MULTIMEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA ... HAS A ROI
Build it Right and They Will "Like"

Social Media ROI: This video showcases several Social Media ROI examples along with other effective Social Media strategies. (Video — Video by Erik Qualman/Socialnomics; Music — Bob Sinclair )

IGNITION POINT

THE POWER OF "NOT"
It's Time For a Different Perspective

I recently attended what I consider to be the single best training session in over a decade of attending numerous automotive service and repair industry events. Typically, one attends these events and captures a few “ah-ha” moments to apply back home. This session, facilitated by Ryan Schneider, grabbed me, provoked me, and compelled me to act immediately, before even returning home.

TOOLS & PARTS
FACEBOOK: THE NEW FRONTIER
Get More Customer Exposure Through New Social Networking Options

With Facebook's latest upgrade now fully implemented, auto parts distributors will find it's much easier to do business on the social network, especially when it comes to webpage design and Facebook traffic analysis. "The marketing potential of Facebook is unlimited, because unlike other Facebook pages, automotive enthusiasts are involved, have a common bond and a community bond — elements that are all perfect for Facebook," says Barbara Carlton, marketing coordinator, Smittybilt.

CARCHITECTURE
NIELSEN’S 2011 SOCIAL MEDIA REPORT
See the Current Consumer Trends Across Social Media Platforms

Social media not only connects consumers with each other, but also with just about every place they go and everything they watch and buy.

TOOLS & PARTS
GOING MOBILE: ARE YOU READY TO DOWNSIZE?
The next big thing in business computing is all about getting smaller

There is a quiet revolution happening within the world of computing. Processors, keyboards and screens are shrinking, and software is being replaced with downloadable "apps," or applications designed to make your smartphone or tablet work just like a desktop or laptop computer.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

10 Qs: MEET THE MOBILE AIR CONDITIONING SOCIETY (MACS) WORLDWIDE
Helping Technicians and Facilities Keep Current With Ever-Changing A/C Technology

The Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) Worldwide is recognized worldwide as an authority on mobile air conditioning and heat transfer industry issues. "Our primary focus is providing education and training for working technicians to help them keep current with ever-changing technology," shared Elvis L. Hoffpauir, MACS president and COO, during an interview with NASTF. "In addition, MACS develops training materials and provides training for automotive students and entry-level technicians, as well as training focused on the specific needs of other groups, like fleet technicians."

NASTF GENERAL MEETING
WHAT IF EVERYBODY WINS?
2011 Fall General Meeting Focuses on Vehicle Serviceability

The National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) held its 2011 autumn general meeting in Orlando, Fla., during Automotive Service and Repair Week. Beyond normal business affairs, the focus of the meeting was a panel discussion centered on improving vehicle serviceability. Why? Because it matters to everyone.

NASTF KNOW-HOW
HOW TO FILE A NASTF SERVICE INFORMATION REQUEST
While not a technical hotline, these requests help identify and close information gaps

The NASTF Information Request (IR) process is designed to help resolve and close information gaps for service, tooling and training when identified. When a service provider or other industry participant identifies a genuine information gap, automakers will take the time to fully investigate and resolve bona fide concerns. Here's what you need to know to file or view an SIR with NASTF.