Managing hundreds of fleet vehicles on behalf of multiple customers – each with its own maintenance needs and uptime demands – can be a constant challenge for any shop performing third-party work. Coordinating schedules, staying ahead of issues, and minimizing downtime requires exceptional efficiency and organization.

Just ask Scott LaPolla, owner of South Florida Mobile Auto Repair, an on-site fleet management, maintenance, and repair company that performs extensive work directly at customer locations.

His business has experienced significant growth, thanks to a first-of-its-kind integration with VOYOLink, which uses telematics to remotely provide vehicle service data to shops.

The platform is fully integrated with Mitchell 1’s industry-leading shop management systems: Manager SE for automotive and light-duty truck repair, and Manager SE Truck Edition – tailored for Class 4–8 vehicles, designed to work seamlessly with TruckSeries repair information.

“VOYOLink has been a game-changer for our business,” said LaPolla. “It’s made us more proactive, more organized, and more profitable – and our customers love it.”

The advanced telematics solution delivers real-time vehicle health alerts and maintenance notifications directly into the shop management workflow. It enables connected shops to provide smarter, efficient maintenance on commercial vehicles while significantly reducing vehicle downtime.

South Florida Mobile Auto Repair oversees 400+ fleet vehicles connected with VOYO or Samsara telematics devices. The integration with telematics has not only improved customer relationships but also driven significant revenue growth.

Data-Driven Results

Mitchell 1 analysts reviewed South Florida Mobile’s data in Manager SE, comparing periods before and after the VOYOLink integration.

The results confirm that revenue per vehicle increased 30% due to an uptick in service calls and revenue per service call.

The improved productivity has enabled the shop to add two more technicians and service vehicles to handle the increased workload.

Scott LaPolla owns South Florida Mobile Auto Repair, which experienced significant growth by integrating VOYOLink with Manager SE.

Servicing Vehicles at the Point of Need

Previously, South Florida Mobile maintained fleets on a manual rotation cycle. This required frequent customer calls and limited the ability to align maintenance timing with actual vehicle usage and condition

“VOYOLink helps us service vehicles when they actually need it – not too early, not too late – and that has really boosted our revenue per vehicle,” said LaPolla. “We’re seeing more service calls, and each one is more profitable because we know exactly what needs to be done.”

The service alerts are based on real-time data, including odometer, predictive battery failure, remaining oil life, and module codes – including those that don’t trigger dash indicators. The alerts are automatically sent to the shop and posted to their Manager SE system.

Fleets can access their service data via VOYOLink or using their fleet application. Notifications are also sent by text or email – ensuring vehicles are serviced when they need attention.

With VOYOLink plus Manager SE, South Florida Mobile can now:

• Schedule services only when needed, improving technician utilization and service efficiency
• Perform more maintenance proactively, addressing issues before they become major problems
• Significantly reduce vehicle downtime, improving customer satisfaction

Seamless Shop Management Integration

VOYOLink’s integration with Manager SE is key to its effectiveness, noted LaPolla: “Manager SE handles all our billing, scheduling and tracking of alerts; whereas VOYO makes it easier to organize vehicles, see company unit numbers, and get a full view of their service alert history. Together, they make our whole operation smoother and more productive.”

The integration allows South Florida Mobile Repair to:

• Know in advance when a vehicle has upcoming preventative maintenance due
• Review and assess vehicle module codes fleet wide from a single glance without having to manually scan a vehicle
• Create a repair order in advance of a vehicle being brought into the shop to provide and confirm service quotations
• Leverage preloaded remote data to access diagnostics and wiring diagrams directly in TruckSeries or Mitchell 1’s ProDemand® repair information for autos and light trucks.

He added that it’s simple to connect VOYO with Manager SE. “You just hit the onboard button, and it’s all set up,” he said. “You start receiving all the codes and service notifications immediately in your shop management system.”

Better for Customers, Better for Business

One of the most impactful benefits of VOYOLink telematics is how it reduces the burden on fleet managers. By managing alerts, scheduling and repair approvals, South Florida Mobile ensures less downtime, fewer disruptions and smoother operations for customers’ fleets.

“Essentially, we take management off the fleet manager’s plate, making their job easier so they can focus on higher priorities,” LaPolla said. “They don’t need to shuffle vehicles between multiple shops – tire shops, transmission shops, engine repair shops and dealers. We’re more or less a one-stop shop for businesses.”

This proactive approach has strengthened customer relationships, he noted. It builds trust and demonstrates value, allowing fleet customers to focus on operations while their vehicles stay maintained.

The results speak for themselves: fewer service disruptions and higher average repair order (ARO). Overall, South Florida Mobile has seen a significant net revenue increase per vehicle, driven by smarter maintenance, more service calls and higher-value repairs.

