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mikerisich

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  1. mikerisich
    In the 17 years since Bill Hill and his significant other, Leigh Anne Best, have owned Ohio-based Mighty Auto Pro, the couple has “seen it all” in terms of shop management systems and add-on software programs.
     
    “There are so many programs,” said Leigh Anne. “One program will do this and another will do that.”
     
    But, the couple had not found a software solution for everything at their 17-bay repair shop until recently: BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY’s™ suite of automotive software solutions.
     
    “Nothing has really been as all-encompassing as this,” she said. “They’ve got some great stuff going on.”
     
    Deemed by the business owners as a one-stop software shop for the automotive repair industry, Leigh Anne said Bill favors the VIN scanning functionality and digital multi-point inspections made possible with Mobile Manager Pro.
     
    “We have always done a 51-point safety inspection. Prior to this we hand wrote them,” she said, adding that digital inspections and VIN decoding saves 10 to 15 minutes per vehicle on average. “We toyed around with putting them on the computer for some time.”
     
    Now, instead of trying to figure out how to digitize repair orders and inspection reports, Mighty Auto Pro-which Ratchet and Wrench magazine named a 2013 All-Star-use tablets to carry out these functions using Bolt On’s popular signature software solution.
     
    In terms of expanding the shop’s 450-car-per-month bottom line, Leigh Anne said the application’s ability to take and text photos of customer vehicles has helped up repair orders by 30 percent. Prior to Mobile Manager Pro, she said the shop took its own photos. As part of a week-long test, she said some techs were tasked with taking photos of vehicle conditions to share with customers, while the rest were told not to take photos.
     
    “They were up about 30 percent, the people with pictures versus without,” she said. “Resoundingly the results were so much better with sales.”
     
    Besides boosting sales and saving time, Bill said he likes the fact that technicians are able to zero in on their customers.
     
    “Bill likes that the only thing they’re seeing is their vehicles, not the entire shop’s vehicles,” Leigh Anne said. “Instead of looking at the entire work in progress screen it’s individualized.”
     
    For Leigh Anne, text message customer reminders via Message Manager Pro, as well as the easy compilation of marketing data using the report-generating software wizard that is Report Pro “has been a huge thing.”
     
    For more information on BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY’s suite of automotive software solutions visit www.boltontechnology.com or call 610-400-1019.
  2. mikerisich
    Ratchet+Wrench featured our customer, 405 Auto, in its June 2015 issue.
     
    A BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY customer since January 2013, 405 Auto is a power user of our Mobile Manager Pro auto repair software and our Welcome Station kiosk. In the article, the magazine dubbed 405 Auto a ‘Shop of Tomorrow’ for its heavy use of technology, both for tablet-toting technicians working in the bays; and at the front counter where customers are encouraged to use our automotive kiosk to check in for service.
     
    Technology advancements have paid off for 405 Auto.
     
    In 2014, the shop generated $1.4 million in revenue and a more than $1,400 average repair order, according to the Ratchet+Wrench article.
     
    A cornerstone to improved customer confidence – and simplified shop processes – is the use of our tablet-powered customer check in kiosk. 405 Auto Owner Martin Kruszelnicki told us that our technology helped the shop become completely paper-free, in large part due to the interactive kiosk, which greets customers, asks them to update their contact and vehicle information and suggests both recommended and weather-related services.
     
    Instead of long lines of customers waiting for front desk staff to check them in, Kruszelnicki said customers now spend 30 seconds checking in for appointments and drop-in service calls.
     
    “Using Bolt On Technology we are able to save thousands of pages of paper and printing every year,” he said. “Customers love the paperless check-in system and our team enjoys technician tablets and electronic inspections and being more productive at the same time.”
     
    Going green also earned 405 Auto recognition in Santa Monica, California’s Sustainable Quality Awards.
     
    To simplify technicians’ workflow, 405 Auto uses our Mobile Manager Pro digital multi-point inspection tool. Techs use the tool to carry out inspections on every vehicle and to take vehicle condition photos. Inspection reports and photos are sent via email or text message to customers.
     
    A time-saving plus of all of our auto repair software solutions is that it transmits automatically into the shop management system, eliminating the need for re-entry of information.
     
    To read more about how 405 Auto became a ‘Shop of Tomorrow,’ click here to read the Ratchet+Wrench article.
  3. mikerisich
    Follow these tips to become more efficient this summer and every day


     

    Even the most hardworking technicians and service advisors can sometimes find it difficult to stay productive – particularly during the dog days of summer.
     
    These productivity boosting tips can help your team make the most of their work day, which means extra time to service more vehicles and increase profit margins.
     
    1. Keep cool
    As much as possible, try to maintain a comfortable temperature in the bays and in the shop. Try bringing in fans to circulate air if need be.
     
    2. Hydrate
    On days too hot for fans to make much of a difference, consider offering bottles of ice cold water or sports drinks. Not only will it help prevent dehydration, it also doubles as a morale booster.
     
    3. Take breaks
    It may seem counter-productive to offer technicians more breaks, but on super steamy days giving an extra few minutes for a break will help employees recharge their batteries.
     
    4. Show appreciation
    Acknowledge your team for a job well done. Letting your staff know you appreciate their hard work will go a long way in keeping them motivated and productive.
     
