Independent auto parts specialist describes MAM's visits as a "fantastic idea"

Fife-based auto parts specialist Essport Autoparts recently booked an MOT visit with MAM Software to fine-tune the use of its business management solution (BMS).

An MOT visit is carried out onsite by a member of MAM's Professional Services team, who assesses how a business is currently using its systems. They will provide tailored recommendations to help improve efficiency and productivity.

Essport Autoparts offers a wide selection of vehicle parts and accessories, including brake discs, pads, wiper blades and filters. The independent retailer, which is a United Aftermarket Network member, wanted to find out more about Autopart's latest capabilities.

Essport Autoparts has been an MAM customer since 1984 and uses Autopart to manage its core business processes. The BMS is designed for the automotive aftermarket and is available as a cloud-based solution, lowering upfront costs while eliminating the need for updates and maintenance.

Ian Smillie, director of Essport Autoparts, thought the MOT visits were a "fantastic idea". "We are located in central Scotland, so the fact MAM were willing to send one of the Professional Services team out to do an on-site tune-up visit was great for us," he commented.

Ian wanted reassurance that his team were using Autopart to its full potential; the MOT visit provided this and much more.

"We received some general housekeeping advice, as well as specific recommendations on our use of the system," Ian noted.

Following the MOT visit, Essport Autoparts has undergone a system upgrade and is looking to introduce AutoGRNi, which enables purchase invoices and credits to automatically be posted to supplier accounts on a purchase ledger.

Staff are now able to issue receipts for cheque and BACS payments, and they have changed the layout of the invoices and credit notes they issue. Essport Autoparts is also using the BMS to generate end-of-day reports, which give the company a better overview of its finances.

As a result of the visit, Ian is able to carry out day-to-day tasks more efficiently, which will save considerable amounts of time across his business.

"I would say to anyone who hasn't booked an MOT visit that I'd certainly recommend it. The session was thoroughly worthwhile and it's something we would consider doing again next year."

Matthew Collier, Professional Services director at MAM Software, said: "Keeping up-to-date with the latest features in any BMS is crucial to getting the most out of the system.

"Essport Autoparts is the perfect example of how an MOT visit can make a difference to a business. We've introduced the latest functionality within Autopart and made a number of relatively simple changes to their system that will position the company for future success."