Providing Measurable Results

For fleet maintenance shops looking to improve efficiency, reduce downtime and increase revenue, VOYOLink offers a fully integrated, data-driven solution that delivers measurable results.

Here’s how it works: VOYO connects fleet vehicles to your shop’s management system using telematics devices like VOYO and popular third-party fleet systems such as Geotab, Samsara, Matrack and Azuga. Key features include:

• Ease of Use: Connecting VOYOLink with Manager SE is simple and done in under three minutes. Fleet owners can connect to a shop with a single click.
• Huge Installed Base: Connecting popular third-party telematics systems to a shop is done in five minutes.
• Continuous Monitoring: Tracks odometer, remaining oil life, battery health, tire service schedules and manufacturer-specific module codes.
•  Automated Alerts: Posts service alerts directly to Manager SE. Notifications are also available using VOYOLink text or email.
•  Professional diagnostic data: VOYOLink telematics provide advanced vehicle health data, including manufacturer codes from all controllers, controller name, symptom by data, code status, and freeze frame data.
• Revenue Opportunity: Shops can serve as VOYO telematics resellers and earn recurring revenues from monthly and annual fleet subscriptions.

Click HERE to view the recorded interview with Scott LaPolla.

Getting Started

Becoming a “Connected Shop” takes less than three minutes. Simply visit  www.VOYOLink.com/M1 and create an account. Once your account is created, your customers will be able to link to your shop with a single click from the VOYOLink website and alerts will be automatically posted your Manager SE system.

Connect VOYOLink to your Manager SE account today: CLICK HERE

Related Articles:

• Unlock Value with VOYOLink: Proactively Connecting Customer Vehicles to Your Auto Repair Shop
• Connect More Customers to Your Manager SE System with VOYO Telematics Devices
• Mitchell 1 Integrates VOYOLink Connected Car Platform with Shop Management Software

The post How VOYOLink Telematics + Manager SE Supercharged South Florida Mobile Fleet Repair Operations appeared first on Mitchell1.

Manager SE Truck Edition + FinditParts eCatalog: A Powerful Combo For Fleet Operations

Let’s face it — tracking down the right parts for heavy-duty trucks can be a major hassle. For repair shops, every minute spent scouring catalogs or making endless phone calls is time you could be spending on what really matters: fixing trucks and making your customers happy.

What if you could skip the hassle and go straight to the solution? Thanks to a strategic partnership between Mitchell 1 and FinditParts, Inc., your shop can do just that.

The FinditParts Infinite Warehouse catalog is now fully integrated with Mitchell 1’s Manager SE Truck Edition software. It is the first-ever online parts catalog for Class 4-8 vehicles that works hand-in-hand with a shop management system.

Stop Searching, Start Fixing!

By combining the power of FinditParts’ comprehensive parts catalog with Manager SE’s industry-leading shop management software, you can say goodbye to time-consuming searches and hello to instant access to millions of OEM and aftermarket parts for medium-duty, heavy-duty and trailers.

Here’s how it works:

• Real-Time Pricing: Get up-to-the-minute prices directly from FinditParts’ catalog
• Seamless Workflow: No more hopping between systems — access everything within Manager SE Truck Edition
• On-the-Spot Updates: Quickly add parts to quotes and work orders without missing a beat

David Seewack, CEO of FinditParts, sums it up perfectly:

“This partnership makes it incredibly easy for technicians to find and order everything from routine items to hard-to-find parts. It’s all about saving time and simplifying the process so shops can focus on what they do best.”

Why This Integration is a Game-Changer

With over 7 million SKUs and 1,000+ brands, the FinditParts catalog is the ultimate one-stop shop for parts sourcing. From Class 1-8 vehicles to heavy-duty trailers, it has you covered.

Here’s what you get:

• Unmatched Access: Find the parts you need, no matter how obscure
• Enhanced Cross-Referencing Tools: Verify and select parts with confidence
• Extended Support Hours: Need help? FinditParts’ virtual parts counter is available 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. EST

Kristy Coffman, director of Mitchell 1’s Commercial Vehicle Group, adds:

“Our customers have been asking for a solution like this, and we’re proud to deliver it. This integration reflects our commitment to equipping repair shops with industry-leading tools that save time and improve efficiency.”

Why Your Shop Needs This

Imagine the time you’ll save when sourcing parts takes seconds, not hours. With this integration, you can reduce stress, improve productivity, and keep your team focused on getting vehicles back on the road.

Ready to Upgrade Your Shop?

Activating the FinditParts catalog in Mitchell1’s Manager SE Truck Edition is easy, and the benefits are endless. From faster repairs to happier customers, this tool is a must-have for any shop looking to stay ahead.

Visit the FinditParts-Mitchell 1 sign-up page today to learn more — and as a bonus, claim your welcome prize while you’re at it!

