Column {the editor}: A NEW ERA BEGINS

Jan. 1, 2020
Welcome to the new ABRN. If my column from last month didn't tip you off to our new format, then certainly our new size and look did. Why the big change? Let me walk you through it.
new ABRN

Welcome to the new ABRN. If my column from last month didn't tip you off to our new format, then certainly our new size and look did. Why the big change? Let me walk you through it.

SIZE MATTERS. Why the new format? The publishing industry as a whole is moving away from tabloid-sized magazines. Also, our new size is a response to reader requests for a product that's easier to transport and manage – one that can be tucked away in a briefcase, carried out to the shop floor or filed for future reference.

WE'RE ALL GUIDED BY THE SAME PHILOSOPHY. For years, ABRN has advocated the value of change, of adopting new ideas and operating on the cutting edge. We, of course, need to abide by the same philosophy and evolve. The new ABRN has transitioned beyond being just a magazine. ABRN is a resource working hand in hand with our Web site (www.search-autoparts.com), which just happens to be the number one provider of interactive business solutions for automotive parts buyers and sellers.

The new ABRN recognizes your need for news and information accessible 24/7 with content designed to tie in with our Web offerings. Most of our articles will include a link to extra content on our Web site where you'll also have ready access to any related stories. Our tagline, "The Auto Body Authority," projects this effort. We're no longer just the voice of the industry. We're a full-time partner.

TAKE A FRESH VIEW OF THE INDUSTRY. My column is now grouped with those from Bruce Burrow, Camille Eber and Tony Passwater, providing you with a single locale for the latest – and what we hope are the most thought-provoking – opinions on the industry, estimating, ownership and new business methods.

GET THE KIND OF NEWS YOU CAN USE. News is a daily, frequently hourly, matter. Obviously, a monthly periodical isn't the best format for this, so we've shifted focus to analysis. Each month we'll select the news stories with the most impact on repairers and examine how they'll play out in your shop. Looking for more news? Go no further than than our opening page, "Read it Now," for links to our hottest news items on the Web, updated daily.

FIND THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY. A reader survey provided direction on practically every step we've taken in our new design. You asked for more OEM technical information. We've responded with "The Idea Bank," a department dedicated entirely to the latest OEM tech (paint, materials, systems, etc.) For the first time ever, the collision repair industry has a monthly OEM resource dedicated solely to their needs.

TRACK THE TRAINING YOU NEED. Readers also indicated a desire for more training information. Done. Each month our "Training Ground" department provides step-by-step directions with plenty of graphics to help you repair, paint and refinish better than ever.

LEARN ABOUT THE LATEST PRODUCTS. Our popular product section is now divided between the technology and training departments, depending upon where they provide the best fit.

CLASS IS IN SESSION. The key to running a successful business is being a well-schooled business person. "Minding Your Business" details the latest business practices geared specifically to the collision repair industry with proven track records of success. Also included here is "Stolen Moments," which borrows practices from other industries you can utilize at your shop. "Profit Motive" offers immediate steps to help you beef up revenues today.

WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED. Each month, a hard-hitting, in-depth cover story will focus on a critical industry issue and provide potential answers.

YOUR FEEDBACK IS REQUESTED. With "Town Hall," ABRN closes out the same way it opens, with a nod to our Web offerings and with your thoughts in mind. We bring in your sharpest blog comments along with reader responses to our question of the month.

The change doesn't end there. We want your responses to the newly revamped ABRN. Let us know what you do - or don't - like. That's how we can best serve you.

Contact info: [email protected] (440) 891-2743

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