LIVERMORE, Calif. – Activant Solutions Inc. has introduced a new off-line capable version of its popular Activant LaserCat 3 electronic catalog to help auto parts stores continue business operations even during periods of system downtime or interrupted Internet connectivity.
Developed to address the needs of the growing number of parts businesses now using the LaserCat 3 eCatalog, the new off-line feature maintains year-make-model-engine lookup functionality at all locations even when network or Internet connectivity is lost, enabling counter people to continue to look up parts for customers. Without this capability, parts stores that are dependent on a host server and the Internet for electronic cataloging are susceptible to an interruption of their business in the event of a network or other outage.
Activant’s LaserCat 3 eCatalog interface helps counter professionals dramatically reduce the time needed to find, recommend and sell the right parts for millions of automotive and light/medium-duty truck applications. The user interface consolidates part and application information within a single screen and enables users to launch lookups with multiple inputs – year/make/model, vehicle identification number or part description. Its advanced logic dramatically reduces the number of “clicks” required for most lookups and allows the counterperson to reduce or even eliminate the need to take notes when serving a customer, says Activant. The LaserCat 3 application integrates all of Activant’s aftermarket databases – including InterChange, BuyerAssist, All Lines, Manufacturer’s Pricing and ItemExpert – which helps make the counterperson even more productive.
“The LaserCat 3 catalog is clearly one of the industry’s most powerful and effective front-line selling tools,” said Paul Salsgiver, executive vice president, Activant Solutions. “Its rapid adoption by leading distribution networks demonstrates the importance of providing your counter staff with the best available tools and information. With the introduction of our new off-line feature, we are helping users deliver a superior customer experience even during a network outage. That’s a significant benefit for any multi-store operation.”
The LaserCat 3 interface and off-line feature are now available to users of the Activant Eagle, Activant Vision, J-CON and Activant Prism business management systems and will soon be available to users of the Activant Ultimate system.
For additional information regarding the Activant LaserCat 3 interface, contact your Activant representative or call (800) 380-9015.