    5. Communicate effectively
    Communication cuts down on misunderstandings, duplicated efforts and in the end saves valuable time. An easy way to instantly let everyone in the shop know the status of customers’ vehicles is to share it on the team chat feature of Mobile Manager Pro. Doing so eliminates the need for techs to walk to the front of the shop to update the service advisor, which in turn increases efficiency.
     
    6. Embrace digital
    Implementing fully wireless multi-point inspections, for instance, dramatically cuts down on a technician’s time writing out recommended services through the software’s canned recommendations and canned jobs feature. Making technicians’ work life easier plays a major role in their ability and willingness to be productive.
     
    For more information on boosting efficiency and productivity, visit www.boltontechnology.com or call 610-400-1019.
  4. mikerisich
    A common thread among shop management systems (SMS) is that the software simplifies automotive repair shop processes.
    That’s pretty much where the similarities end. Some shops use their SMS for customer invoicing while others use it to order parts and track inventory. Still others use the software to carry out digital multi-point inspections and scan and decode vehicle identification numbers.
    The user options and software features are practically endless.
    To learn just how vast the array of choices can be in the spectrum of auto repair software, read our list of 13 things you may not have known by clicking here: http://boltontechnology.com/13-things-about-auto-repair-software-you-may-not-have-known/
  5. mikerisich
    Do you have a shop management system in place at your auto repair shop? Are you contemplating adding or updating one?
    If so, what do you want from your auto repair shop's software system? Not sure? We can help.
    When it comes to shop management systems, so many options are available it can be mind-boggling. Knowing what you need your auto repair software to do, what features you need and how it benefits your auto repair shop are just a few of the things that should be considered.
    To help better understand this process we have compiled a list of four questions to consider. To read more, click here.
  6. mikerisich
    All shops encounter customers who are hesitant to make vehicle repairs or keep up with scheduled maintenance beyond the lube, oil and filter service.
    For skeptics, phrases like “do I really need that,” or “why can’t this wait” tend to follow the service advisor’s suggestions.
    Ultimately, selling auto repair service – particularly to skeptics – is an art form. And just like any other profession, the seller, i.e. your service advisor, must have the best shop management system tools to succeed.
    To effectively respond to a customer's objections, your service advisor needs 4 things:
    1. Photo recommendations
    2. Clear recommendations
    3. Exceptional customer service
    4. Empowering customers to choose vehicle services
    To read more about how to sell services to a skeptic, read our blog: http://boltontechnology.com/how-to-sell-auto-repairs-to-a-skeptic/
  7. mikerisich
    Are you heading to the Vision Hi-Tech Training and Expo? What about AAPEX? Of course, there are dozens of trade shows in between.
    But, before you travel to any of them, you may want to consider some advance planning. The trade show floor can be intimidating. Hundreds, if not thousands of exhibitors, countless booths, an unending array of things to see, try out and learn more about.
    The experience can be overwhelming. But, with a bit of advance preparation, you and your auto repair shop staff can get the most out of trade shows in 2015 and for years to come.
    Click here to read more about our tips for trade show success.
  8. mikerisich

    5 Tips to Ace AAPEX

    By mikerisich,

    BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY will exhibit at the show, which is set for Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas.
     
    In a matter of weeks, thousands of exhibitors will fill 1 million square feet of the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada as part of the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX).
     
    Businesses, particularly automotive repair shops, have much to gain from the vast educational offerings, as well as the latest and most innovative products and business solutions on display Nov. 3-6.
     
    How can you see and do it all?
     
    Simply put: You can’t.
    But, with this handy checklist of tips, you can discover the products, services and other offerings that are most important to your shop.
     
    1. Do your homework
    Use the weeks leading up to AAPEX to familiarize yourself with the various sessions available and get a jumpstart on planning your days.
     
    2. Define your objective
    Think about why you registered for AAPEX. Try to pinpoint the top goals you would like to achieve and consider the service providers and/or products that could help you attain success.
     
    3. Research exhibitors who can make your goals reality
    Say, for instance, you’d like your repair shop to increase its average repair order, automate day-to-day functions and improve customer confidence. Besides BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY, you may want to research which other shop management system providers could help you reach your goals. To get started, click here to search the AAPEX Show Website by brand, by product, or by exhibitor. You can view a company’s product information, contact methods, show location and more.
     
    4. Review the lay of the AAPEX land
    Once you have an idea of which educational sessions you would like to attend and which exhibitors you would like to visit, review the floor plan.
     
    5. Plot out your AAPEX Show plan
    While viewing the floor plan, attendees can look up exhibitors they would like to visit, see their location and booth number on the map, as well as their booth size. The floor plan helps make it easier to visualize where you want to throughout the course of the show.
     
    Stay tuned for more helpful AAPEX Show tips and hints. If you’re going to AAPEX Show 2014, we’d love to meet you! Please be sure to stop by booth #2983 to meet the BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY team, learn more about our mobile technology and our automotive software solutions, Mobile Manager Pro and Welcome Station. For more information, visit www.boltontechnology.com, or call 610-400-1019.
  9. mikerisich
    With thousands of exhibitors and countless products, it’s important to know which questions to ask AAPEX Show exhibitors.






