Selecting an IT partner for your dealership is a decision that requires thorough vetting. Asking the right questions during the selection process will help you gauge their expertise, reliability, and ability to meet your needs.
What experience do you have with auto dealerships?
Look for specific examples of projects they’ve completed for other dealerships. Do they understand the tools and systems you rely on, like Dealer Management Systems (DMS)? Can they provide references or case studies to back up their experience?
How do you handle data security and compliance for dealerships?
Auto dealerships deal with sensitive customer and financial data. Ask about their approach to securing data and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, such as data protection laws and industry-specific standards.
What is your process for minimizing downtime?
Downtime impacts sales and customer satisfaction. Learn about their proactive monitoring and response strategies to prevent and address issues quickly. Ask how they manage system updates or migrations to avoid disruptions.
Can you provide examples of how you’ve helped dealerships overcome IT challenges?
Real-world success stories can reveal their problem-solving capabilities. For example, have they improved operational efficiency, streamlined systems, or implemented new technologies for other dealerships?
How do you approach IT scalability and future planning?
As your dealership grows, your IT needs will evolve. Ask how they handle scalability and what steps they take to future-proof your systems. Are they proactive in recommending new technologies or solutions?
How do you measure success in your IT partnerships?
Their response to this question can reveal their commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term results. Look for measurable outcomes like reduced downtime, improved efficiency, or enhanced security.