Any business is only as good as the systems and processes that support it. Automotive Fleet Management is no exception. This is why, when it comes to choosing Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software, Fleet Managers must ensure they’re selecting the best. Investing in a poor system only to discover months later that it doesn’t fulfil your fleet maintenance requirements efficiently or comprehensively is a costly mistake. In this article, we will explore what Fleet Managers should look for when selecting Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software, and what features make up the best.

What is Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software?

Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software is a system that enables Fleet Managers to effectively and comprehensively plan, record, and execute fleet maintenance programs across their fleet(s). The best Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software will cover the fleet maintenance cycle at every stage, from booking to repair through to billing, while also recording all associated service history and related admin tasks.

Built from Scratch: The ForWare Advantage

Unlike many Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software solutions that rely on pre-existing platforms or base systems, ForWare is designed from scratch. This unique approach allows ForWare to be finely tuned to the specific needs of fleet management without the constraints or limitations of an underlying system. The result is a tailored, high-performance solution that stands out in the industry.

Integration with Other Systems

A critical area to consider when choosing Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software is how easily it integrates with other systems used by you or your service partners. For instance, can it plug into your workshop’s DMS system? If not, you will end up with a lot of extra admin work, from researching service history to booking and invoicing. ForWare excels here, being compatible with major DMS platforms like KeyLoop, thereby streamlining operations and reducing administrative burdens.

Adaptability to Change

The motor trade is in a state of flux like never before. Therefore, when choosing Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software, it’s vital to consider your current requirements and processes while ensuring the system is future-proof for upcoming changes. There’s little point in investing in a system that’s fixed and rigid if it’s going to prove unadaptable to future process changes. ForWare is dynamic, constantly adapting and adding new applications as the requirements and processes evolve throughout the motor trade.

Seamless Job Authorisation

Efficient vehicle repair relies heavily on timely job authorisations. Delays in vehicle work authorisation can lead to frustration and inefficiency. A good Fleet Maintenance Software should streamline this process. ForWare does precisely that with its Automatic Work Authorisation feature. A repair authorisation request can be sent directly from the technician to the customer, who can approve or reject the request with a simple tap, eliminating wasted time for Service Advisors.

Compatibility with Major Motor Manufacturers

Good Fleet Maintenance Software should be easily integrated with other software systems used by fleets and garages and should be compatible with Service Packs, Vehicle Health Check specs, Video, Warranty Information, etc., specific to your fleet. ForWare incorporates all these features, being compatible with all major motor manufacturers’ specs. It can also be customised for lease fleets and second-hand vehicles, ensuring comprehensive service.

Unified Billing

Streamlining admin processes is essential for efficient fleet management, including the invoicing stage. Inefficient systems often result in multiple invoices for each vehicle, especially when using multiple garages. ForWare simplifies this with unified billing. Users receive one consolidated request for payment each month, regardless of how many vehicles or garages are involved. This approach is beneficial for both Fleet Managers and Accounts Departments.

Video Vehicle Health Check (VHC)

Transparency is crucial in fleet maintenance, and knowing what you’re paying for is essential. ForWare was the first in the industry to offer Two-Way Video VHC as a basic component of its Fleet Maintenance Software package. This feature enables direct, transparent communication between the technician and the authoriser on all aspects of a vehicle repair job, ensuring clarity and trust.

Continuous Evolution and Proactive Development

ForWare is constantly evolving to meet the requirements of its customers. Unlike other Fleet Management software packages that may take months or even years to roll out updates or new features, ForWare implements improvements seamlessly and promptly. Our development team actively listens to feedback from Fleet Managers and other users, ensuring proactive, not reactive, development.

Experience the ForWare Difference

If you’re looking for Automotive Fleet Maintenance Software that makes your Automotive Fleet Management life easier and more efficient, look no further than ForWare. Get in touch with us today for a free demonstration. Call Alan on 021 484 5554 or email alan@forware.io.