    In my last blog, I suggested that shops consider researching the exhibitors whose products or services align most closely to the shop’s main goals and map out a plan to make the most of the limited time available.
     
    Now that you’ve decided which booths you will be visiting in Las Vegas Nov. 3-6, it’s time to think about what questions you might want to ask exhibitors.
    With so many booths, education sessions, networking events and so little time, you will want each interaction to count. This handy guide will help you stay focused.
     
    1. Find the correlation
    You have determined that exhibitors are worth your time. Be sure to ask questions that allow the exhibitor to explain how their products or services could help your business.
     
    2. Steer clear of questions with yes or no answers
    Vague questions, such as “does your product integrate with my shop management system” may yield a response of “yes.” In reality, that may not be true.
     
    3. Ask for the “how” behind the exhibitor’s offerings
    Instead of asking a question that could be open to various interpretations, try rewording the question to ask how the system integrates, for instance. The answer will likely give you more insight and a better sense of whether the product is truly a match for your shop’s goals.
     
    4. Show, don’t tell
    Even better than the “how” of the product or service is seeing it in action. See for yourself the product’s attributes, or shortcomings, by asking for a demonstration.
     
    5. Ask the same questions
    The only way to truly compare apples to apples when considering similar products offered by competing exhibitors is to ask the same questions of each exhibitor.
     
    6. Don’t be afraid to follow up
    You asked all of the questions on your checklist. But, something the exhibitor said raised another question, or caused confusion. While it’s fresh in your mind – and while the exhibitor is in front of you – ask for clarification.
     
    7. Write it down
    Perhaps just as important as asking the right question is remembering the answers. The likelihood of remembering one company or product’s attributes over another may be difficult that night in your hotel room and even more so after AAPEX is over. Jot down notes highlighting things that matter to you and your business. A few notes should be enough to jog your memory after the fact.
     
    Stay tuned for more helpful AAPEX Show tips and hints. If you’re going to AAPEX Show 2014, we’d love to meet you! Please be sure to stop by booth #2983 to meet the BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY team, learn more about our mobile technology and our automotive software solutions, Mobile Manager Pro and Welcome Station. For more information, visit www.boltontechnology.com, or call 610-400-1019.
  10. mikerisich
    Overwhelmingly, auto repair shops are removing the guesswork from handwritten vehicle inspections, repair orders and service recommendations through the use of automotive software designed to simplify processes, save time and boost productivity.
    Below are seven fool-proof tips for using vehicle maintenance software to improve overall shop operations.
     
    1. Scan VINs
    Jotting down a vehicle identification number (VIN) is easy, right?
    Sure. Getting each and every letter and number correct­ – and making sure it’s readable – is something entirely different. Scanning a VIN eliminates the need to decipher messy handwriting, lessens the likelihood of mistakes and saves precious time.
     
    2. Quickly review pending service recommendations
    Our research has shown that nearly 75 percent of vehicles being serviced are having an oil change performed. More than likely, additional services or regular maintenance is also needed.
    Shop management software alerts service advisers and techs to all pending services when a customer arrives. This technology maintains a vehicle service history and offers suggestions that are either pending since a past appointment or are due for regular maintenance.
     
    3. Start repair orders and estimates on a tablet or mobile device
    With wireless automotive software solutions, techs can meet customers at their vehicle and begin the digital inspection, repair order, or estimate process using a handheld device. Best of all, the process can conclude the same way it began – with a tablet or mobile device.
     
    4. Build orders, create digital multi-point inspections with press of a buttonWireless software technology eliminates hard-to-read handwriting and speeds up the multi-point inspection and repair order process, allowing for more time to service additional vehicles. Without hiring more staff or adjusting work schedules, productivity, and, in turn profits, can be increased simply by incorporating innovative automotive software solutions.
     
    5. Add photographs to each vehicle service recommendation
    What better way to prove that a customer needs new brakes then to show it? Techs do this every day by taking multiple photos of vehicle conditions, underlining the need for recommended services.
    Without the benefit of pictures, customers all too often believe that shops exaggerate the severity of service suggestions strictly to make more money. Showing a customer pictures can increase repair order revenue from 15 percent to 90 percent on average. It’s much harder to refuse brake work after seeing the extent of the issue.
     
    6. Text or email customers a vehicle diagnosis with images
    Wireless automotive software with built-in text and email functionality enables techs to seamlessly send estimates, multi-point inspections, photos and more directly to customers. This speeds up customer approval times from the national average of one hour and 17 minutes to 37 minutes.
     
    7.Use mobile technology that’s fully integrated with your shop management system
    Boosting productivity is possible simply by using wireless automotive software that automatically syncs data compiled from a handheld device into the shop management system effortlessly. This eliminates the need for double entries as is commonly the case with paper repair orders and handwritten inspection reports.
     
    For more information on BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY's Mobile Manager Pro software solution, visit www.boltontechnology.com, or call 610-400-1019.
  11. mikerisich
    Facebook and Google are constantly changing its algorithms making it more difficult for auto repair shops to gain traction online. Direct mail can be expensive and traditional advertising nets little returns.
     
    So, what’s a shop owner to do?
     
    Use your shop’s customer invoice to market your business.
     
