In 2020, the most successful PDR businesses use PDR software in their shops. It makes your back-office paperwork easier to manage. It also gives you complete visibility of your entire operation. That being said, there are both pros and cons to PDR software, and we’ve created a list of them, below.
PROS
- Fast and accurate data input: If your shop doesn’t have a management system in place, there’s a good possibility that you still rely on spreadsheets, paperwork, and filing cabinets. It can take hours to sift through information stored in those ways; however, with PDR software, you can upload and view all data in real-time from your desktop or mobile device.
- Databases full of competitive pricing: You can look up the conventional repair costs of certain repairs and vehicles. Access R&I labor times, parts, and a host of other vehicle-specific information.
- Real-time reporting: You can check all of your business’ information anywhere, anytime, in real-time. You have direct access to data and exact numbers.
- Employee Accountability: Every single aspect of your business is monitored, including the technicians, the work they are doing, and who is responsible for potential mistakes as well as who’s performing the work the most efficiently.
- Communication: Because all of your employees have access to PDR software on their desktop or mobile devices, it means all information that is put in can be accessed instantly by anyone with the appropriate rights– all with notifications that can inform you when the data is uploaded by another employee. All these interactions can be performed remotely on a computer or mobile device.
- Improves visibility and tackles constraints: With the click of a button, you can analyze all of your current operational statistics as well as inefficiencies. You can look at how your PDR business is currently performing and make strategic changes to improve your workflow.
- It has easy-to-use PDR and hail matrix estimation: It provides you with estimate calculations based on a massive database of information.
CONS
- It can be difficult to standardize its use by employees: PDR software is extremely helpful, but you will have to go through a transitional process where your technicians get used to putting the information into the app.
- The system only works well if the data is put in: It can take a long time to shift all of that information into an app.
- Steep learning curve for some people: If your employees haven’t used PDR software before, there can be a steep learning curve. However, better PDR software companies provide tutorials and have representatives immediately available to help with any questions you may have.
