For technicians, computerized measuring allows them to significantly improve repair quality while substantially reducing repair time. As lasers precisely measure the damaged sections of the vehicle, a computer compares these measurements to the vehicle’s correct specifications.

Damage – even hidden damage – is precisely identified which enables technicians to plan and execute repair plans more effectively. And the best systems will actually display measurements while repairs are being made. This unique feature allows them to monitor these changes as they occur to quickly and accurately return the vehicle to factory-like condition. 

Insurer’s benefit

And while there’s little argument that computerized measuring yields multiple benefits to the collision repair industry, insurance companies are some of the most vocal supporters of this new repair technology. As more and more insurance providers see the benefits of computerized measuring, they either strongly recommend or require shops they do business with to have computerized measuring as part of their repair process. 

A large part of this enthusiasm centers around the printed documentation these systems provide. By being able to read and analyze a detailed print-out of the vehicle frame before repairs are initiated, insurance companies have come to realize that frame supplements and friction costs can be virtually eliminated. Additionally, printed documentation of a vehicle’s “road-worthiness” after repairs drastically reduces future liability should that vehicle ever be involved in an accident again. 

Shops and insurance companies that have invested in this training traditionally realize an amazingly fast return on their investment in a number of areas: 

        •Repairs are completed more quickly and efficiently, resulting in greater profits

        •Reduced comebacks

        •Sharp reduction in supplements and friction costs

        •Increased business from both customer word-of-mouth and insurance company DRP volume

        •Higher retention of their skilled workers 

Successful companies are those that stay abreast of new technologies and continue to seek ways to improve the quality of their products and services. Computerized measuring has proven its effectiveness to the point that body shops and insurance companies are now faced with two basic choices – they can either climb aboard this train to increased profitability – or face the possibility of getting run over by it! And without a doubt, proper training in the use and understanding of computerized measuring technology is the engine driving the train.