Confirmation of the key role of data standards in modern commerce continues to come from across the spectrum. I just found an insightful article about how vital data standards are in the car repair and maintenance world.
According to Bob Moore, auto repair shops don't just rely on the internet for parts ordering. They also use the web for research and product comparison. To compare prices and features, you need standard data definitions.
There's a real urgency to this because the repair folks aren't just trying to improve efficiency for its own sake. They've got customers standing in front of them who have already done their own research. If repairers are not at least on the same page – and hopefully a couple of chapters ahead – they're going to lose out. You can't just phone a bunch of suppliers and get back to the customer with a quote. You've got to respond in real time, and you've got to be able to explain all the solutions you've rejected. Insurance Brokers take note!
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