19.08.2008

CUI keeps in the picture



Colors Unlimited International (CUI), the pan-european network of Spies Hecker independent refinishers has introduced an Estimator Development Programme, as part of the CUI Academy training portfolio. Intended to ensure that CUI Members are aware of current work provider initiatives and thinking, the programme commenced last year, with a benchmarking exercise that revealed the fact that many estimators had little specialised training for this important role. The estimator is, effectively, the bodyshop’s salesman. It’s essential that he prices the estimates correctly and that they meet customers’ expectations. It’s also essential that any work estimated is profitable for the bodyshop.

Craig Jones, Spies Hecker Customer Programmes Manager says “we are very conscious of how the estimator’s role has changed over the past five years. Most work providers have in-house engineers instead of field personnel. Around 75% of estimates are submitted electronically with images and yet most estimators have had no image training. Indeed the ATA estimator accreditation fails to assess the estimator’s ability to take a quality picture”.

CUI has organised specialised training for members to address this and the ability to produce quality images has been highlighted as an important issue. CUI has purchased a quantity of digital cameras for the bespoke training days to address and improve this area of industry oversight.



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