Websites using Dealercenter

Okay, let s break down DealerCenter, focusing on the key areas you ve asked about.

What is DealerCenter?

DealerCenter is a comprehensive dealership management system (DMS) designed primarily for independent and franchise dealerships. It aims to streamline various aspects of dealership operations, from inventory management to CRM and financing. It s known for being user-friendly and often more affordable than some of the larger, enterprise-level DMS solutions. It is cloud-based.

Key Features/Overview:

• Inventory Management: Tracking vehicles, managing vehicle details, photos, and descriptions. Syndication to online marketplaces (like AutoTrader, Cars.com, etc.).
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Managing leads, customer interactions, and sales processes. Tracking customer preferences, communication history, and follow-up activities.
• Sales & F&I (Finance and Insurance): Creating deals, generating contracts, submitting deals to lenders, and managing F&I products. e-contracting.
• Credit Bureau Access: Integrates with credit bureaus for pulling credit reports.
• Reporting: Generating reports on sales, inventory, finance, and other key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Mobile Access: Access and manage dealership operations from mobile devices (tablets and smartphones).
• Accounting Integration: Integrates with accounting software (like QuickBooks) for financial management.
• Website Integration: Integration with dealership websites to keep inventory and customer information synchronized.

Revenue Model:

DealerCenter primarily generates revenue through:

• Subscription Fees: Dealers pay a recurring subscription fee (usually monthly) to access the DealerCenter platform and its features.
• Add-on Modules/Services: They may offer additional modules or services for an extra cost, such as advanced reporting, enhanced CRM features, or integration with specific third-party tools.
• Transaction Fees: Some integrations, particularly with credit bureaus or financing platforms, might involve transaction fees per use.
• Training & Support: While some basic support is included, they might offer premium training packages or dedicated support for an additional fee.

Alternatives to DealerCenter:

The DMS market is competitive. Here are some alternatives to DealerCenter, categorized by type:

• Cloud-Based DMS (Similar Focus):

  • Frazer: Popular choice for independent dealers.
  • AutoManager: Offers a range of solutions for independent and franchise dealers.
  • DeskManager Online by AutoStar Solutions: Another cloud-based option.
  • vAuto: More focused on inventory management and pricing (owned by Cox Automotive).

• Enterprise DMS (Larger Dealers/Franchise Groups):

  • CDK Global: One of the largest DMS providers, serving primarily franchise dealerships.
  • Reynolds and Reynolds: Another major player in the enterprise DMS space.
  • Dominion VUE DMS: A comprehensive solution for larger dealerships.

• Specialized Software:

  • CRM-focused: HubSpot, Salesforce (if customized for auto).
  • Inventory Management: VinSolutions (also a full DMS, but strong in inventory).
  • F&I Solutions: RouteOne, Dealertrack.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative:

• Dealership Size and Type: Independent vs. Franchise. Number of locations.
• Budget: Pricing varies significantly between systems.
• Specific Needs: What are the most critical features for your dealership?
• Ease of Use: How user-friendly is the system?
• Integration Capabilities: Does it integrate with other tools you use?
• Scalability: Can the system grow with your dealership?

Pricing:

DealerCenter s pricing is generally considered competitive, especially for independent dealers. It is not possible to provide exact pricing here, as it often depends on the dealership s size, specific needs, and any add-on modules selected.

• Expect a monthly subscription fee. This is the core cost.
• There may be setup fees.
• Factor in potential costs for:
  • Credit bureau access.
  • Additional users.
  • Advanced reporting.
  • Integration with third-party tools.

To get accurate pricing, you need to contact DealerCenter directly for a quote. Be prepared to discuss your dealership s specific requirements. Also, inquire about any available trials or demos.

Customer Care Details:

• Support Channels:

  • Phone Support: Likely a primary channel for immediate assistance.
  • Email Support: For less urgent inquiries.
  • Online Knowledge Base/Help Center: A repository of articles, FAQs, and tutorials.
  • Training Resources: They may offer training videos, webinars, or on-site training sessions.

• Key Considerations for Customer Care:

  • Responsiveness: How quickly do they respond to inquiries?
  • Knowledge: Are the support staff knowledgeable and able to resolve issues effectively?
  • Availability: What are their support hours?
  • User Reviews: Look for online reviews from other dealers to get an idea of their customer service reputation.

• How to Evaluate Customer Care (Before Committing):

  • Ask about their support process during the sales process.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials. Pay attention to comments about customer support.
  • If possible, try contacting their support team with a sample question before signing up.
  • Inquire about Service Level Agreements (SLAs) if available.

In summary:

DealerCenter is a solid option for many dealerships, especially independent dealers looking for a comprehensive and affordable DMS. However, it s essential to compare it against alternatives and carefully evaluate your specific needs before making a decision. Pricing and customer support quality are key factors to consider. I strongly recommend getting a direct quote from DealerCenter and trying a demo before committing.