Repair Shops & Shop Management Systems

A recent IMR survey conducted in May of 2025, analyzing responses from independent repair shops, sheds light on the most valued features of shop management systems (SMS) and reveals how technology is shaping operational efficiency in the automotive aftermarket.

Key Findings

The survey highlights six core categories driving SMS satisfaction, with percentages reflecting most valued features :

Ease of Use (26.3%): Over a quarter of respondents praised the user-friendliness of SMS, noting its accessibility for all staff, from technicians to managers.

Speed and Efficiency (22.7%): More than one in five shops valued the quick loading times and time-saving capabilities, streamlining daily tasks.

Part Availability and Tracking (17.0%): Nearly one in six responses emphasized real-time inventory checks and order tracking, critical amid supply chain challenges.

Ordering and Supplier Management (15.0%): 15% appreciated the ability to order parts efficiently and manage multiple suppliers.

Reliability and Accuracy (10.5%): Over 10% highlighted the dependability of data, ensuring trust in system outputs.

Business Streamlining and Additional Features (8.5%): About one in twelve shops valued integration, customization, and features like invoicing or customer communication.

The dominance of Ease of Use and Speed and Efficiency (nearly 50% combined) underscores the need for intuitive, fast systems in busy repair environments. Part Availability and Tracking’s strong showing (17%) aligns with ongoing supply chain concerns.

As the automotive aftermarket evolves, SMS providers should be prioritizing user-friendly interfaces, rapid performance, and robust tracking features. These findings offer a roadmap for vendors to meet the growing demands of repair shops, ensuring they thrive in a competitive landscape.