Automakers in India have commenced online bookings and service schedules in view of the coronavirus pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic that struck the world from earlier this year has changed the way of doing many things, which was otherwise taken as standard. Behaviour patterns have changed and people are no longer comfortable in close proximity of others. Social distancing, use of sanitizers and washing of hands frequently is the new norm and wearing of face masks is the new garb.
Coronavirus has changed the way people conduct their businesses. Work-from-Home is being followed by most offices while other businesses and places of work are allowing a small percentage of workforce to come in on rotation on a daily basis.
The car and bike buying experience has also changed drastically. Consumers are wary of walking into company showrooms and dealerships to make their choices. This has given rise to the online booking process and a particular Suzuki dealership in Bengaluru has initiated the self booking process.
Benefits of Self Booking Process
One of the largest Suzuki Two Wheeler dealer in India, NineStar Suzuki has launched an innovative system to help their customers in these times of Corona virus. Owners of Suzuki Two Wheelers like Gixxer, Intruder, Burgman, Access, etc; can make self booking appointment for getting their vehicle serviced. This can be done online.
This process of booking keeps the customer safe. It allows for customer inflow in a spaced out manners. Staff can deal with each customer giving each buyer sufficient time to make their choices. This process helps in arresting the spread of COVID-19. It was noted that 36 percent of bookings were made outside of office hours. Below is a short video explaining the self-booking process.
NineStar Suzuki let their customers chose the date and time of arrival and choice of their service centers. The customer gets a Web link to make a booking via a text and/or whatsapp message. The customer just has to click on the link, punch in the vehicle number and choose the date and time slot as per his convenience. This can be done at any time of the day or night.
Customers say it’s huge advantage and they don’t have to call or be nervous about the rush at the dealership as they can just open the link and check the available slots anytime. The event can be added to the customer’s calendar as well. Once the booking is made the customer gets 2-3 reminders via email and SMS before the actual booking time. Ninestar Suzuki has also given a QR code for future services to their customers.
Customers are extremely happy with the new process introduced by Ninestar Suzuki and are elated that they don’t come in contact with a lot of customers when they come for service. “The New booking system is excellent, hassle free and Very handy. Sends detailed confirmation email with re-schedule or cancel options and contact of assigned service technician” Ms Sujitha M. This is just the first step towards a completely contacts less dropping of vehicle for service, we envisage a time where the entire process of recording the repairs and estimation can be done online” says Mr Dharma Teja G, CEO & MD of Ninestar Suzuki.
