SAN DIEGO – To help address shortages of qualified estimators and improve estimating accuracy, Audatex will introduce graphics featuring 3D vehicle depictions and animations in its upcoming release of Audatex Estimating at NACE 2008.
The Audatex Estimating multi-dimensional 3D technology shows complete views of vehicle parts in relation to their assemblies. Users select damaged parts from enhanced part views and can then quickly rotate/position these parts to provide optimal views of the parts data. The technology also provides 3D animations of the removal and replacement of parts and assemblies, a feature that was specifically designed to help demonstrate new and unfamiliar procedures. These new intelligent graphics are designed to provide a more complete understanding of what needs to be included in the estimate.
Clear identification of parts that may be missed in the original estimate, as well as identification of increasingly complex substrate materials, drives accurate estimate preparation and repair processes.
Audatex says enhanced multi-dimensional visual depiction of vehicle assemblies and parts improves original estimate accuracy by an average of eight percent. To insurers and repairers, an eight percent improvement in first-time accuracy represents significant financial benefits and process improvements. In the past 12 months, the costs for insurers to re-inspect a vehicle and process a supplement have risen dramatically, while improved cycle-time continues to have a direct correlation to costs, as well as to customer satisfaction and retention.
Multi-dimensional 3D technology is used in a range of industries and has shown that it can facilitate training and enable knowledge retention in shorter timeframes and in a more cost-effective manner than other processes. For technicians, appraisers and adjusters who have limited experience with a particular vehicle or procedure, Audatex says the intelligent graphics greatly improve decision making.
In addition to improving accuracy, cycle time and repair costs, this technology can help the appraiser or repairer educate customers on the repair process. This can be of vital importance because understanding the claim and repair processes has been identified by some insurers as the number one concern regarding their relationships with customers.