    Compared to other ways of promoting your business, creating a unique, customized invoice is by far the least expensive, quickest and easiest method of sharing information about your repair shop.
     
    Tips for getting started on invoice customization
    Including shop-specific information on your invoices is an effective way to not only spruce up the look of your bill, but to give your customers – especially first-time customers – a good impression of your business.
     
    Chris Lapierre of Attleboro, Massachusetts-based Lapierre’s Auto Repair uses the Report Pro auto repair software solution to incorporate his shop’s logo, as well as Facebook and Twitter links.
     
    “It makes it a little bit more personal,” he said.
     
    1.Choose a theme
    Report Pro offers 10 different invoice choices. Themes can be tailored to best suit your needs and range from simple to more advanced options. By-the-job invoicing is popular in instances where shops want to give a breakdown on multiple jobs.
     
    2.Add your logo
    After your business name, Website, address and phone number, your logo is perhaps the most important element of any invoice. It goes hand-in-hand with your shop’s name as one of the main ways for customers to identify your business.
     
    3.Don’t forget color
    Incorporating the color(s) used on your logo, signs and other related marketing materials helps to brand your business. Why go for black and white invoices when you can create more eye-catching colorful creations?
     
    4.Get social!
    Building your Facebook and Twitter followers just got easier with the inclusion of icons and/or links on your invoices. By putting this information at your customers’ fingertips it will be easier for them to find your shop online and follow your pages.
     
    5.Ask for reviews
    Including links to review sites like SureCritic makes it easy for your customers to quickly and easily review your business. Reviews are important as most new customers will scour review sites and read customer reviews before choosing a business.
     
    6.Strengthen your brand with affiliates
    Is your shop affiliated with a well-known auto parts retailer or auto repair leader? Including their logos on your invoice will help to build credibility with your customers, proving that your shop is reputable, in part, because of its partners.
     
    7.Use coupons to build repeat service
    Report Pro enables shops to include invoice coupons or provide package pricing for recommended services. Whether your shop chooses to discount the service is entirely up to you, but the appearance of a coupon gives customers the sense that they’re getting a deal, which dramatically increases the chances of repeat business.
     
    Customizing your invoices – the sky’s the limit!
    In reality, these tips are just skimming the surface. Report Pro provides more than 100 options for customization. To learn more about this auto repair software tool click here: Report Pro or call 610-400-1019.
  12. mikerisich
    At Bud Wildman’s Germantown, Md., shop, Precision Auto and Tire Center, digital multi-point inspections have replaced the previous paper and pencil versions. The paperless vehicle inspections are much more thorough, consisting of 10 vehicle condition photos, an in-depth color-coded report and a $525 average repair order.
     
    “Would you rather slip through 20 cars and sell an ARO of $150 or go through five cars and sell an ARO of $600 each?” Wildman asked. “It takes more time to present the report when it’s done right.”
     
    Since his shop began using BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY’s Mobile Manager Pro auto repair software in November 2014, Wildman, whose shop won the Automotive Training Institute’s Top Shop Award in 2014, said his average repair order has increased from roughly $380 to $510 with mobile technology. For new customers, that amount is oftentimes much higher, he said.
     
    The shop, which generated $1.6 million last year, has an average car count of 72 to 80 per week. Wildman says he is currently tracking a 12% increase in gross sales this year and his average repair order continues to climb.
     
    Three months after he began using the software, Wildman said a first-time customer authorized an $850 repair ticket minutes after reviewing the vehicle condition photos and accompanying report that the shop sent to her via text message.
     
    “Her response was ‘how much to turn the bar green?’ ” Wildman said, referring to the color-coded Vehicle Health Rating. “She realized from the picture and the report that those items needed to be addressed.”
     
    In all, “99.9 percent” of the shop’s customers receive inspections and photos by text message, with a few requesting email. Regardless of how the information is sent to customers, Wildman said “it instantly creates a trust factor,” particularly with new customers.
     
    “The most powerful impact to the customer is being able to show them their car and what needs to be replaced and repaired,” Wildman said. “When service advisers send a report that’s well done, the questions are reduced and the trust becomes very strong. The customer can recognize what we’ve done for them. The service advisors, as they sell the jobs, spend more time preparing the presentation, but they spend less time talking to the customer.”
     
    Prior to Mobile Manager, Wildman said inspections were done on paper and the shop had no effective way to communicate the urgency of repairs. Plus, Wildman said technicians are notorious for sloppy, unreadable handwriting – which is no longer an issue with the fully digital software.
     
    The tablet-powered auto repair software features VIN scanning and license plate decoding, which automatically populates fields with vehicle year, make model and more. Data input through the tablet automatically transmits into the shop management system without any additional effort.
     
    For more information, click here: Mobile Manager Pro.
  13. mikerisich
    What’s the one daily task that simplifies your shop life, increases upselling opportunities and dramatically boosts profits?
     
    For a growing number of shops, the most important task involves snapping customer vehicle condition photos and sharing them, along with digital multi-point inspections and repair orders, with customers.
     
    The sentiment that a picture is worth a thousand words has perhaps never been truer than for a customer literally staring down evidence of needed, and most times unexpected, vehicle repairs.
     
