Automaker taps i2 for solution to improve aftermarket parts management, boost customer service, reduce inventory costs
Dallas — September 20, 2004 — Kia Motors America has tapped software company i2 for a service parts management solution as the auto company seeks to improve its aftermarket parts management with a goal of enhancing customer service and reducing dealer inventory costs.
The U.S. sales, marketing and service division of Kia Motors Corporation, Kia Motors America will use i2 Service Parts Management (SPM), designed to enable enterprises to maximize the utilization of parts, people, budgets and facilities so that they can attain key performance objectives, such as high customer service, low operating costs and improved profitability.
"By establishing an IT infrastructure that allows flexibility and growth, Kia aims to not only react much faster but be able to proactively anticipate problems before they occur," said Kent Barr, director of information technology for Kia.
"We feel that the Kia Service Parts Initiative will continue our focus on enhancing our customer experience and satisfaction," added Kia Motors America President and CEO Peter M. Butterfield.
By selecting i2, Kia joins a group of companies in the automotive and airline industries already using i2 SPM to improve customer service, optimize aftermarket service networks and reduce dealer inventory costs, the solution provider said.
"In the current business environment, industry leaders are leveraging best practices in service and aftermarket parts management to achieve higher margins, enhance customer service levels and increase customer loyalty," said i2 CEO Sanjiv Sidhu. "Kia has smartly turned to technology to increase the efficiency of its organization."