The post Parts Sourcing for Heavy-Duty Trucks Just Got Easier with FinditParts appeared first on Mitchell1.

The new feature set enhances the workflow on your Order, Revision and History screens while improving the clarity of documents shared with your customers. It makes it easier than ever to stay organized, deliver clear, professional estimates and invoices, and secure faster customer approvals.

• Watch the Job View demo to see how this improves your workflow: https://youtu.be/W2EjXi-rcxo
• Learn more about the other Presentation tab options seen above: https://youtu.be/7C-zOMbeLik

READY TO GET STARTED?

To activate the Job View feature set, please follow the instructions below:

1. Navigate to Configurations > Shop Data Setup. The shop Data tabs are displayed.
2. Check the ‘Group by Job View’ checkbox then click on Done.

That’s it! This selection will inform Manager SE to now display the Job View screen features, along with the related Estimate & Repair Order document templates.

NOTE: If you have state-specific documents (FL, WI, MI, etc.), the appropriate EST and/or INV template(s) will automatically be selected based on your shop’s state visible under the Shop Data 1 tab.

KEY FEATURES: A DEEPER DIVE

Let’s delve deeper into the benefits of the Job View feature set:

Job Grouping

It all starts with the ‘Group by Job View’ checkbox on the Presentation tab. This setting allows the logical grouping of job-related labor, parts, sublets and notes into easy-to-read job containers, streamlining presentation on screen for shop staff and the resulting documents for customers.

Quick Handling of Deferred Work

Any jobs not sold today can quickly be saved to any available tab in the Revisions screen with a single click. The destination tab is automatically renamed to reflect the job, so it’s ready to sell on your customer’s next shop visit. This small but impactful feature ensures you never lose track of previously estimated work, improving sales potential and overall workflow efficiency.

Profit Per Job at Your Fingertips

Job View makes it possible to now confirm the profitability of individual jobs, providing confidence in your shop’s direction, ensuring you meet shop performance goals. The Check Profit screen gains additional insights for Manager SE shops with the brand-new Gross Profit $ per Hour calculation.

Multiple Discount Options

Apply discounts exactly how you need them. Job View supports an order-level discount (customer type or similar, etc.) plus multiple job-specific discounts, allowing shops to discount any jobs they want to.

Customizable Appearance for Your WIP/Order Screens

Personalize your workspace to fit your needs. With multiple font styles and sizes with a bold text option, plus a new a dark mode option, users can now further customize the appearance of their screens to ensure maximum readability. Best of all, these screen preferences are always saved to User profiles.

In future shop blogs, we will explore more of the new Job View features.

The post Boost Efficiency with Manager SE 9.1: Explore the Game-Changing ‘Job View’ Set of Features appeared first on Mitchell1.

At Mitchell 1, our goal is to create auto shop solutions that boost efficiency and simplify life in the shop.

So, how can you make your shop more efficient?

• Get started: Configure MessageCenter texting in your Manager SE shop management system
• Beyond on-the-fly text messages; use templates for more detailed and personalized messaging
• Create custom templates specific to messaging directly from various Manager SE screens
  • Work-In-Progress, Order, Revision, Appointment Editor or MPI (optional) screens
  • Templates can include database fields (customer, vehicle, service writer, shop, etc.)
• Your conversations with customers (text threads) are saved in console for later review

How it Begins

The customer arrives at your repair shop with a specific vehicle complaint they want addressed. However, once the vehicle is in the service bay, the technician may identify other vehicle issues that need to be addressed. Some of these raise safety risks for the driver.

Solving the Eternal Problem

Once the owner drops their keys at the counter, the shop assigns a technician to address the vehicle complaint they want to be remedied. Based on the technician’s findings, the service advisor creates an estimate to present to the customer and gain their approval to proceed with the work required.

The shop now has all of the details together to remedy ths customer’s original vehicle complaint plus any additional findings the technician provided. Yes, everything except the customer’s approval. Sometimes this proves elusive; as if the shop has to play hide and seek, trying to track them down to get their OK. The shop calls them on the phone – goes to voicemail or “this customer does not yet have a voicemail box setup”. You try the email address on file; is that business or personal? How soon will they see it and respond? Did you email them before? Did your email end up in a spam folder?

The importance of quick, successful customer communications is obvious, as the service advisor needs to clearly convey the original vehicle complaint will be solved but there are additional vehicle concerns that must be discussed and approved by the customer or deferred to Revisions as additional repair needs to be addressed on future visits if not performed now.

This Back and Forth Impacts Shop Efficiency

The longer it takes to get that customer’s approval, the more your shop efficiancy diminishes. The time the service advisor spends on trying to resolve the customer contact issue, perhaps the vehicle is on the hoist now, wheels and tires off, tying up the hoist from bringing in another vehicle. If we could get that okay now, the additional repairs identified could be carried out as a win-win for everyone. When the wheels and tires need to be put back on and the car pushed outside for lack of customer approval, more overhead has added for the shop to absorb.

