Warranty Processing

[RKing]

Does anyone have a warranty administrator who processes for a multi store/franchise operation, and if so what are the pros and cons? We have a Chrysler and GM store, and are considering moving to one adminstrator instead of two. Any successes or failures out there?
Thanks

[jazdale]

I see no reason why an administrator can't learn another franchise's coding.

Sure the rejection rate may be a titch high during the learning curve, but soon enough, you'll understand the coding process to get claims paid.

The only thing that scares me, is the reduction in the number of people (in your case, one person) that knows how to code.
A vacation or an illness can create a mountain of frozen assets in no time.

I know you have several franchises (including import) Rich, have you considered just putting all administrators in a centralized office with plenty of cross-training?

[tsteidl]

I work at a multi-franchise, multi-store dealer group. We have 15 franchises located in 6 rooftops on 1 property. We have 3 warranty administrators. One handles Chevrolet, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru and Kia. She is located in 1 store. One handles VW, Audi, Mercedes, Jaguar, Porsche and Mitsubishi. She is located in 1 store. My wife handles Honda, Hyundai, Lexus and Saturn, which are in 4 different stores. Works well for us.

[RKing]

Jazdale,
Our long term goal is centralized service administration support with heavy emphasis on a service business development center, with plenty of cross training.

[msheri]

As an admin who has done combinations including GM, Chrysler, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Ford, Nissan, and BMW, I think it is safe to say that it can be done. The quality you get will depend on the skills of the individual. I would also be prepared for resistance from the current admin of the brand, who will be eliminated. That is, if the person is going to be eliminated. Putting all you eggs in one basket will limit your options if you do not do this carefully. Otherwise, a competitor's offer may put you in the position of a two to replace one hiring position in the future.