from a series of events that occur over time. Regardless, we never wish it upon us and it’s never welcomed. As disorder, confusion and, at times, calamity ensues, quick answers are essential and straight away, leaders are...

With social distancing, and “shelter-in-place” orders issued in many states, automotive service and aftermarket shops continue to operate, but under a different set of rules and expectations. A survey conducted April 1-7 by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) of its member companies indicates that...

The coronavirus has drastically changed the way we live, work, and play. As our current situation continues with no definitive end in sight, businesses, including car dealer service centers, are adapting to what may possibly become the new norm for several weeks to come. The...

Talented help has been in short supply in the automotive dealership fixed operations realm for decades. Key roles such as parts managers, parts clerks, service advisors, service technicians - just about every single fixed ops position is typically ‘always hiring’. Inevitably, this phenomenon has...

As the coronavirus pandemic stretches from weeks into months, dealers are shifting focus from short-term fixes to long-term plans in order to adapt to the lengthening economic restrictions. As car sales continue to slide, fixed-ops will necessarily become a bigger part of the plan...