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New software simplifies vehicle dealer data,
improves reporting accountability

The Motor Vehicles Division wanted a database –driven solution to track public requests about automobile dealers. What it got was a software solution that far exceeded expectations.

A coalition of DMV and Enterprise Technology Services representatives gathered this week to put the finishing touches on a three-month project that streamlines interaction between ITD and auto dealers.

The quest for a new software solution was, in part, a response by Idaho Legislators and the governor’s office to improve efficiency and accountability. Information ITD administrators requested wasn’t immediately available, so DMV began looking for a new database system.

“The DMV Registration/Titles business unit identified a need to procure a software tool that tracks dealer-related issues and provides feedback associated with automobile dealerships, state regulations and licensing requirements,” explains project manager Linda Ford.

“The Everest system has already enhanced the efficiency of the department by improving the accuracy of dealership information, streamlining day-to-day processes and providing a central repository of all dealership information,” Ford explains.

The most common issues include failure to provide a vehicle title within 30 days, warranty plans and mechanical concerns, failure to disclose salvage/branded title vehicles and vehicle flooring (temporary financing for dealers).

Idaho has about 1,225 licensed new and used car dealers, with a relatively steady turnover (closures and openings) of about 65 dealers annually. The number of complaints ITD’s nine motor vehicle investigators process ranges from about 50-60 to as many as 187 received in 2008, explains supervisor Daryl Marler.

The new system does far more than addressing public inquiries and concerns about Idaho auto dealers, Ford explains. It tracks enforcement actions against dealers, automates correspondence with dealers, streamlines processes and generates reports for management and results in greater efficiency and improved work flow.

Information that previously resided in three or four locations, now will be consolidated into one, easy to access repository.

Members of the Everest Project core team included Peggy Anderson, Sharron Griffin and Marler. They were responsible for preparing dealer data for integration into the system and helped fine-tune Everest and associated data, Ford explains.

ETS representatives also involved in the process included Randi Bristol, Greg Christensen, Tom Martin and Dave Fulton.

Team members credited Ford for pulling the project together so quickly. She is an ETS project manager assigned full time to the Division of Motor Vehicles.