AASA members produce and supply the parts, chemicals and tools used to maintain and enhance North American passenger vehicles. Manufacturing and delivering quality, cost-effective, correct and timely products requires significant investments in information technology, data, business intelligence, systems and other technology-related capabilities.
The members of the AASA Technology Council (ATC) recognize the need to exchange best practices on how to secure, implement, integrate and utilize today’s leading-edge technology applications. The Council develops initiatives and organizes events to foster this exchange.
The annual ATC Spring Meeting was held in March in conjunction with the 2013 AASA Vision Conference. Members addressed several timely topics, all of which enabled the record number of attendees to consider to what extent their respective companies will integrate each area of technology.
Online Taxes – As e-tailing, drop shipments, fulfillment and other online-based transaction activities increase, manufacturers will need to address how taxes are collected and paid on online transactions of their products – whether they sell them direct or not. The existence of varying state laws magnifies the complexity of the issue. Washington is wrestling with this very topic right now.
Customer Listening – SalesForce.com presented and led a discussion on capabilities for tracking customer sentiment and converting it to opportunities for upselling and enhanced customer loyalty.
Mobile Apps – ATC members have addressed the potential for supplier-created mobile applications in several forums recently. Members discussed possible tools and resources that would help down-channel customers and create opportunities for enhanced customer loyalty.
Big Data Infrastructure – Greenplum/EMC presented on the areas that a manufacturer should address when considering how it will develop and implement a Big Data initiative.
Lessons Learned – Pricedex Software presented a list of critical areas that it has observed through its interaction with the aftermarket over the past several years, such as a lack of companies that view product information management from a holistic view.
Manufacturer-only – ATC manufacturer members reserve time during each meeting/event for roundtable discussions, providing an open environment for candid comments. During the Spring Meeting, members discussed an updated strategic plan for the Council, new committees, existing initiatives and ways the ATC can work to ensure the supplier community adopts and uses industry standards. (Third-party technology providers can join the Council as affiliate members.)
It is imperative that aftermarket suppliers engage in carefully planned forums to discuss their respective issues, learn from others how to utilize new technologies and work to optimize customer-facing e-commerce processes.
Editor’s Note: Chris Gardner is vice president, programs and member services, for the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA). He is the executive director of the AASA Technology Council (ATC), which provides leadership and a forum for technology leaders from supplier companies to exchange best practices, identify leading technology trends and address technology issues in the aftermarket. More information is available at www.aasatechnology.org.
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