Epicor Software Corporation introduced two automotive aftermarket electronic catalog publishing features that dramatically reduce the time required to deploy manufacturer-supplied information within the Epicor PartExpert solution replacement parts databases. The new features can in many instances reduce data processing time to as little as 24 to 48 hours of receipt of updated files from the manufacturer.
A new “Net Adds” processing feature enables Epicor to extract, format and release new part numbers and corresponding application information separate from complete manufacturer file updates. This feature, developed through a significant technology investment, helps ensure dramatically faster access to part number information while maintaining the assessment, research and formatting standards that have helped make Epicor eCatalog products the premier choice of automotive aftermarket professionals.
“Faster availability of data is useful only when paired with a comprehensive assessment process that eliminates errors and other issues that could impact the ultimate parts transaction,” said Scott Thompson, vice president, automotive, retail distribution solutions for Epicor. “Our Net Adds capability accelerates new-parts data availability while protecting Epicor eCatalog users from accuracy issues that could cost them thousands of dollars in lost business.”
A second new Epicor eCatalog feature, Epicor PartExpert Dynamic Updates, enables many of the company’s eCatalog users to automatically download new PartExpert replacement parts data files on a weekly basis. Unlike the current Epicor Active Updates data delivery feature, which downloads the entire Epicor PartExpert catalog file, Dynamic Updates delivers only data that has changed since the last update, resulting in smaller files and faster processing. Offered at no charge, Dynamic Updates are available immediately for customers using the Windows-based Epicor LaserCat 3 software and are scheduled to be available soon for other Epicor eCatalog interfaces.
“Net Adds and Dynamic Updates are two distinct investments and capabilities that serve the same purpose -- to make Epicor eCatalog products not only the most comprehensive, accurate and user-friendly, but also the most timely in the aftermarket,” Thompson said. “We have made tremendous progress in reducing the data publishing cycle without compromising our quality standards and are working each day with manufacturers to identify new areas for improvement.”
More aftermarket parts are referenced and sold through Epicor eCatalog products than any other electronic resource. The Epicor LaserCat 3 eCatalog interface and PartExpert replacement parts databases feature millions of aftermarket and original equipment manufacturer application parts as well as performance and collision components and supplies, tires, non-application products, and more. Available content also includes detailed product images, installation instructions, comprehensive buyer’s guide and interchange, integrated flat-rate labor guide, and repair jobs and maintenance intervals packages linked to corresponding parts to help users increase sales, save time and deliver a superior customer experience.
To learn more about Epicor PartExpert automotive aftermarket eCatalog products and related services, call Epicor toll-free at 888-463-4700, or email [email protected].
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