    Since spring, shops using Bolt On Technology’s Mobile Manager Pro automotive software suite have taken and shared 100,000 photos with their customers. On average, 7,500 photos are captured every week, which is a testament to the effectiveness of the “seeing is believing” notion.
     
    Now, instead of trying to explain why a customer may need to buy new tires, or brake pads, or replace a corroded battery, technicians, with the click of a handheld mobile device, can show them.
     
    In all, our data shows that nearly 90 percent of our Mobile Manager Pro users actively put into service the software’s photo-taking capabilities. The number of regular photo-takers continues to grow, as does the bottom lines for shops that have made this feature a part of their daily routine.
     
    Along with the photo capture feature, shops are also benefitting from VIN scanning (88 percent usage rate) and digital inspections (84 percent usage rate). The new recommendations capability, which goes hand-in-hand with image capture, continues to increase in popularity as more than 70 percent of shops regularly use it to make new repair recommendations as part of the vehicle inspection process.
     
    An add-on automotive software solution that automatically integrates with leading shop management systems, Mobile Manager Pro enables technicians to ditch scrawled handwriting in favor of digital, easy-to-complete forms, including customizable multi-point vehicle inspections, VIN and license plate scanning/decoding and more.
     
    Since its release in the fall of 2013, Mobile Manager Pro has been proven to increase efficiency and productivity in the bays. But, for many shop owners and technicians, the real proof of the application’s usefulness is in its ability to take photos.
     
    Our research has shown that the uptick in photo-taking is paying off. Techs that take three or more photos, or make three or more service recommendations have seen repair orders increase by $60 to $85. In all, shops are more than doubling their repair order profits simply by showing, not telling.
     
    How does your shop communicate customer service recommendations?
     
    To learn more about Mobile Manager Pro and the power of using photos to drive higher sales, call Bolt On Technology at 610-400-1019.
  14. mikerisich
    Say good-bye to tedious customer check-ins with our latest automotive software solution, Welcome Station™, the first-ever self-check kiosk designed specifically for the automotive repair industry. With our tablet-powered tool, your shop can join airports, grocery and convenience stores, as well as restaurant chains in simplifying the customer experience.
    Our touch screen kiosk delivers faster business results, better accuracy and increased up-selling and profit generation opportunities with each customer check-in.
     
    This easy-to-use self-check system frees up service advisors and enables both new and returning customers to quickly and electronically notify shop staff of their arrival, select the vehicle and which services they’d like to have performed and whether they are dropping off, or will be waiting.
     
    Customers can also:
     
    · Update all contact and vehicle information
    · Add new vehicles
    · Receive geo-location weather alerts and related service suggestions
    · Add pending service recommendations
    · Add other services/canned jobs
     
    Increase Shop Efficiency
    With our Welcome Station™ kiosk, shops can cut the glut of long lines during the morning and afternoon rushes, all while saving precious minutes per customer and aligning the shop for more revenue-generating business.
    With a few taps, customers can check themselves in and speed up the shop’s daily process. Based on a modest 2 minutes-per-customer savings, shops with an average daily car count of 15 could save 2.5 hours per week – just in customer check-in time!
     
    Those extra hours are possible without adding staff, or increasing workloads. In fact, our kiosk will make your front staff’s work life easier.
     
    Boost Up-selling Opportunities
    Upon check-in, a customer is reminded of, and has the ability to select past pending service recommendations and even new services/canned jobs.
     
    The addition of area-specific weather alerts further simplify the up-selling process by suggesting services based on the vehicle care needed to maintain safety in different climates.
     
    The alerts suggest services specific to the current weather and seasons:
    · It’s raining – Would you like us to check your wipers?
    · It’s been over 90 degrees lately – Would you like us to check your air-conditioning?
    · It’s been less than 32 degrees lately – Would you like us to check your battery?
    · Winter is coming soon. Would you like us check your tires?
    · As well as other customizable service suggestions
     
    Secured Identity Protection
    To help prevent identity theft, customers are required to enter the phone number attached to the account and select their name.
     
    If the phone number and/or name are not unique to the account being accessed, Welcome Station™ will not continue, and the customer will need to see the service advisor.
     
    Shop Management System Integration
    Like all of BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY’s™ automotive solutions, Welcome Station™ is fully integrated into your shop management system. Our automotive software solutions offer real-time two-way communication without the need to re-enter information.
     
    For more information, or for a live demonstration, call us at 610-400-1019.
  15. mikerisich
    BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY™ is committed to passing the ‘V’ – are you?
     
    The greater Philadelphia area developer of more than a dozen wireless solutions to simplify automotive repair shop operations is supporting the V Foundation.
     
    Spurred by support from Bolt on Technology Director of National Sales and Corporate Sponsorships Frank Dragoni, a local youth baseball coach, the company is backing the altruistic efforts of the 21-year-old foundation.
     
    Dragoni, who’s been fundraising for the V Foundation for the last four years, is organizing the Jimmy V Home Run Derby for high school students on July 13 at the Trenton Thunder stadium in Trenton, N.J. Dragoni hopes to raise $50,000 through the fundraiser, which will feature several former Major League Baseball greats, including Jeff Manto, who played for the Colorado Rockies and most recently was the third base coach for the White Sox. David Amaro, a 24th round Chicago Cubs draft pick in the 1984 amateur draft, will also be on hand, Dragoni said.
     