TEXTING is the answer

Instead of numerous phone call attempts just to be reverted to the customer’s voicemail over again, your shop needs a surefire way to communicate quickly, accurately and straight to the point.

As the clock continues to click… you now have a vehicle tying up your repair bay.

Ever experienced this?

Reaching customers when you need to get crucial answers quickly can be a constant challenge, but text messaging has allowed businesses to battle the issue. This method has actually become so popular that it is now a primary communication method for many of Mitchell 1’s partnered shops today.

Shop Solutions to Address the Problem

With Manager SE’s texting functionalities, you can receive responses from your customers in a timely manner with the optional MessageCenter feature. As an add-on seamlessly integrated with your shop management system, you can instantly send two-way texting directly from Manager SE!

How Does It Work?

Each repair shop is provided with a dedicated texting phone number, so you never have to leave your Manager SE program. The feature is complete with custom functionalities that allow you to build your own text message templates that are tailored to your shop for various orders, appointment confirmations and reminders, repair order revisions and approvals, and more!

That’s not all – The custom text messages you build can even be saved and used again for future customer communications.

It’s Easy to Get Started

Once you’ve added MessageCenter to your account, your toll-free texting number becomes available once a Pending status is completed Then go to Manager SE’s Configurations menu – select Text Messaging Setup option. When you click on Request Texting Phone # , your number will populate and be ready to use.

For more information on how Mitchell 1 can supercharge your auto repair shop’s text message marketing, click HERE.

The post Get Instant Customer Approvals with MessageCenter Texting in Manager SE appeared first on Mitchell1.

See it in action on the Mitchell 1 YouTube Channel

From time to time, your customers request repair history information for one or more of their vehicles. While this has been a time-consuming task when they ask for multiple or specific history invoices, we have a couple new selection methods to speed up this process.

In addition to the Customer and Vehicle Summary report format, there is a new option for outputting the Manager SE invoices exactly as they originally appeared when they were posted to history. You may print hard copies for mailing or select PDF format for easy emailing.

Vehicle Printing Option

Vehicle view displays history invoices for only the selected vehicle (highlighted below).

Customer Printing Option

Changing to the Customer view displays history invoices for ALL the vehicles owned by the customer.

NEW History Options

Whether using the Vehicle or Customer view, there are new options for selecting and rendering selected history information. In addition to the existing Customer and Vehicle Report summary option, you can now print each actual invoice as it was presented to the customer at the time of posting.

Shortcuts for Selecting Multiple History Invoices

Select SPECIFIC invoices via one of these NEWLY ADDED keyboard methods:

History Invoice Output Options

Once you click on the Print button as shown, you may choose either the existing Customer and Vehicle Report summary option OR the NEW Batch Selected Invoices option (single “print job”).

When the Batch Selected Invoices option is selected, there are Report Selection options output as PDF for email or Printer for hard copies.

SEE IT IN ACTION

Watch the demo video to watch these steps and the different options performed.

BONUS: In case you missed it, you can select a Technician Worksheet with History option

Technician Worksheet with History

Technicians benefit directly from access to previous repair activity (service dates, mileage readings, invoice #s) summarized by Category. Plus, they can do this without having to ask the service advisor to perform a history search, leading to improved shop efficiency with this streamlined workflow.

Selecting this technician Worksheet option, history information will appear below the Tech Notes.

Make history with Manager SE – easily share it back to your customers.

The post Process Customer History Requests Faster in Manager SE appeared first on Mitchell1.

If you want to elevate your auto repair business, you should seriously think about investing in a digital vehicle inspection tool. In today’s competitive market, staying ahead means embracing technology that enhances efficiency accuracy and customer satisfaction. Let’s explore why digital vehicle inspections (DVIs) are becoming essential for auto repair businesses.

Efficiency Boost

Traditional pen-and-paper inspection processes are time-consuming and prone to errors. With a digital vehicle inspection tool, you can streamline your workflow. Technicians can easily input data using a tablet or smartphone, eliminating the need for manual paperwork. This not only saves time but also allows your team to complete more inspections in less time, increasing your shop’s overall productivity.

Enhanced Customer Experience

Today’s customers expect transparency and convenience. With DVIs, you can provide them with both. Detailed inspection reports can be easily shared with customers, giving them a clear understanding of their vehicle’s condition and any recommended repairs. This transparency builds trust and demonstrates your commitment to their safety and satisfaction.

Customers appreciate the real-time updates via text, potentially with photos and technician notes to simplify decision-making. Most customers don’t need every detail—they need the peace of mind that comes from open communications.

