July 25, 2024 / by Auto Retail Professionals
Embracing the Future: Implementing and Maintaining Modern Technologies at Your Dealership

Listen up, dealers—the future is knocking, and it’s time to answer the door. In a competitive market like automotive, technology is an absolute necessity. Customers expect a seamless, digital experience; if you’re not delivering, they’ll find someone who is. But don’t worry – we’ve got your back. Let’s dive into the technologies every dealership should adopt to stay ahead of the game.
Key Technologies Every Dealership Should Adopt
Dealer Management Systems (DMS)
A modern, cloud-based DMS is the backbone of your operation. It streamlines everything from inventory management to accounting, giving you real-time data and remote access. No more juggling multiple systems or being chained to the dealership.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
CRM is your secret weapon for managing leads, customer interactions, and marketing campaigns. Look for features like mobile access, automation, and analytics to keep your team organized and your customers engaged. Bonus points if it integrates with your DMS and other systems.
Digital Retailing Tools
Online vehicle listings and virtual showrooms are the new normal. Customers want to shop on their terms, and digital retailing tools let you meet them where they are. Plus, you’ll expand your reach and stay ahead of the competition.
Service Department Technologies
Don’t neglect your service department. Tools like online scheduling, mobile payments, and vehicle tracking can boost efficiency and keep customers coming back. Integrate these with your DMS and CRM for a seamless experience.
Overcoming Resistance to Change
We get it; change can be scary. But trust us, the benefits of embracing new technologies outweigh the challenges. Sure, you’ll face some employee resistance and training needs, but with the right approach, you’ll gain buy-in and manage the transition like a pro.
Maintaining and Optimizing Your Technology Investments
Implementing new technologies is just the first step. Regularly review and update your systems to stay current and leverage data and analytics to optimize processes and marketing efforts. Don’t forget the importance of vendor relationships and support—they’re your lifeline when things get tricky. Bottom line, dealers: the future is now, and it’s time to embrace it. Implement these modern technologies, overcome the challenges, and watch your dealership soar.
Ready to future-proof your dealership? Learn how to implement and maintain modern technologies that will keep you ahead of the curve. Click here to learn more!