Ford Motor Company has chosen Reynolds and Reynolds Company to deliver Internet integration services to help Ford reach its goal of having all Ford dealerships to have high-speed Internet access by the end of 2003.
As Ford shifts their business and communication applications to a Web-based platform, retailers are being encouraged to meet the necessary connectivity requirements. Through the FORDSTAR Next Generation Project Choice initiative, Reynolds is providing dealers with a solution that integrates their dealership network infrastructure with high-speed Internet connectivity.
“By collaborating with Ford, we are able to provide Ford and Lincoln Mercury retailers with access to quick, flexible and effective Internet integration services,” said Jim Aten, vice president, Reynolds Networking Services. “Our expert networking professionals work individually with retailers to recommend a custom solution that not only addresses their current needs, but also gives their dealership flexibility for future growth.”
To assist its retailers, Ford established a Web site and technical consultant service to provide dealerships with high-speed Internet connectivity options available in their area. The primary goal of Project Choice is to provide dealers with access to an array of Internet and integration services that are guaranteed to meet or exceed Ford’s recommendations. Ford Motor Company has teamed with Reynolds to bring dealers the most customized, efficient service for their particular business communication needs.
As part of the agreement, Reynolds is providing Project Choice Internet Integration Services. A one-time consulting engagement, the solution allows dealerships to integrate a third party Internet Service Provider (ISP) with their Reynolds system and networked PCs.
Project Choice manages and monitors all service vendors, and provides dealers with a resource to obtain consulting, quoting, provisioning and fulfillment. As part of Project Choice, dealers benefit from volume pricing and pre-approved solutions and vendors. Project Choice also keeps them abreast of future Ford applications and recommendations as they become available.
Reynolds and Reynolds provides integrated solutions to help automotive retailers manage change and improve their profitability. The company’s product, service and training solutions include retail and enterprise management systems, networking and support, e-business applications, Web services, learning and consulting services, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solutions, data management and integration, and leasing services.