Technicians are also empowered to easily answer questions, upsell and make future recommendations to provide next-level customer service. That earned trust can elevate your shop’s average repair order, increase referrals and help build a better bottom line.

Accurate Assessments

Accuracy is crucial in the auto repair industry. Mistakes or oversights during inspections can lead to costly repairs down the line and, more importantly, compromise customer safety. Digital vehicle inspection tools provide a structured framework for technicians to follow, ensuring that no aspect of the inspection is missed. Plus, digital records are less susceptible to human error, giving you confidence in the reliability of your reports.

Increased Profits

Investing in a digital vehicle inspection tool is an investment in your shop’s profitability. By reducing inspection time, minimizing errors  and improving customer satisfaction, DVIs can lead to increased revenue. Faster inspections mean more throughput, while satisfied customers are more likely to return for future services and refer others to your shop.

Introducing Mitchell 1 Digital Vehicle Inspection Software

Mitchell 1 provides innovative repair shop solutions that harness the power of digital technology. We continue that tradition with the most advanced digital vehicle inspection software for auto repair centers with the ProSpect and Mobile ManagerPro applications.

The digitally completed shop-customized forms describe the condition of everything from brakes to suspension, alignment, tires and more, using easy-to-understand color coding. Green means good, yellow is for instance where repairs may be needed soon and red is for issues warranting an immediate fix.

Mitchell 1 understands that every auto repair facility has its own way of doing business and performing services. That’s why we have ensured our automotive digital inspection software features multi-point inspection templates that allow shop owners to tailor their inspection process to service more vehicles, increase productivity and grow their business.

Digital Vehicle Inspection Applications

ProSpect: Base-level

ProSpect is a wireless, vehicle check-in and mobile inspection solution for automotive and Class 4-8 truck repair shops. It is a seamlessly integrated add-on to the Mitchell 1 shop management software, Manager SE and Manager SE Truck Edition.

ProSpect features the familiar multi-point inspection process and creates easy-to-understand reports to keep customers in the loop. It also supports the inspection process with custom templates for shop-specific DVI guides that create more consistent inspections, avoiding errors and omissions, intilling customers with confidence to approve the repair work identified during the inspection.

Mobile ManagerPro: Premium

While ProSpect integrates seamlessly with Manager SE, leveling up unlocks additional capabilities. Mobile ManagerPro extends the full functionality of the Mitchell 1 Manager SE shop management system to mobile devices for portability.

The multi-point, fully customizable color-coded inspections provide sections for technician notes and recommendations (image below). The notes section is really the go-to place for detailing problems and the recommendations area is the place to offer solutions for vehicle repair issues identified.

Failing to provide compelling evidence lessens the likelihood that the customer will consider an additional repair. By including detailed notes and imagery in the inspections, you’re able to illustrate why the repairs are needed to properly maintain the vehicle in terms of safety and reliability. Therefore increasing the probability that the customer will authorize repairs.

The key difference here is that Mobile Manager Pro acts as the premium level of a digital vehicle inspection tool. It incorporates not only multi-point inspections with DVI guides, but also provides service professionals with full connectivity. This includes access to repair information, estimates, and repair orders right at the vehicle, as well as scheduling, text message reminders, reports, digital signature capture and more. Additionally, the app offers instant team chat messaging directly within the platform.

Click below to view the key features comparison chart for both inspection tools: 

When your shop’s technicians are fully mobile and equipped with the latest repair technology, your shop can deliver the most accurate inspections in less time. Your customers will appreciate a clear picture of the inspection results, allowing them to see what components require repair or replacement—and why.

Technicians have the power to communicate those insights to help customers make an informed decision with inspections that include documentation, and potentially images, supported by OEM information and SureTrack expert community content exclusively accessed by technicians using Mobile ManagerPro.

When you’re ready to put auto repair digital inspections to work in your repair shop, Mitchell 1’s applications are the best, providing two great options to match your business.

Let Mitchell 1 Inspection Software Help Expand Your Business

Like most of us, your customers appreciate digital tools that make life and work more manageable. When your repair center adopts digital vehicle inspections, customers will view your shop as a professional and progressive business. Providing superior customer service using advanced tools and technology will put your shop ahead of the pack today and in the future.

Mitchell 1 provides in-depth support for product content, technical issues and all our digital tools to keep your repair shop running on all cylinders. From our first auto electrical manual in 1918 to today’s most innovative repair shop solutions, we’re on a mission to help repair shops grow. When you’re ready to invest in auto repair technology, Mitchell 1 is your trusted resource for meeting the demands of the auto repair business.

Ready to Get Started?

Get a FREE demo of Mitchell 1’s vehicle inspection software today & grow your business!

CLICK HERE or call 888-724-6742

The post Digital Vehicle Inspections Build Trust and Healthier Bottom Lines appeared first on Mitchell1.

