Assured Performance Introduces Estimate TranslatorTM for Consumers!

For Immediate Release:
September, 2007

Contact:
Kevin Caldwell
949-221-0088 ext: 231
Kevin.Caldwell@AssuredPerformance.NET

September 10, 2007, Irvine, CA – Assured Performance, a consumer advocacy organization, and the largest network of independently owned body shops in the world, announced today the planned release of their “Collision Care Estimate Translator TM,” an electronic tool that goes beyond the basic estimate scrubbers and translates a traditional estimate filled with jargon into a consumer friendly version.  The program is easy to use and provides shops with a unique selling and marketing tool, and a competitive advantage with consumers.  The revolutionary tool uses a proprietary process to translate the database estimating terms and line items body shops and insurers use into a clear explanation of the repair to be performed.  The “Collision Care Estimate Translation” is as accurate as the original estimate, but written in lay terms that are supported by illustrations that help justify bottom line costs.  It helps estimators sell better and educate their customers with features that clarify the repair process and illustrate the various elements necessary to repair their vehicle including the parts and paint materials to be used.  An additional benefit of using the Translator is greater compliance to consumer protection full disclosure laws.  Assured Performance Network will officially release their Collision Care Estimate Translator TM during their Marketing Summit, September 26 – 28 in Lake Tahoe.
“As a former shop owner and estimator, I have first-hand knowledge of how urgent the need is for this tool,” said Kevin Caldwell, Membership Relations for Assured Performance Network.  “Good estimators have always had to bridge the gap and explain the lines of the estimate to the consumer.  Now, our shops have a tool to help their entire staff do that with greater consistency, accuracy and credibility.” 

This new product is the only one of its kind.  Not only does it offer the translation for the consumer, but it also includes popular desk auditing and estimate review capabilities.  It can analyze your estimate and forecast your profit margins according to the blueprint you have provided and the historical information you enter upon setup.  This aspect of the program reviews the estimate taking into consideration user defined house rules.  The review process also helps the shop ensure their estimate complies with labor rate and line item guidelines a shop may establish to be competitive in the local market place, or as part of any wholesale agreement they may have.  This addresses consistency and accuracy, sometimes referred to as leakage.  Collision Care Estimate Translator TM interfaces with all major estimate formats.  The program is designed to be very easy to use and fast.  It only takes a few minutes to install, and only seconds to import, check for accuracy, and output the translation!

The Collision Care Estimate Translator TM was developed as an integral part of their consumer advocacy efforts and as a special no-cost benefit for those shops that have been qualified through the consumer advocacy organization, Assured Performance Collision Care (www.CollisionCare.Org).  Regardless, non-participating body shops may purchase it.

“The traditional estimate is really a negotiating and price control tool between insurers and repairers, and is otherwise confusing and misleading to consumers.  This program will help shops regain ownership of their customer!”  Scott Biggs, CEO, and Founder of Assured Performance Network explained,  “Now, thousands of qualified repair businesses can offer a better consumer experience, and by leveraging our co-op, none of our Members have to reach into their pocket to pay for it!”

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