Monroe’s Busiest Collision Repair Shop Avoids System Crashes With Network Management From Tech Experts
If you’ve ever experienced an automobile accident, you know how stressful and, at times, confusing the repair process can be. Paul and Tammi VanAken, the owners of Paul’s Quality Collision, have built their business around making the repair experience as efficient and pain-free as possible.
Paul started his auto and light truck repair business in 1982, and moved to a new, highly efficient, professional
designed facility on South Telegraph Road in 1991, where the business continues today. The repair shop is equipped with the state of the art tools and equipment needed to repair today’s modern vehicles to better than factory condition.
Chris Sherwood, Paul’s Quality Collision’s appraiser, uses a computerized estimating and quoting system to ensure customer’s vehicles are repaired correctly and promptly. |
“Computers have been essential in our administrative and production systems for nearly twenty years,” explained Paul. “We use them in production for damage analysis, specifications and paint mixing. In the office, we use computers for all sorts of management tasks, communications, documentation and data storage.”
The company relies heavily on their network for email and the Internet.
Paul explained: “We receive assignments, upload estimates, invoices and photos for our insurance and fleet customers. Much of our communication and technical resources are Internet based.”
Paul’s network consists of a file server running Windows 2003 Server and various desktop and laptop computers for staff use. A wireless network allows Paul and his staff to work in any part of the building and still have access to the network and the Internet.
According to Paul, one of the biggest business benefits that his business experiences in working with Tech Experts is dependability. “We know when we need help that someone who is knowledgeable and experienced will be on site
promptly.”
Paul continued, “One time, when our electricity went out and our battery backup failed, Tech Experts brought down a generator so our office could continue working. Now that’s going above and beyond!”
For more information about Paul’s Quality Collision, visit their website at http://www.paulsqualitycollision.com/, or call 734-242-7750.
Dual Monitors Helps Insurance Agency Boost Productivity
When Robert Leski and Timothy Wittman, owners of the Leski Insurance Agency, decided to upgrade their computer systems last year, they were looking for ways to improve staff productivity and enhance their customer service functions.
After evaluating their workflow, Tech Experts recommended they employ a dual monitor solution as part of the agency’s technology upgrade.
Timothy Wittman, co-owner of Leski Insurance Agency, fi nds working with dual monitors improves effi ciency and customer service. He will typically have the ACT Contact Management System running on one screen, and use the second for entering data from ACT into web forms andWord documents. |
Leski Agency uses an ACT! contact management system to keep track of all of their client’s policies and information.
When customer service representatives (CSRs) are quoting new business, or changes to customer’s existing policies, they will frequently need to refer to the information in ACT! in order to complete the quoting or change forms.
Before the dual monitor solution, the CSRs would have to toggle back and forth between screens. Now, ACT! remains active on one screen while the quote or policy change form is active on the other screen.
“We needed a way to streamline our customer service practices,” commented Tim, one of the agency’s co-owners. “Tech Experts showed us a dual monitor system that lets our employees look up information faster.”
The dual monitor solution was part of a larger technology refresh project the agency undertook last year. As part of the upgrade, Leski invested in a new, faster IBM eServer to store their customer data, documents and accounting information.
The agency also upgraded the staff computers to new Lenovo compact workstation computers. The compact workstation computers are about the size of a box of cereal.
“We really like working with Tech Experts,” Tim continued. “Technology changes every day, and it has become increasingly harder or small business owners to manage their computer systems. With the Tech Experts team taking care of our technology, I can focus on what our agency does best - taking great care of our clients.”
Leski Insurance Agency was founded in 1980 by Robert Leski, a now retired Monroe County Community College professor. The agency writes general lines property and casualty insurance, and specializes in the insurance needs of educators through the MEEMIC insurance company.
Podiatric Practice Steps Into The Future With EMR System
Electronic Medical Records System Allows Doctors Real Time Access To Patient Data And X-Rays
When a local podiatry office needed an upgrade to their server and network, they looked to Technology Experts to provide the advice and support they needed to make a smooth transition.
Amanda Wilkinson, medical assistant, reviews a patient x-ray using Foot and Foot & Ankle Specialists Ankle Specialists’ electronic x-ray system. Doctors and staff can review patient x-rays using their tablet PCs and the EMR software. |
Dr. Scott Hughes founded Foot and Ankle Specialists in Monroe in 1995, and opened a second office in Lambertville in 1997. The practice provides comprehensive care of all foot and ankle disorders. Their state of the art offices provide on-site x-rays, peripheral arterial disease (PAD) testing, diagnostic ultrasound and physical therapy. Lynn Johnson is the practice’s busy office manager.
“Our computers are vital to our daily operations,” explained Lynn. “All of our patient records are located on an electronic medical records (EMR) system, so we’re not able to review patient records without the network being functional at all times.”