Is your auto repair business facing a shortage of skilled technicians? You’re not alone. With the labor shortage, it’s essential to learn how to retain technicians for ensuring your shop’s success. As fewer people enter the industry and seasoned techs retire, filling positions is becoming more and more challenging.

As with any recruitment/hiring process, when a tenured team member leaves, their replacement needs time to train and get up to speed. A technician retention strategy is the ideal solution to minimize the impact of the labor shortage – and it starts with smart hiring.

Smart Hiring: The Key to Retaining Technicians

Not everyone is an expert on how to retain technicians, but we all know it’s much more cost-effective than recruiting and training new ones. We also know repair technicians can leave us anytime for many reasons. While interviewing prospective technicians isn’t a favorite activity for busy shop owners, it’s critical to adopt a consistent and effective hiring process.

The process should identify your applicant’s essential skills and other attributes to ensure they are a qualified hire. However, it must go both ways. Candidates must clearly understand your job expectations, pay, benefits and shop culture. The more in-depth the hiring process, the more likely you and your new technician will have a successful working relationship.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits Are Essential

Every shop owner knows that attractive wages can entice applicants and retain technicians. However, a technician’s salary is only the start. Conventional benefits like insurance, vacation time and performance bonuses should also be part of the package.

Once onboard, shop lunches, gift cards, tool allowances and other perks go a long way toward retaining technicians. Even seemingly minor things like shop uniform styles, employee-only restrooms, snacks and bottled water can have a major impact on hiring and keeping technicians.

The Best Technicians Work at the Best Shops

Your technicians deserve a safe and professional working environment, along with the best auto repair tools. Having tools and equipment readily available and well-maintained can really boost motivation and focus. Scanners, shop Wi-Fi, on-demand OEM repair information and specialty tools are must-haves for modern auto repairs.

• Efficient Management Processes: Having efficient shop management and workflow processes are the hallmark of a quality auto repair business. The focus on quality creates an environment that attracts and retains the best technicians.
• A Clean, Organized Shop: A clean and organized auto repair shop is essential for attracting and retaining skilled technicians. It sets a professional tone while making it easier for technicians to get their work done efficiently.
• Safe Working Conditions: When your shop is free from hazards, it not only keeps your team safe but also shows that you value their well-being and job satisfaction. Skilled technicians want to work in an environment where their safety is a priority; and let’s not forget about respect for their time and efforts.

Having a well-organized, clean and safe shop environment speaks volumes – it creates a positive vibe to foster loyalty and retention. So, investing in your shop environment isn’t just about attracting top talent; it’s about keeping them around for the long haul to ensure the success of your business.

Technician Retention Means Technician Development

Technician shortages, coupled with continuous vehicle innovations, create a double dilemma. Shop owners must address the gap between advanced vehicles and the high-level skills required to repair them. Fortunately, you can help fill the labor and skill gaps with sophisticated vehicle repair information and shop management software.

Cutting-edge repair information software like ProDemand and TruckSeries can attract tech-savvy aspiring technicians with up-to-date repair, diagnostic and estimating information. Vehicle repair software can also speed up new hire training and help tenured technicians develop the skills needed for modern auto repair.

In addition, shop management software like Manager SE and Manager SE Truck Edition gives you full visibility into each aspect of your shop so you can run your business at maximum efficiency. The software streamlines workflow – replacing pen and paper processes with automation for activities like managing technician assignments or conducting mobile digital inspections.

When your shop invests in technology that enhances technician development and makes their job easier, it positively impacts technician job satisfaction, customers and your bottom line.

Recognize, Reward and Repeat

Understanding how to keep technicians motivated and feeling appreciated makes your shop a better place to work. We all want to be recognized for our achievements, and most wouldn’t mind a reward! Recognition and rewards can be one of the most potent ways to bolster job satisfaction.

The rewards and the contributions don’t need to be particularly extravagant – whether congratulating your employee for a job well done or learning something new, there are many ways to show appreciation. Public or private recognition, work anniversary plaques, and a monetary bonus are all welcomed rewards. No matter the scenario, always take note and reward technicians for their contributions.

Empower Technicians With Engagement & Transparency

Experienced technicians know what it takes to increase your shop’s productivity. Encourage feedback from your team and ensure they understand how integral they are to your business success. Adopting open-book management is a proven way to engage technicians and help them understand their role in your business strategy.

Share your shop’s goals and business performance with data that can be captured with powerful business reports in Manager SE. The shop management software includes over 180 integrated reports that provide data on total sales, average RO amount, invoice profit summaries and more, which can be plotted by day, week, month and year for your convenience.

This level of transparency with employees can increase loyalty, productivity and technician satisfaction. Most of all, it gives your technicians a clear picture of how they fit into the process.

