Players in the automotive industry face the prospect of trading in an unsettled market and are realising the importance of strategic technology solutions.
This is according to Callie Human, executive director at eliance, a national provider of business solutions targeting the automotive sector. He says the automotive sector is faster and more efficient than many other market segments in terms of adopting, installing and using information technology.
Human cites the introduction of the National Credit Act as an example of the extent to which the industry has evolved in this regard and is able to meet the challenges of this marketplace. "The motor industry was actually ready to provide and release the software and to transact in the new way. It was a serious reality check as to the maturity of our IT adoption strategy and implementation," he says.
In his opinion, incorporation of reliable, effective technology and system infrastructure has always played a role in business but is now considered absolutely fundamental for any serious contender - especially under current market conditions.
"After many years of high retail volume and 'bumper' seasons in the motor industry, we are experiencing a slowdown. Under these competitive circumstances, operators need to be proactive and not reactive - and investment in the relationship with a true software solutions and services provider does make a difference," he says.
According to him, the chief aim is to provide a centralised solution that provides a single interface for operators through which they are able to manage a multi-level, multi-functional environment.
Human says consumers are using the Internet and e-mail more and more as a channel through which to purchase a vehicle. "We have a vested interest in ensuring there are systems and solutions that can manage challenging market dynamics. Exciting times lie ahead for this industry and future technology," he concludes.
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