The EMR system in use at Foot and Ankle Specialists lets both offices schedule patients, update information, and process billing and collection activities in real time. The office receptionists use the network and the Internet to verify insurance benefits and obtain authorization for services.“Without our system being fully functional on a daily basis,” continued Lynn, “we wouldn’t be
able to service our patients as efficiently.”
Tech Experts installed an IBM server running Microsoft Windows Server 2003. The system is configured for data redundancy and tape backup to protect client files. The Lambertville office connects to the Monroe office via a secure Internet connection, using Microsoft Windows Terminal Server.
Doctors and professional staff use Lenovo ThinkPad tablet PCs on a secure wireless network to retrieve and update patient data in real time using the EMR system. Doctors can fax prescriptions directly to a pharmacy from their tablet computers using the system’s fax server.
“During our conversion to the EMR system, Tech Experts was vital in helping with a smooth transition,” said Lynn. “The people at Tech Experts are all very personable. Whenever I have a problem they understand my urgency.”
Lynn concluded: “One of the biggest benefits to working with Tech Experts is that our systems are up to date and the network runs with minimal downtime. The system is faster and more efficient than it has ever been in the past.”
Monroe Area Federal Credit Union Says: “Tech Experts, You’re Our Guardian Angels!”
Monroe Area Federal Credit Union (MAFCU) has been a part of the Monroe community since 1948. The Credit Union was originally organized to service Kelsey Hayes employees, then the Ford Motor Company plant, and now services the entire Monroe Community. MAFCU is a non-profit, federally insured financial institution, owned by its members. Susan Bayer is the Credit Union’s very busy General Manager.
“In our business, we couldn’t operate without computers and the Internet,” said Sue. “We depend on them daily. There’s so much now that we have to do over the Internet, and through e-mails, that our systems have to be up and running all the time.”
Cassandra Velasquez, Acccounting Supervisor assists a member using her Lenovo workstation computer. The credit union processes hundreds of transactions a day, and counts on Tech Experts to keep their network up and running. |
The Credit Union uses ten workstation computers on a Microsoft Windows 2003 network. There are two servers that handle financial transactions and file storage for information the Credit Union employees work on day to day. “We use Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook every day,” explained Sue. “We have 10 PCs in our office, and whether it’s to type letters, send e-mails, or attend training webinars , our PCs have to be able to perform at top speed.”.
Sue said that one of the key advantages MAFCU has experienced since working with Tech Experts is super fast response time. “We had a crisis come up during the holiday season,” Sue explained, “and without any hesitation, in the blink of an eye, I had a tech listening to my concerns and calming down the staff.”
Sue explained: “I live by my PDA and my Outlook. On December 30, my Outlook file crashed. This was year-end for the Credit Union, and my Outlook is my personal secretary. My appointments, my contacts, and my daily work tasks along with personal appointments are stored in my Outlook. I gave Tech Experts a call, and explained the situation. They had a tech follow up with us, and sent a technician to our rescue – on New Year’s Eve Day! Tech Experts has become our ‘Guardian Angels!’”
“We like that the onsite technicians aren’t afraid to share their knowledge, and that they take the time to explain what they’re doing to each PC in layman’s terms,” Sue continued. “Working with Tech Experts has given the Credit Union staff peace of mind. Our computers are one less thing we have to worry about, because we know Tech Experts will be there if we need help.”
For more information about MAFCU, call (734) 243-5700, or visit them on the web at: http://www.monroeareafcu.com/.
Hassett Title Counts On Tech Experts To Keep Their Network Problem-Free
For Bill, Dan and Doug Hassett, the principals of Hassett Title Company Inc., downtime is a “killer.” Their title and real estate closing company relies on their computer network to be up and running.
Marji Terry of Hassett Title Company examines title records on her new Lenovo workstation computer. |
“Every aspect of our business is computerized,” explained Doug Hassett. “We use our network to examine the register of deeds records online. Our computers are vital in preparing title and closing documents, and let us complete every transaction with ease and confidence.”
Hassett Title Company is a family-owned and operated full service title and escrow agent, founded by Bill Hassett in 1988. The company has offices in the heart of downtown Monroe at 33 East Front Street. Hassett Title is an agent for Stewart Title Guaranty Company.
“We have a responsibility to provide not only the fastest, but the most accurate and complete title and closing service to our clients,” said Doug. “Our clients deserve the best.”
Tech Experts recently upgraded the computers at Hassett Title to include several new Lenovo workstation computers, and assisted in the integration of a new multi-function copier/printer/scanner into the company’s network. Hassett Title also hosts it’s e-mail and web site services with Tech Experts.
“One of the biggest business benefits we’ve realized in working with Tech Experts is near constant uptime,” Doug continued. “Any time we have a repair or upgrade, the technicians make sure we stay up and running. Tech Experts understands we can’t have downtime.”