Build Long-Term Relationships With Your Technicians

Most technicians want a safe and productive workplace, job security and a good paycheck. However, many want and need a sense of belonging and appreciation. Showing respect, actively listening to feedback and sincere interest in your repair technicians’ well-being will set your shop apart. Quarterly one-on-one discussions with technicians can be a powerful relationship builder. The feedback you receive will help improve your business and keep technicians happy.

When technician retention becomes integral to your culture, you lay a foundation for business growth and increased employee loyalty. Building relationships and showing appreciation are key ingredients for keeping your technicians happy and sticking around, which is crucial for the future success of your shop. That’s where Mitchell 1 comes in – we offer tools and knowledge that empower technicians and help your repair shop tackle whatever challenges come its way.

The post Technician Retention: The Key to Growing Your Business appeared first on Mitchell1.

Is your auto repair shop burdened with customer appointment scheduling? Are you wasting valuable time scheduling appointments by phone, or manually sending emails and text messages? Mitchell 1 has your back with our Online Appointments feature. The powerful tool makes the scheduling process a breeze when you integrate Manager SE with SocialCRM shop marketing services.

The Online Appointments feature leverages automated text and emails, so you can run your shop with maximum efficiency and enhance your customers’ experience. The best part is you can manage all this on your Manager SE shop management dashboard. All it takes is 3 easy steps:

STEP 1: Customers can easily request appointments through the shop website or email links

STEP 2: With 1 click, you can confirm customer appointment requests directly in your management system!

STEP 3: Send automated reminders via email or text!

Are you ready to unlock the full capabilities of your Manager SE software? Let’s go!!

The process is initiated when the customer requests an appointment through your website or via SocialCRM emails.

When an appointment request comes in, you’ll receive an instant alert notification in real-time in your Manager SE software (shown below).

Your shop can then review the request and approve, or decline the appointment directly from the shop’s management system.

By integrating SocialCRM with your Manager SE software, your customers will receive a follow-up appointment reminder by email and/or text, without you having to lift a finger.

Online appointments create efficient workflows for your business so you can reduce the need for phone calls, and avoid navigating through different programs. You’ll save time and effort in obtaining new customers, confirming appointments, and sending follow-up reminders. Above all, you’ll boost sales and maximize your bottom line.

Want to learn more about SocialCRM and Online Appointments?

Request a FREE DEMO!

The post Upgrade Your Management System for Instant Online Appointment Scheduling appeared first on Mitchell1.

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, being proactive is just as critical as reactive services when a car rolls into your bay.  Mitchell 1’s recent partnership with Voyomotive – the creator of VOYOLink, connected car technology – has helped usher in a new era of proactive services for auto repair shops.

The VOYOLink web-based platform delivers alerts to vehicle owners and their connected shops. The good news is that the service is absolutely FREE for Manager SE users.

The VOYOLink seamlessly integrates with Manager SE and covers a wide range of crucial notifications – from scheduled service reminders to intricate engine and transmission problems – and even codes related to ABS and airbag systems.

VOYOLink can also detect issues that often don’t trigger a warning light on the dashboard. In fact, many vehicle owners were unaware of underlying problems until contacted by their auto repair center. This proactive approach not only ensures timely repairs but also prevents potential safety hazards.

Shops report that VOYOLink has increased service visits and customer satisfaction, translating to increased revenue. It also helps shops optimize scheduling, parts purchasing and technician assignments, so you can get a jumpstart on maintenance tasks before the vehicle arrives at your shop.

How it Works

The integration is made possible with the VOYOLink web-based platform and VOYO OBD-II telematic devices that connect vehicle owners to Manager SE-equipped repair shops.

Once the device is installed in the vehicle and connected, it sends vehicle data directly to the selected repair shop in real time. Customers can request to link to a shop through the search capability on the VOYOLink website and find “Connected Shops” in their area.

As the shop manager, you will receive a notification of the vehicle owner’s request in your Manager SE system. You can review the customer’s profile and decide if they’re a good fit for your shop. After accepting the request to connect the vehicle to your management system, the device will start sending you alerts.

Getting Started

Becoming a “Connected Shop” takes less than three minutes. Simply visit  www.VOYOLink.com/M1 and create an account. Once your account is created, your customers can link to your shop with a single click from the VOYOLink website and alerts will be automatically posted to Manager SE.

Connect VOYOLink to your Manager SE account today:

CLICK HERE

Related Articles: 

• Connect More Customers to Your Manager SE System with VOYO Telematics Devices
• Mitchell 1 Integrates VOYOLink Connected Car Platform with Shop Management Software

The post Unlock Value with VOYOLink: Proactively Connecting Customer Vehicles to Your Auto Repair Shop appeared first on Mitchell1.

Of all the tasks it takes to keep your business running, timekeeping and payroll processing are probably the least exciting and most routine. But that doesn’t mean that getting it right is always easy. Or that getting it wrong is no big deal.

