Scott Luckett, MAAP, is the chief information officer at the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) and chairman of the Aftermarket eForum Planning Committee. In today’s AMN Executive Interview, Luckett talks about the plans for this year’s Aftermarket eForum, which takes place May 22-23 in conjunction with the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) in Chicago. 
How is the Aftermarket eForum program different from years past?
We focused on quality and value for the time and money people spend to be there. The general session on Wednesday, immediately following the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), will feature executive presentations from Delphi Product & Service Solutions; UPS; eBay Motors and the co-founder of Hughes Telematics. Topics such as supply chain and logistics, online commerce and e-tailing, and aftermarket telematics solutions are relevant to every segment of the industry. Our promise is: “If it Matters … It’s at eForum,” and in one afternoon we’re going to deliver lots to think about.
What changes have you implemented for the eForum in 2013?
The most important change is the co-location with GAAS. We recognized that the aftermarket industry calendar is completely full, especially in the spring. But, taking the time to get away from the office and think about technology and plan new strategies is critical. By putting eForum immediately after GAAS, we are able to offer two events for the cost of one airfare and hotel stay. GAAS is May 21-22 and eForum is May 22-23. When folks register for both events, they save $250 over the cost of the separate events.
What can you tell us about the breakout sessions on Thursday morning?
Each of the breakout sessions offers an opportunity to explore a theme or topic from the previous day in more detail. The goal will be to deliver implementation plans and actionable steps in supply chain management, B2B e-commerce and deploying vehicle connectivity and telematics. When business and technology leaders attend these sessions together, they will learn what is possible today and how to get started.
What makes the Aftermarket eForum not-to-be-missed in 2013?
Well, who would want to miss another industry event at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in beautiful Rosemont, Ill.? But, if that isn’t enough, we believe the eForum content will hit important industry challenges head-on and give attendees plenty think about on the way home. The proceeds of both GAAS and eForum benefit the aftermarket scholarship fund. The conference agenda respects your time and delivers great value.
Find the full agenda and registration information at www.aftermarket.org/eforum.
