Goodpoint-of-sale software programs have been out there for a long time,but that doesn’t mean all tire dealers are taking advantage of them.With so much software training available, there is no longer any excusefor missing out on the benefits and profitability POS software candeliver.
With a few clicks of the mouse, one can see informationabout a shop’s inventory including brand, size, price and profitmargins. Further, counter staff can process major credit cards quicklyand easily, in addition to processing debit cards and depositing thefunds directly into an existing bank account. Shop owners no longerneed to purchase and maintain outdated credit card terminals andprinters, resulting in faster transactions at the counter.
Agood integrated software program will also allow a dealer to tap intowhat they have in stock in the parts department. One that offers anelectronic shop catalog with a comprehensive listing of parts, laborand service intervals eliminates the need for stand-alone shopcatalogs.
With just a few clicks, one can find the tires,parts and labor needed and add them to a work order directly from thefront-counter invoicing screen. With today’s software, dealers cansearch for an item by any combination of part numbers and come upquickly with such data as sales margins, tire width, aspect ratio,vendor or inventory subtype and the correct auto service repair parts.
Becausethe front counter is one of a shop’s most valuable assets, according tosoftware makers, it’s not just what a dealer sells, but also what theybuy that can make the difference in profitability. A good softwarepackage can recommend purchases based on historical trends and desiredinventory turns. This is must-have knowledge because no one wants to becaught shorthanded.
Dealers can “red-line” reports that notifythem of slow-moving inventory or review automatic electronic priceupdates. It’s also possible to instantly review real-time stockinglevels for each location by simply plugging in the customer’s requestand being able to see availability, sales margins and brand names. Assoon as a counter person presents that information to a customer,they’re almost certainly on the way to a sale.
