AUSTIN – IAS, a provider of F&I aftermarket programs to automobile dealerships, is releasing a tablet based software program called SmartPad, the newest addition to the SmartDealerProducts software suite.

SmartPad shortens the F&I process and creates sales opportunities by utilizing the electronic tablet to gather and present a customizable array of information while the customer is preparing to be transitioned from sales to F&I.

SmartPad goes beyond the typical survey and interview by using dynamic video and multimedia presentations to engage the customer in additional sales opportunities once they are turned over to F&I.

Results of SmartPad presentations that include interview or survey sequences can be emailed or sent via text in real-time to upper level management within the dealership while the customer is still in the store to address any negative feedback.

Simultaneously, results are sent to the F&I department who will, in turn, be better equipped to present the customer with a menu or alleviate a negative situation.

“SmartPad can be utilized as a simple survey but also has the capability of presenting and gathering information in an engaging way that has never before been done in F&I,” said Matt Nowicki, director of information technology for IAS.

“In today’s challenging landscape, every sale matters and real-time information can be used to save deals. For example, SmartPad can alert the General Manager of a bad experience who can immediately rectify the situation. It can turn a negative into a positive experience for the consumer.”

SmartPad configuration is web-based, meaning that dealers can adjust presentations on an as-needed basis and their tablets can be updated immediately. The software will run on popular tablets, including the Apple iPad, most Google Android tablets, and the Blackberry Playbook.

“SmartPad is game-changing software that takes advantage of the innovative features of the tablet device,” said Bob Corbin, president and CEO of IAS. "We immediately saw the incredible potential of tablet devices to address the needs of car dealerships who value interactive, dynamic analytics delivered with a few screen taps. We think this is just the beginning of an important category that can not be underestimated.”

SmartPad is currently concluding beta testing in several dealerships nationwide and is available immediately.