Noncompliance with employment, labor and payroll tax laws can put your business under a microscope, and even lead to fines and penalties. 33% of employers make payroll errors, and roughly 40% of small businesses pay an average of $845 a year in IRS penalties because of mismanaged payroll processes.

To keep your business from becoming a statistic and your costs in check, it’s worth auditing your payroll processes to ensure you don’t fall victim to these common pitfalls:

1. Poor Record Keeping and Inaccurate Data

Like anything else in business, employing and paying workers generates a lot of paperwork. And preserving those records is important. Different federal, state and municipal agencies have rules defining what type of information employers should keep. For example, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires that individual employee’s records include no fewer than 14 different points of identifying information about the worker, the hours they work, and the wages they earn.

In addition to guidelines about what type of information employers should gather and store, laws also define how long that data should be kept. For example, the law requires that you hold on to the following documents for at least four years:

• Timesheets
• Canceled checks
• Tax forms
• Proof of past payments

It’s also important that employee information be 100 percent accurate. After your employees fill out their W-2s, make sure to double-check the following information:

• Employee’s full name
• Current address
• Social Security Number
• Start date
• Termination date (if applicable)
• Date of birth
• Payroll details, including hourly rate, overtime, etc.

For a more comprehensive list of labor and payroll tax recordkeeping requirements, visit the IRS’ or DOL’s websites.

2. Falling Behind on Payroll Tax and Filing Deadlines

Generally, the federal government collects payroll taxes on a pay-as-you-go basis. Almost half of all small businesses get fined every year for late or missed payments.

There are several recurring payroll tax deadlines you need to remember. A biweekly or monthly deadline is set by the IRS to deposit both withholding taxes and your share of taxes — including federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare taxes, and Federal Unemployment Tax. If you fail to make a timely deposit, you are subject to a penalty of up to 15 percent, depending on how late the deposit is. There are also quarterly and annual returns that you must file with your W-2s. For a complete list, check out the IRS’ website. Also, keep in mind you will likely be responsible for remitting payroll taxes on a state or even local level, which may require different information and/or be due at different times.

3. Withholding Errors

There are a lot of potential slip-ups in the withholding process. Misclassifying employees is one common mistake (we’ll get into that more later). Other potential pitfalls include:

• Failure to withhold federal and state taxes
• Inaccurate calculation of pre-tax and post-tax deductions
• Making incorrect deductions from exempt employee’s salaries
• Excluding taxable fringe benefits like gift cards, awards, and bonuses
• Excluding specific expense reimbursements from the employee’s taxable wages
• Issuing incorrect W-2 forms

4. Exempt or Non-Exempt?

A non-exempt employee (generally an hourly worker) is entitled to overtime pay while an exempt employee is not. When your non-exempt employees work more than 40 hours in a workweek, you owe them time and a half pay for those hours.

An employee must meet three criteria to be exempt from receiving overtime pay:

• Earns more than $684 per week, or $35,568 annually
• Is paid a predetermined or fixed salary, that can’t be reduced due to the quality or quantity of their work
• Primarily performs professional, executive or administrative duties as defined by the law

Employees who don’t meet these criteria are considered non-exempt and owed overtime pay under federal law, no matter the circumstance. For example, if an employee works overtime without advance approval, they’re still entitled to overtime pay. Asking non-exempt employees to work off of the clock, or compensating them with time off in lieu of overtime pay would also result in noncompliance with the law.

Keep in mind we’re only covering federal laws. States and even some municipalities have their own overtime regulations that business owners must also follow.

5. Contractor or Part-Time Employee?

Confusing an employee with a contractor can also cost you. Businesses are generally not required to withhold or pay taxes on payments to independent contractors who are subject to self-employment tax. If workers are your employees, you owe payroll taxes on their wages and taxable benefits. Accidentally misclassifying an employee as a contractor would lead to failure to withhold and remit payroll taxes. Which as we mentioned before, comes with its own set of fines and penalties.

If you are unsure about a worker’s status, you can request an IRS determination by filling out Form SS-8. If you’ve already made the mistake of misclassifying employees, the IRS offers relief through the Voluntary Classification Settlement Program. You can also contact your attorney or legal counsel for advice on how to proceed if you believe you’re noncompliant.

As a small business owner, you’ve got a lot on your plate. The right payroll software will eliminate the confusion and stress that often accompanies paying employees, filing forms and meeting all your tax requirements. Working with a provider that offers SHRM-certified HR professionals to give you a hand whenever you need it is helpful too. Heartland offers these services and more.

Ready to process payroll and tackle compliance with confidence?

For more information and to request a FREE demo, click the link below.

Get Started Today!

The post Are You Guilty of Committing These 5 Payroll Mistakes? appeared first on Mitchell1.