the network concept

[Brent Deines]

Let me clerify one thing about my last post. I realize that the original post in this thread did not start with the NWRA and I am not trying to steer (no pun intended) the conversation back to the NWRA. The tone just sounded to me like joining the NWRA was the same thing as joining a Harmon network, or was in some way endorsing networks. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Sorry if I misunderstood anyone's attentions and again, I don't mean to throw everyone that posted to this thread into one catagory. I realize that sometimes we all just need to let off a little steam, but with all it's faults, I really love the windshield repair business and get defensive when I read all the negativity.

[Scott Tyner]

Brent,

Couldn

[CrackedUp]

Why all the fuss over networks? Seems simple to me. Yes, there will be steering. Used to happen to me all the time. But even since I recorded a CSR's attempt at steering at steering one of my customers then complained to a network supervisor...then played them back the recording of their CSR steering my customer and now...it doesn't seem to happen anymore!!! Hmmm, wonder why? Do you suppose I've made my way on to their list of shops who are highlighted in some form on the CSR's computer screen to let them know not to mess with me anymore! LOL

[StarQuest]

CrackedUp,

Great idea!!! Maybe everytime we talk with a CSR representative for claim authorization we should first inform them that this call is being recorded and are they ok with that? Think I'll try it just to hear their response

[CrackedUp]

Hey StarQuest, I've heard of a guy who does just that. He says he gets a very humble reply when he tells them that!

[Brent Deines]

Great question Scott,

That has been suggested as an option, but I think that the majority of the reputable windshield repair manufacturing companies support the NWRA. The current president and vice president of the NWRA are both windshield repair manufacturers. Most of us do get along, and most of us are working together right now to some extent. But why reinvent the wheel? As I'm sure you know, there are no giant windshield repair manufacturers with millions of dollars to spend, so even if every windshield repair manufacturer got together, we would still need to turn to repair techs for support. I really want to see repair only techs be the ones running the organization, not those of us on the manufacturing end. With several positions opening up on the board, repair only interests could have complete control in no time at all. It took years of hard work to build the NWRA to what it is today, and it would take years of hard work if we started from scratch to build another organization.

That said, if the NWRA goes away, and I hope it doesn't, Delta Kits and other manufacturers will likely either start another organization, or support whatever organization evolves next. I don't think it is wise to shut out glass shops, insurance companies, networks, etc., but I am not on the board, so my vote doesn

[desertstars]

Many, if not most, and certainly not ALL replacement shops are involved with repair simply because it gives them an opportunity to bait and switch.

There; I've said it.

Wash out my mouth with soap.

A $2500 contribution by Harmon is pretty cheap under the circumstances.

I won't waste time relating the multitude of times I've repaired fleet and insurance company windshields when the customer was told repair was not an option.

One network in particular only requires that the member carry a 15% repair ratio to replacements when I know full well that the potential figure is nearer 65%.

Insurance companies on any board related to the repair industry?

Might as well suggest that they also set NAGS discounts and labor reimbursement for replacements.

Or, haven't they already?

Finally.

There is no question that the NWRA is good for the business.

If Delta is so adamant that we need not re-invent the wheel, than let the NWRA add a spoke by designating repair only members to an ad hoc committee whose only raison d'etre is to deal with the manufacturer-owned network issue.

And for those who feel it necessary to warn a network that a damage call is being recorded, that is like sticking a band-aid on a torn artery.

The only way to steer is to have control of the steering wheel yourself. Right now we are nothing more than a bunch of back-seat drivers.