CrossCheck Blog

Few things in life function properly right out of the box. Purchase a guitar, and there are bridges to dial in and strings to replace. Buy a new car, and there are seats to adjust and a clock to set. Add a new computer, and there are desktop pictures to choose and hundreds of apps to personalize, including the email client and web browsers. It never ends. What about online management systems for medical practices, especially those claiming to integrate a handful of platforms in one easy-to-use package? Smart management and marketing solutions may indeed simplify and fulfill multiple functions, but the learning curve for setup and operation is extensive. Following a successful launch, the proper management of all sources can increase sales by improving the quantity and quality of patients walking through the door. M

The 2014 Annual Report of ATV-Related Deaths and Injuries by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicates a decline in reported deaths and injuries resulting from ATV incidents, especially in the last 10 years. The improved numbers could rejuvenate a relatively flat ATV sales market in the USA from 2012 to 2014.

In an insightful article about how automotive dealers can tap into the needs and wants of millennials*, four experts in their respective fields were asked what millennials really want. The article by Kurt Stephan appeared in the March 2016 issue of Dealer Marketing Magazine, and serves as a "teaching moment" for US auto dealerships. Topics include exploring and combating millennial stereotypes, the methods of communication desired by the generation, current auto trends, and addressing the specific financing challenges millennials bring to auto dealers. "[The current] supersonic rate of communication makes millennials — and a lot of today's car buyers — different from previous generations in that they expect faster, more efficient service in every aspect of car buying, from researching to buying to service," stated Dan Moore, Senior Director of Digital Strategy, VinSolutions.

A recent unique study was conducted for CareCredit about how people purchase healthcare services and related products including dentistry, veterinary services, hearing health, vision care and cosmetic procedures. In an online survey, patients who had made an elective healthcare purchase in the past 12 months (or were likely to do so soon), were asked a series of questions resulting in some interesting findings that could help medical service providers retain more business and potentially grow their current practices.

It is often said that "success is gauged by the company you keep" and the same can be said of auto aftermarket retailers in a global economy where stiff competition encourages mutually beneficial relationships with auto dealerships. The spotlight shines on three outstanding auto aftermarket retailers that specialize in servicing one make of vehicle. This exclusive commitment adds a degree of separation between them and parts houses targeting dozens if not hundreds of auto types. It also creates sensational opportunities for them to partner with like-minded dealerships and vice versa. The whole is certainly greater than the sum of the parts as these cooperative marketing efforts attract a broader consumer base to increase sales.

Membership in trade groups provides a type of safety in numbers that is achieved by being united with large numbers of people with similar business interests. With competition arising from every nook and cranny, GMs in the building materials industry can find professional security, increase sales and stay abreast of the latest trends by joining an association. CrossCheck reviewed a handful of representative orgs that support their membership bases while providing brief descriptions, links to upcoming conferences, and the means to join. We highly recommend seeking out and joining one in your region, so much so, that we wrote this successful article: Ten Reasons to Join an Association.

Helping service managers discover payment solutions for their auto dealerships is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. If I can address a dozen or so in one place, then I’ve increased the odds of finding personal satisfaction that many times. A recent meeting of the San Diego GM Retail Service Manager’s Club, a division of the New Car Dealers Association San Diego County, offered such an opportunity. A longtime proponent of trade associations, I wrote an article called "Ten Reasons to Join an Association" in 2012, explaining the numerous benefits (see inset).

Veterinarians who are owner-operators often lead a double life as they juggle the responsibilities of business management with their passion for helping pets. Some doctors embrace this dichotomy while others find the business side to be a chore, and there is a tendency to focus on medicine while putting out business fires if and when they get out of control. Even the best-made business plans can be placed on the back burner while focusing on caregiving. Adding office staff, outsourcing functions such as accounting services, or purchasing management software may free up some time, but nevertheless, some critical business activities remain untouched or unfinished for weeks, months or years on end.

There’s a need — almost a demand — in today’s global economy for blue- and white-collar workers to remain competitive by reinventing themselves one or more times during the course of their careers. For example, marketing communications practitioners must be skilled in writing, computer and mobile apps, web design, social media, e-commerce and graphic design to keep up with the winds of change. College programs cover the basics, but individuals are obligated to continue their education long after the graduation ceremony. Employees and employers in other industries, and even the mega industries themselves, are similarly challenged. Auto mechanics must study the sophisticated on-board technologies loaded into late-model vehicles; flooring companies need to stay on top of a growing selection of tile, carpet, laminate and wood products; and the tech industry is driven 24/7 to remain relevant.

The support group started right on time. About halfway through, apprehensively, I made my way to the podium. I felt the calling and it was my turn to confess. With all eyes on me, the walk down the middle aisle seemed miles long. I stood behind the podium, straightened the microphone, cleared my voice more than once, grabbed both sides of the podium, and gave in a higher power. "I'm a collector," I warbled. What a relief to have been on the first step to becoming a recovering collector. With that said, let the record reflect that I am not a hoarder!