    Get involved!
    Dragoni’s V Foundation fundraising work is through the Philly Friends of V, a regional branch of the nationwide V Foundation. Bolt On Technology is donating Philadelphia Phillies tickets to the silent auction, which will feature other sports-related memorabilia. The greater Philadelphia area company is asking its supporters to get involved by visiting the V Foundation Web site and creating a local event, making a tax-deductible donation, or championing Dragoni’s efforts. Check out this video to learn more about the Home Run Derby.
     
    About the V Foundation
    The V Foundation was established in 1993 by Jim Valvano, who, a few months after its establishment, succumbed to his battle with cancer. Valvano had worked as an ABC/ESPN basketball commentator and analyst following a successful 15-year career as a college basketball coach in which he took his team to several NCAA appearances. The Foundation continues in his name with contributions funding cancer research and related programs.
  16. mikerisich
    When he’s not helping auto repair shops learn tasks to automate their business and become more efficient, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY™ Director of National Sales and Corporate Sponsorships Frank Dragoni, of Yardley, eats, breathes and sleeps baseball.
     
    A Pennsbury Athletic Association baseball coach, Dragoni has been gearing up for the Philadelphia Friends of the V Foundation’s annual Jimmy V Home Run Derby, set for June 28 at Trenton Thunder Arm and Hammer Park following the Thunder’s 1 p.m. game.
     
    The event pits high school baseball players from Pennsylvania against New Jersey players.
     
    “The states kind of battle each other,” Dragoni said, adding that the competition is stiff. “The kids have to be able to hit the ball out of a major league stadium.”
     
    The V Foundation was founded by Jimmy Valvano several months before losing his battle with cancer. Valvano had worked as an ABC/ESPN basketball commentator and analyst following a successful 15-year career as a college basketball coach in which he took his team to several NCAA appearances.
     
    The Philadelphia branch of the organization gives 100 percent of the proceeds back to the organization, Dragoni said.
     
    “It’s a great cause,” Dragoni said. “It’s rewarding to feel like we’re making a difference.”
     
    To learn more
    Dragoni’s V Foundation fundraising work is through the Philly Friends of V, a regional branch of the nationwide V Foundation. Check out this video to learn more about the Home Run Derby. Cost is $11. For more information or to buy tickets, click here.
     
    About the V Foundation
    The V Foundation was established in 1993 by Jim Valvano, who, a few months after its establishment, succumbed to his battle with cancer. Valvano had worked as an ABC/ESPN basketball commentator and analyst following a successful 15-year career as a college basketball coach in which he took his team to several NCAA appearances. The Foundation continues in his name with contributions funding cancer research and related programs.
     
    To learn more about Bolt On Technology, visit www.boltontechnology.com,see our mobile innovations on YouTube, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.
  17. mikerisich
    With summer still very much in force, fall is already shaping up to be busy as our team prepares to meet you - and your repair shop staff - at five tradeshows in the coming weeks and months.
    Of those, four shows will be happening within the span of eight days.
    Here’s an overview of where we will be and what you can expect. Be on the lookout for more detailed information as events get closer:
     
    1. From Sept. 24 through Sept. 26, Frank Dragoni, our Director of National Sales and Corporate Partnerships will deliver the keynote address at the First Annual Platte River Rendezvous in North Platte, Nebraska. This event is for Mitchell 1 Shop Manager SE customers only. National Sales Manager Mike Guerriero will join Frank at this tradeshow, which also features sessions on boosting revenues and efficiencies.
     
    2. Frank and BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY CEO Mike Risich will then head to the National PRONTO Fall Shareholders Conference from Sept. 29 through Oct. 1 in Chicago, Illinois.
     
    3. Immediately from there, Frank and Mike Risich will join our partner Mitchell 1 at the Shop Management Workshop from Oct. 1 through Oct. 3 in Orlando, Florida. The training is designed for M 1 shop management users who want to learn more advanced functions, shortcuts and new features. The BOLT ON team will be on hand to demonstrate our products, show the full integration with Mitchell 1 systems and answer any questions.
     
    4. As the Mitchell 1 workshop wraps up, we will be heading to the Automotive Service Association of Pennsylvania’s annual Super Saturday tradeshow on Oct. 3 near our greater Philadelphia company headquarters.
     
    5. The grand finale of our fall travels is the AAPEX Show, held Nov. 2 through Nov. 5 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Our team will be on hand supporting our partners in multiple booths during the massive tradeshow, which hosts thousands of exhibitors and attendees each year.
     
    Stay tuned for more information on our fall tradeshow schedule. Visit www.boltontechnology.com to stay up-to-date.
  18. mikerisich
    Following the massive recall of more than 6 million Firestone tires in 2000, federal law mandated that tire retailers take steps to notify customers of a tire recall.
     
    Until recently, that meant bookmarking each tire manufacturer’s Web site, navigating there and inputting the customer and tire information, according to Tom Gebbie of Lansdale, Pa.-based Gebbie’s AutoCare.
     
    A self-described “good typer,” Gebbie, who sells 1,000 to 1,200 tires a year, said he was able to carry out the registrations in about a minute.
     
    But, with help from a feature built into his shop management system’s add-on software, Gebbie said he’s been able to cut that time down to under half a minute.
     
