What is better about running an EPC via the Internet?
There are practical, strategic and cost benefits to change to an internet EPC from disc or server operation.
Practical: There are no discs to install, no access dongles to plug-in or keep track of, and there are no long delays between the time the automaker releases new information and the time it is live on your screen. There is no dedicated server to buy, maintain or keep loaded with updates. Microcat LIVE is whole and complete, ready to run, as soon as you switch on your computer and browser.
Strategic: Once you untether the EPC from a fixed position, you open a new world of selling and service possibilities. A parts person can start working on an order at the front counter, then move to the computer in the warehouse to add to it, and then finalise it in the wholesale phone room if they want to. How about putting EPC licences in the service or repair departments so they can do their own parts work? You could put the EPC into your delivery trucks, or set up parts department kiosks at shopping malls, or handle repair quotes from a handheld tablet computer? The potential is only limited by your sales imagination.
Cost: Server-based solutions are incredibly expensive to purchase, maintain and update. Traditional DVD-based EPCs are much cheaper solutions, but still require staff time to install the discs each month. Online EPC eliminates both these out-of-pocket and labour costs for your department. Because it’s online, Microcat LIVE also supports dealerships to instantly increase their subscriptions during their high selling seasons and return them to normal in the low season. That way you only pay for what you need, when you need it.
How does Microcat LIVE stack up against the competition?
Infomedia has been making Microcat® for more than 21 years. The same company, under the same management, all that time. With such continuity comes retained know-how and values that are reflected in our products and business policies. We believe Microcat LIVE is the best-in-class performer. Its design is in response to suggestions from thousands of dealers around the world. It provides four fundamental breakthroughs to benefit dealers:
- First, it frees the EPC from a fixed position – it can now operate anywhere, on anything, at any time.
- Second, in one stroke, it provides ‘instant-on’ up-to-the-minute data, eliminating all computer update chores for staff.
- Third, its advanced search and display features build upon decades of innovative functionality already in the Microcat product model.
- Finally, the Microcat LIVE business model is honest and transparent. There is no bundled hardware, no expensive options. Microcat LIVE must perform and evolve to keep up with the changing needs of dealerships. We are confident in our ability to do that, thus confident in this approach to business, as we have been for 21 years. In terms of specific functionality, visit the features section of the Microcat LIVE website.
How often do I need to update the new data and software?
You don’t. Data, pricing, application updates and more, are kept current on Infomedia’s central servers that deliver Microcat LIVE to your web browser. There’s no action required by you or members of your team other than entering your user name and password.
What are the technical requirements to run Microcat LIVE?
Microcat LIVE can run on any current computer system that has an internet browser. Other recommended technical specifications are set out in Features and Benefits. The internet connection speed and plan will depend upon what other internet usage your dealership requires. Again, please refer to Features and Benefits for specific information.
If I move to another computer, what happens to my notes and work-in-progress orders?
Microcat LIVE stores notes, settings and work-in-progress centrally. All your notes and work-in-progress is secure and accessible from any computer you connect to. Microcat LIVE makes this information available after you log in.
Is there a charge for Microcat LIVE to connect to my DMS?
Microcat was the first EPC to include automated parts transfer into DMS as a standard feature. That free feature is also available in Microcat LIVE. DMS integration is facilitated by the DMSi module which provides seamless transfer from Microcat LIVE to your DMS. Infomedia is also working with DMS suppliers to develop a bi-directional communication capability. This will create greater sales potential by having the two systems communicating during the selling process rather than just transferring parts list at the end of the interpretation.
What if the Internet goes down?
Microcat LIVE requires the computer it runs on to have a connection to the internet. However, these days, nearly all I.T. applications in the dealership have that same requirement (e.g.: OEM website and communications; DMS updates; F&I, email, service booking, social media). Practically speaking, the Internet has become a vital utility as necessary as electricity. Internet providers know they must keep their service fully operational for their business customers 24/7.
Some conservative Microcat LIVE users have purchased a low-cost wireless broadband USB stick/hub that they keep in the manager’s desk, while others know they can tether to their cell phone if the occasion arises. They do this as an emergency precaution should the Internet go down for an extended period. With these simple measures, a dealer has an insurance policy for such an unlikely event.
How will staff learn to use it?
Microcat LIVE is intuitive and follows the interpretation technique of: 1) Identify the Vehicle; 2) Select the Parts; and 3) Transfer Parts to the DMS.
When dealers sign up for Microcat LIVE, they receive access to the Getting Started Guide, a Keyboard Shortcuts card, and the See and LearnSM library of learn by example demonstrations. These items work to get both experienced and new parts people up to speed quickly. In addition, Infomedia conducts numerous instructor-led online seminars, where staff can receive advanced training or ask questions about individual areas of interest. See and Learn and the other training materials are included in the monthly subscription price.
Why should I use Microcat LIVE?
You should use Microcat LIVE if you want to:
1. Instantly have the latest parts catalogue and other OEM data.
2. Have greater parts searching speed and performance.
3. Have greater flexibility for staff to use the EPC from any computer inside or outside the dealership.
4. Have greater scope to develop sales strategies that use Microcat LIVE’s untethered nature.
5. Reduce technical complexity in your parts department.
6. Reduce costs of computer servers and maintenance.
7. Gain a competitive edge in your market place.
8. Future-proof your dealership and staff knowledge from the effects of equipment and operating system change.
