Auto repair software comes in two types: diagnostic and front office. Diagnostic software provides repair procedures, troubleshooting instructions, and other information, while front-end software includes estimators, planners, and work order generators. Modern auto repair facilities use computerized information systems, and some service providers offer information through an internet connection. Flat rate estimation is a key function of front-end software, which can also offer scheduling functionality, generate work orders, and track sales.
The two main types of auto repair software are used for diagnostics or to run the front office. Auto repair diagnostic software can contain a wealth of knowledge, including repair procedures, troubleshooting instructions, known good values for sensors, and other invaluable information. This software is often available in separate foreign and domestic editions, and may also cover specific makes of vehicles. Specialized auto repair software is also available for advanced diagnostic tools, some of which can be quite sophisticated computing devices. Front-end software can include estimators, planners, and work order generators.
Historically, mechanics got most of their information from repair manuals and experience. A handful of different publishers generated useful information and provided it in book form. Two main types of these books were diagnostic manuals and flat fee guides. Diagnostic manuals contained repair specifications and procedures, and flat-rate guides had estimates of how long each specific job should take. With the widespread use of personal computers in the workplace, this type of information has been translated into auto repair software.
Most modern auto repair facilities have some type of computerized information system to aid in diagnosis and repair. The simplest form of this is a single computer terminal with a set of compact discs (CDs) or digital versatile discs (DVDs) containing repair procedures, specifications, and other information. A technician can enter a vehicle’s year, make and model into this type of system to look up specific information. Some of these software programs also include a variety of schematic, wiring, and exploded view diagrams.
There are a few variants of this basic type of auto repair software. Some service providers offer all this information through an Internet connection. In this way, the technician or workshop pays a monthly fee to access information that is always up-to-date. Similar services offer critical bulletins and repair procedures that have been compiled by actual technicians in the field. Software is also typically available for dedicated scanner and diagnostic equipment, and some programs can even turn a laptop into a scan tool.
The other main type of auto repair software is typically used in the main office. Flat rate estimation is one of the most important functions of this software. This type of software allows a technician or service writer to enter a year, make and model of a vehicle to see how long a given repair should take. These flat rate numbers can be combined with the price of the parts to create an estimate. This type of software can also offer scheduling functionality, generate work orders, and track sales.
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