Chrome's AutoBuilder 3.0 Release Includes Comparator Feature With Vehicle Scoring System for OEMs
PORTLAND, Ore.--April 15, 2002--Chrome Systems Corporation, a leading provider of automotive data, configuration technology and commerce solutions, today announced AutoBuilder 3.0 will include a comparator scoring feature for marketing planning and value analysis by OEMs.
AutoBuilder is an Application Programming Interface (API) developer's tool that enables manufacturer's to create custom vehicle configuration and comparison applications.
This industry-first scoring system can be customized to fit the needs of various user groups. By assigning a numeric score to each of the different items of specification in the Chrome data schema, marketing and product planning departments can tabulate weighted scores for vehicle comparisons, commonly referred to as value analysis.
The scores can then be used to design more effective marketing programs or adjust pricing based on the differences between the vehicles' side-by-side specifications. The easy-to-understand, text-based engine within the API can be adjusted to accentuate a vehicle's best attributes and create the most meaningful experience for the target audience. This functionality will enable OEMs to more quickly and easily communicate a vehicle's value vis-a-vis its competition, increasing the likelihood of a favorable impression on the end-user.
"Our new comparison functionality integrates seamlessly with the configurator and inventory search functions in AutoBuilder 3.0. Whether the implementation is for a consumer-facing website, CRM application, or LTO/BTO initiative, we believe AutoBuilder now offers the most complete package of tools available to manufacturers today," said David Mingle, President and COO of Chrome Systems.
About Chrome
Chrome serves more than 12,000 clients, including half of all automotive dealers in the U.S. and Canada, providing vehicle content, configuration technology, software and professional services. Chrome produces enterprise solutions for all segments of the retail automotive industry: manufacturers, fleet companies, dealers and Internet sites. Chrome pioneered the technology behind electronic vehicle configuration and for the past 16 years has collected, analyzed and enhanced "raw" automotive data from all manufacturers. Chrome provides the North American ordering system for General Motors and its 8,300 dealers. Chrome sets the standard in fleet management ordering systems, serving 13 of the 17 largest fleet leasing companies. Chrome is based in Portland, Oregon. For more information, contact www.chrome.com, 800/936-8906.