    Gebbie began using the time-saving tire registration feature on Bolt On Technology’s Report Pro and with the push of a button, fields auto-populate, easing the entry of information and keeping him from having to remember which Web sites he needed to visit as part of the registration process.
     
    “It’s been very handy,” Gebbie said. “This is definitely an improvement.”
     
    The Firestone recall of 2000 was the only instance to date that Gebbie said impacted his customers. Back then customers were given postcards to register their new tires.
     
    But, as Gebbie found out, “not a single one of those had registered their tires,” meaning he had to call the 25 customers who had purchased tires that had been recalled.
     
    At Elsy Auto Repair in Newark, N.J., John Slater said the Report Pro tire registration function “makes it a thousand times easier.”
     
    Slater said the “one click deal” is much easier than the manual entry and switching back and forth between two open programs.
     
    “If the software takes 10 seconds, manually it’s going to take five minutes,” Slater said of the online tire registration process. “It’s like a night and day difference.”
     
  19. mikerisich
    On Jan. 15, Mike Risich, the founder and Chief Technology Officer of BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY, an add-on automotive software solutions development company, will offer an interactive mobile technology discussion and demonstration.
     
    Risich will offer insight on BOLT ON’s signature software solution, Mobile Manager Pro, during the Automotive Service Association of Pennsylvania’s Chapter 29 Montgomery/Philadelphia monthly meeting.
     
    For more information on the demonstration, or to register, click here: http://boltontechnology.com/bolt-on-technology-founder-to-demonstrate-mobile-technology/
  20. mikerisich
    BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY has been nominated for the Jobs Now Best Places to Work 2015 contest.
     
    The Greater Philadelphia area company employs more than a dozen workers at its development center in Bucks County, a suburb of Philadelphia.
     
    “I enjoy the casual, team-oriented environment,” said Frank Dragoni, the company’s director of national sales and corporate partnerships. “We all work together to brainstorm the company’s future successes. Everyone here knows they are integral to the company’s growth.”
     
    BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY was founded in 2008 after Chief Technology Officer Mike Risich, a Microsoft developer, set out to create software solutions to automate routine processes at the nation’s independent auto repair shops. Two years after that, Risich hired his first employee.
     
    Since its founding, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY has developed more than a dozen auto shop management add-on software solutions that thousands of auto repair shops throughout the U.S., Canada and South America use every day to save time, boost efficiency and simplify processes.
     
    Click here to read more about the Best Places to Work 2015 award nomination.
  21. mikerisich
    The greater Philadelphia area automotive software solutions developer ranked #36






    Not only has BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY remained at the forefront developing innovative add-on solutions powering the nation’s independent auto repair shops’ ability to automate daily operations, increase efficiency and boost profits, the Downingtown, Pa.-based company has ranked as one of the 2014 fastest-growing, privately-held businesses in the Philadelphia region by the Philadelphia 100®, the Wharton Small Business Development Center, the Entrepreneurs' Forum of Greater Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Business Journal.
     
    The Philadelphia 100 rankings are based on companies’ percentage of growth over the last three years, ending in 2013. During that time frame, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY grew by 187 percent and ranked number 36 of 100, according to official Philadelphia 100 rankings released Thursday night.
     
     
    In addition to founder and CEO Mike Risich, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY employed two workers just two years ago and has since grown to employ more than a dozen. The company’s software applications serve thousands of independent auto repair shops in the U.S., Canada and Guam. BOLT ON, which operates a software development center in Bucks County, is poised for continued expansion both in its workforce, as well as its more than a dozen software applications, according to Risich.
     
    “This achievement is just the next step in taking our company to another level,” Risich said. “I know our team embraces change and has the drive and motivation to continue to better our customers’ businesses.”
     
    About BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY™
    Founded in 2008, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY was created by entrepreneur Michael Risich, whose vision of digitizing the automotive repair industry has continued to define the company. BOLT ON stays at the forefront of innovation, continuing to revolutionize mobile applications that save auto shops time, money and the need to write out lengthy estimates or vehicle diagnoses. Bolt On Technology has grown to be one of the leading shop management software providers. The company has partnered with some of the largest companies in the business, including Mitchell1, ATI (Automotive Training Institute) and CARFAX.
    To learn more about Bolt On Technology, visit BoltOnTechnology.com, see our mobile innovations on YouTube, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.
     
    About the Philadelphia 100 Program:
    The Philadelphia 100 was founded in 1988 by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum of Greater Philadelphia, Philadelphia Business Journal, and Wharton Small Business Development Center to publicly identify, recognize, and promote successful companies in the Greater Philadelphia region. Previous participants have told us that participating in the Philadelphia 100 helped them attract new employees, obtain new customers, and raise capital. Past honorees include NovaCare, Forman Mills, ATX, Mothers Work, Diamond Couriers, West Coast Video, Spectacor, Urban Outfitters, and Kremer Laser Eye Center
  22. mikerisich
    In an effort to provide a better overall customer experience, BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY has decided to suspend its weekly live training sessions in favor of one-on-one training.
     
    Offering individualized training allows auto repair shops to tailor sessions to focus on the product features of highest importance. In addition, this new one-on-one format provides shops with as much time as necessary to ask questions, see live demonstrations of their new auto repair software solutions at work and troubleshoot any problems that they may be experiencing.
     
