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Toyota bodyshops continue 'Kaizen' philosophy by implementing Audatex as system of choice

17th February 2012

Audatex UK is pleased to announce it has been selected by Toyota (GB) Plc as its estimating solution partner in a strategic partnership which through the development and application of best practice body repair estimating standards, is delivering measurable performance improvements in line with Japanese “Kaizen” philosophy across the Toyota accident repair network.

The decision to approve Audatex for all Toyota body repair estimates follows a comprehensive pilot programme centred around Jemca Accident Repair Centre in Croydon. Following Japanese tradition, the centre has been utilised as the “Dojo” or place of learning for the Toyota Body & Paint network.

“We chose Jemca Croydon as the starting point for the development of an innovative new programme designed to encourage bodyshops to re-think their business. The market has changed and we’re responding to this with a complete review of best practice throughout our bodyshop network, at the heart of which is ‘right first time’ estimating,” explained Steve Settle, Director, Customer Services, Toyota GB Plc.

The accuracy of vehicle damage assessing was identified early on as a key driver in bodyshop efficiency and Toyota called upon Audatex to support the programme with best practice advice, process recommendations, training needs analysis, soft skills development and technical training.  Audatex Management Information (MI) supports the programme, helping to measure estimating accuracy, efficiency and missed opportunities.

“Our bodyshop development programme is focussed on the Toyota principles of Quality and Right First Time”, explained Steve Settle. “We’ve identified that ‘right first time estimating’ is fundamental to delivering a quality repair, faster vehicle throughput, reduced cycle times, improved courtesy car utilisation and increased customer satisfaction. By focussing on the processes and practices surrounding the compilation of vehicle damage assessments, we’re improving the efficiency and performance of the bodyshop business as a whole.”

With a focussed group of successful brands (Toyota and Lexus), estimators in the Toyota network are in a position to specialise and achieve the highest quality estimating standards. As well as ensuring that jobs are authorised more quickly, new ‘express repair’ opportunities have been identified. In one example, the production of highly comprehensive assessments is enabling pre-prepared and painted parts and panels to be fitted for customers in a highly efficient ‘while you wait’ service.

As the only estimating system to use vehicle manufacturers times and data, the Audatex AudaEnterpriseGold system offers extensive coverage of the Toyota and Lexus car parc with 9865 derivatives of 61 models. The close partnership between the Toyota Body & Paint and Audatex teams means that the exchange of up-to-date vehicle data has been further enhanced.

“Initial feedback from our network has been very encouraging,” said Steve Settle. “With our monthly benchmarking programme, consistent processes and training all underpinned by standards (including PAS 125), Toyota (GB) are providing an efficient, high quality body repair service at the right cost. Working with Audatex to manage and meet our KPIs is an important development for Toyota (GB) Plc, our customers and our business partners.”

Paul Sykes, Sales & Operations Director, Audatex UK said:  “We’re delighted to be appointed as Toyota’s estimating solution partner. Standardisation on our platform for all estimates, including warranty, is enabling Toyota to measure and monitor their service levels and maintain their very high standards. 98% compliancy with Audatex has already been achieved across the Toyota repair network and we’re looking forward to bringing the remaining bodyshops on board.”