Bodyshop software specialists EMACS have developed a new App for the iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch that enables repairers to monitor and update jobs while on the move. Called ARC-AiDE it has been designed to be informative, user-friendly and secure. It means Bodyshop management staff can keep in touch with the workshop, view the status of jobs and update anything they need to without having to contact anyone while away from their desk.

Using the system technicians in the workshop can clock on and off jobs, using the touch screen, see the next job they are allocated and take images of any further damage they find, which are automatically uploaded to the job file and can be copied back to the estimate. There are also search functions to help find active jobs by registration, job number or key tag number, and several short cuts to make the App a fast and flexible resource.

The App is of particular benefit to collection and delivery staff, helping to increase efficiency and reduce paperwork. Customer information is available instantly and ARC-AiDE can even dial the numbers or point out the customer’s location on a map. Delivery staff can take images of the fuel level and damage on the customer’s car which the customer can then sign off.

“ARC-AiDE is quite complex in terms of functionality but our programmers have spent a lot of time developing it so that it is logical and straightforward to use,” said Alan Hargreaves, Managing Director, EMACS. He added, “For example, you only need to go into one screen to see instantly what jobs there are, what status they are at, who is working on them, who was previously working on them and the hours remaining.”

Unlike many converged Applications, ARC-AiDE has been designed from the ground up to provide a useful productivity aid for the EMACS Bodyshop Management System. The App is available from the iTunes store and there is no limit to the number of iPhone connections to a site. Bodyshops will need an updated software release for the application to run.

For more information on the application and the EMACS Bodyshop Management System visit www.emacs.org.uk