Maximizing fixed operations profitability is the aim of a new software integration announced Monday.

Auto/Mate Dealership Systems reported news of the integration of its dealership management system with SMI's DriveService and DriveSales solutions.

For auto dealers using both tools, the integration means that customer information updated in the DMS will be updated in SMI's customer communications.

"The key to a successful integration is for the dealer's data to be transferred instantly, securely and seamlessly between a DMS and a third-party solution provider," said Mike Esposito, president and chief executive of Auto/Mate Dealership Systems.

"Our Open/Mate platform makes it very easy and inexpensive for any third-party vendor to integrate with our DMS, resulting in more vendor choices and cost savings for dealers," he said.

SMI's products are designed to increase customer engagement and response, the company said, for higher closing rates on service recommendations in the fixed ops department.

Following an inspection report, personalized communications encourage customers to share their information, offer choices regarding their service recommendations and build trust between the customer and service advisor.

"Integration between our service solutions and a dealership's DMS makes both technologies more accessible," said Garrett Jockel, CEO of SMI. "Technology should never get in the way of maximizing fixed ops profitability; it should make it easier."

Auto/Mate's fixed ops module offers tools to help increase service department volume and streamline the repair order process.