Continuous training helps deal with constant change

Jan. 1, 2020
The only thing we can depend on to not change is change itself
Burrow estimates estimating system

We were befuddled when those first disc brakes came into our shop in the late 1960s. After working with drum brakes for years, this was new and strange technology. It was a bit scary when we started working on these odd "caliper things." In the 1970s, we were confronted with new High Energy Ignition systems with no points or condenser. Then came new emission control devices and the explosive bumper shock absorbers. By the 1980s, we were facing fuel injection, computer controls and clear coats. In the 1990s, we were moving to computer estimating systems.

We adapted to all of it and more. Now, adapting is the norm as the pace of new technology keeps accelerating. Adapting is a function of knowledge and understanding as these new technologies keep coming. There are several ways to acquire training on all fronts: new vehicle technologies, new repair technologies and new estimating technologies.

There is the traditional "on-the-job" method. When coming across something new, you can figure it out on your own and, afterwards, know how to do it better next time. This approach can cost in terms of lost time, additional parts and reduced customer satisfaction, but it has always worked eventually.

Another method is "tribal" learning. When coming across something new, ask around to find someone else who has already run across this. Tribal learning may not be productive either, but it does expand the community of knowledge for next time.

Then there is "just-in-time" training. When coming across something new, work until you are stumped, then research for information or proper procedures. This may be through manufacturer's Web sites, equipment manuals or software guides. Such research may cost some time up front, but your repair or estimate will be proper and shouldn't waste additional time once you get going.

Finally, there is "specific" training that is planned ahead. This could be from the vehicle manufacturer, your welding equipment maker, your estimating system provider, I-CAR or any number of other training vendors. This can also be from reading technical articles and trade magazines, such as this one, on a regular basis. Of course, even specific training and regular reading can't cover every possible situation you may encounter, but a steady, planned accumulation of education provides an ever-expanding foundation of knowledge. In this way, you become continually more effective, efficient and productive.

This column was designed to accomplish exactly that since it started seven years ago. The idea of presenting estimating principles in small, regular bites was to provide a foundation of knowledge for all who need to work with collision repair estimates – both beginners and veterans, both writers and readers. This column has covered many aspects of today's estimating, including procedures, computers and even some common sense. We trust it has been helpful.

Of course, the only thing we can depend on to not change is change itself and that is what will happen here. This article will close my series on estimating principles, theories and applications as we start another year. Past articles will remain available at www.searchautoparts.com. You can search for them by typing Burrow into the search box in the upper right corner.

I've enjoyed writing this column and have learned a lot from writing it. Equally, I hope I have helped you learn some things you didn't know. Thanks for all of your support over the years and I will see you along the way in my new capacity as field support coordinator for I-CAR.

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