Three must-have features to look for in heavy-truck repair software
If you’re shopping for heavy truck repair software, there are many factors to consider, but let’s make sure you get the basics right.
A little research should precede every big purchase. But it’s tough to discern value with so many options on the market unless you know what to look for.
Here are three features you should look out for when choosing a truck repair shop software.
1. A support team who understands your challenges and knows your business.
Running a truck repair shop comes with a unique set of challenges. Your software program should help you solve problems and capitalize on the opportunities that come with business growth.
And whatever growth means to you—whether it’s more customers or better business processes—you’ll benefit from guidance early on, especially if you’re just learning how the software works.
Many software companies rely on call centers and generic scripts for customer support. And the 24/7 support may seem nice at first. But the world’s most accessible support team won’t do you any good if they don’t understand your business.
Your truck repair shop software should be backed by a team of experts who’ve worked in the industry. No one can help you better than someone who knows what a busy day on the shop floor looks like.
Be sure to ask a salesperson about the experience level of those on the support team—and pay attention if you get a vague answer. That’s a red flag.
2. A comprehensive training program
Does this sound familiar? You spring for new software, open up the program for the first time… and freeze because you have no idea how to use it.
So much for making life easier, right?
Part of the problem is you don’t know what you don’t need to know. In other words, you may not need to use every feature right away. A comprehensive training program takes into account what you need to know as you need to know it.
Sadly, companies often want to train you quickly and merely cover the material without enough context for your individual needs.
Or, software providers can be in a hurry to get you onboarded and then leave you high and dry once it’s time to get started.
You can protect yourself from frustration by asking about training programs before paying up. A good software provider will be proud to tell you about their valuable, thoughtfully-designed training program and should be able to tell you exactly what to expect from the training process.
If you get wishy-washy answers or generic demos, be skeptical. These are signs that training and development may not be high priorities.
3. Modular software allows you to add additional capability as needed.
Many business software programs are only available in one out-of-the-box configuration. This may seem convenient—until you realize you’re paying for a bunch of features you don’t need or use.
For example, forking over a monthly fee for a vehicle sales module is pointless if you aren’t selling vehicles.
Because every truck repair shop is unique, every shop will need a different set of software features. Choose a provider who will let you customize your software package to suit your shop.
Scalable software is your best bet since you can choose only what you need and forego the rest. Then, as the business grows and the need for enhanced processes arises, you simply choose a relevant module.
Once you have the basic package, adding fleet maintenance or enhanced inventory management features can be seamless.
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PLUSS is the best heavy-duty truck repair shop software on the market. We know the business. We hire our support staff straight out of the shop, so they understand the nuances behind your questions and problems.
We provide comprehensive training to every new customer—and unlimited support—so you can use your software with confidence.
With our modular configuration, you choose which features you need and skip paying for anything unnecessary.
Get in touch with one of our team members today to discuss how PLUSS can help you do business better.