    Our Support Technician Warner Saxton will be conducting individual training sessions following software installation. Beyond that, customers can schedule training for as many of our products and as frequently as they like.
     
    Shops can also arrange one-on-one refresher courses for any of our software solutions to learn about best practices for using our software tips that other shops have found to be successful and more.
     
    Training is available for all of our products: Pro Pack (which includes Lube Sticker Pro, Message Manager and Report Pro); Mobile Manager Pro, Welcome Station and Pro Call.
    To learn more about our training or to schedule your training, call us at 610-400-1019 or email [email protected].
  23. mikerisich
    Whether you purchased BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY's automotive software solutions today, last month or a year ago, we want to make sure your shop is getting the most for its money! For some that may mean a product refresher course, while others may need more comprehensive training.
    Either way, we're offering live training sessions specifically designed to fit your shop’s needs.
    Beginning this week, we will again be conducting live training for both beginners, as well as more experienced users. By giving us 30 or 45 minutes of your time, you’ll gain a better understanding of the product’s features, capabilities and the most efficient ways to seamlessly incorporate auto repair best practices into your shop’s daily routine.
    We will be offering both 101 and 201 sessions on a weekly basis for each of the following products: Lube Sticker Pro, Message Manager, Report Pro and Mobile Manager Pro. To read more or to register for a training session, click here.
  24. mikerisich
    Bolt On Technology, LLC has been selected for the 2014 Best of Downingtown Award in the Software Company category by the Downingtown Award Program.
     
    Each year, the Downingtown Award Program identifies companies that it determines have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. According to the Downingtown Award Program, winners are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
     
    Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2014 Downingtown Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally and data provided by third parties, according to the Downingtown Award Program.
    The automotive software solutions provider, which is headquartered in Downingtown and operates a development center in Bucks County, Pa., is experiencing a more than 200 percent year-over-year growth. Bolt On Technology was recently named by the Philadelphia 100 as one of the top 100 fastest-growing, privately held entrepreneurial companies in the greater Philadelphia region.
     
    Mike Risich, the company’s founder and CEO, attributes Bolt On Technology’s recent accolades to the deployment of an impressive suite of software add-on solutions aimed at automating day-to-day routines and saving a cross-section of the nation’s 275,000 independent automotive repair shops time and money.
     
    “We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of software innovation as it pertains to the auto repair world,” Risich said. “We strive to systematize and revolutionize the way shops conduct business. In short, we provide our customers with the efficiency-building tools they can’t live without.”
     
    Earlier this year, Bolt On Technology released a dramatically updated version of its signature software tool, Mobile Manager Pro. The fully wireless module enables repair shops to take and text vehicle condition photos to customers; conduct paper-less digital multi-point inspections; and scan and decode vehicle identification numbers and license plates among other functions.
     
    The inclusion of photos illustrating needed repairs is helping to build customer confidence, as evidenced in quicker response times – from a national average of one hour and 17 minutes with traditional customer phone calls to a mere 37 minutes via text message communication.
     
    Following on the heels of the Mobile Manager Pro update was Bolt On Technology’s release of Welcome Station, which the company believes is the auto repair industry’s first-ever customer check-in kiosk. Similar to touch screen stations at airports, grocery and convenience stores, the tablet-powered software allows repair shop customers to quickly check in, update their information, add new vehicles and select repair services.
     
    For more information about Bolt On Technology visit www.boltontechnology.com, or call 610-400-1019.
  25. mikerisich
    Key members of the BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY team will travel to Huntersville, N.C. on Dec. 9-10 to participate in the American Tire Distributors’ national dealer council meeting.
     
    During a working lunch with more than a dozen ATD representatives, the Bolt On team will present a full demonstration of Mobile Manager Pro, the company’s leading suite of automotive software solutions. Mobile Manager Pro, which is used in hundreds of repair shops and tire service centers in the U.S., Canada, South America and Guam, allows shops to meet customers at their vehicles, tablet in hand, to begin a digital multi-point inspection. The paper-free tool features license plate scanning and decoding, automatic transmission of data to the shop management system, advance scheduling of routine services, text messaging of inspection reports and photos with customers, the ability to customize invoices with 100 plus options and more.
     
    Bolt On’s goal of the meeting is to become an ATD-approved vendor for the more than 600 auto repair and tire service centers under the ATD umbrella, according to Frank Dragoni, Bolt On’s Director of National Sales & Corporate Partnerships. The December meeting follows a discussion that Dragoni and Bolt On’s Chief Technology Officer and founder Mike Risich had with ATD representatives in Pittsburgh during the northeast dealer council meeting in October.
     
    The national Tire Pros chain is some of the service centers under the ATD umbrella. The highly coveted approved vendor status would mean that ATD is certifying Bolt On as a viable company to consider for automotive software solution add-ons, Dragoni said.
     
    The nation’s premier tire distributor, ATD, which was founded in 1935, operates 113 distributions centers across the U.S., 27 distribution centers across Canada and has approximately 80,000 customers in the U.S. and Canada, according to the company’s Website.
     
    For more information about BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY, visitwww.boltontechnology.com, or call 610-400-1019.

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