Hassett Title takes advantage of Tech Experts’ monthly systems check service. Every month, a Tech Experts engineer visits Hassett Title’s offices to make sure the computers, server and network are functioning properly, that all antivirus software is updated, all Windows updates are current, and handle any issues any of the staff are having with their computers
“Freeing us from the worry and maintenance of our network lets us focus on the needs of our clients,” explained Doug. “Tom Fox and Bob Saylors have been working with us for years. They know what we need and understand our needs when we express ourselves in a non-tech savvy way.”
For more information about Hassett Title’s services, contact them at (734) 242-9393, or visit their website: www.HassettTitle.com.
Veterinary Clinic Embraces Technology, Provides Award Winning Care To Patients
Perrysburg Animal Care, in Perrysburg, Ohio, was founded by Dr. Wayne North in 1978 with a focus on quality veterinary care throughout the life of a family’s pet. As the practice has grown over the years, Dr. North has embraced technology as a way to provide award winning care for his patients and their owners.
“We use our computers and network in every aspect of our practice,” explained Polly Fitzwater, Perrysburg Animal Care’s office manager. “We are a full electronic charting facility.
Perrysburg Animal Care, located in a beautiful, modern facility in Perrysburg, Ohio, offers clients routine preventive care for young, healthy pets; early detection and treatment of disease as pets age; and complete medical and surgical care as necessary during a pet’s lifetime. |
Each examination room has a tablet computer, and our doctors and technicians all enter patient information at the time of service.”
The veterinary office relies on a Windows Server 2003 network, combined with several desktop computers for reception and billing. Tablet PC’s are integrated via a high speed wireless network, which lets staff move between patients with ease.
High speed Internet access with firewall protection lets the staff and doctors conduct research and look up information quickly. Complete medical records charting is provided by a specialized line of business application, and the office uses Quickbooks for accounting and payroll.
“Tech Experts provides us with efficient and expedient service,” explained Polly, “which is why we’d never be tempted to search for a new service company. The level of expertise the technicians have and their friendly, professional manner couldn’t be duplicated by another firm.”
“The service technicians ‘blend in’ with our busy office,” continued Polly. “They don’t interrupt our work and get things done fast. Tech Experts keeps us humming!”
For more information about Perrysburg Animal Care, call 419-874-8974, or www.TheBestVet.com.
Tech Experts Keeps The Network Running For Stewart Road Christian Ministries Center
Stewart Road Christian Ministries Center, originally known as the Monroe Church of God, has been in Monroe since 1940. As the church has grown, it has embraced technology as a way to expand its ministry.
In 1996, the church added on to its facility at 1199 Stewart Road with a new sanctuary, nursery and offices. The church offers a weekly food closet, counseling services as well as many other ministries.
Tech Experts has worked with Stewart Road CMC to enhance and maintain the Microsoft Windows network that is used to run the business operations of the church.
“All of our accounting and church management records are maintained on our network,” explained Administrative Pastor Dawn Bosworth. “Our chuch service song lyrics are kept on the computer and interact with the slide projectors.”
Pastor Sam Luke ministers to thousands of people weekly in the church and on television, radio and computer broadcasts. |
Stewart Road CMC uses a mix of Windows-based computers, as well as a Microsoft Windows 2003 server for file and data storage. A unique application at the church is an combination of hardware and software called “Phone Tree” which allows Pastor Sam Luke to record inspirational messages to the congregation and call congregants on the telephone to deliver the message or worship reminder. Phone Tree runs on the church’s server.
“We minister to thousands of people weekly,” Pastor Dawn continued, “including those who enter our sanctuary on Sundays and Wednesdays, or who watch and listen on television or over the Internet.”
When asked what she liked most about working with the Tech Experts service team, Pastor Dawn said response time and reliability were most important. “The staff at Tech Experts is easy to work with, and very friendly. The service technicians are reliable, and the response time is quick. When an issue is a crisis to me, the team at Tech Experts takes it seriously.”
She concluded: “I could not keep my computer network up and running without your team!”
Powerhouse Gym Keeps Their Computers in Tip Top Shape With Tech Experts’ Monitoring & Off-site Backup Service
Richard and Sharon Orndorf opened Powerhouse Gym in the Monroe Shopping Center in 1997. Since then, the business has steadily grown, now occupying the former Baisley grocery store.
The Orndorf’s purchased and renovated the building to provide their members with more than 15,000 square feet of state of the art muscle building, cardio equipment and free weights. The gym offers personal trainers for circuit training, weight lifting, and counseling. A fruit and juice bar offers quick, healthy treats for gym clients.
Powerhouse owner Sharon Orndorf helps a member with the check in process. The Gym uses Lenovo ThinkCentre workstations and an IBM xSeries server for the membership management system. |
Tech Experts recently worked with Powerhouse to upgrade their company’s network, servers and workstations, and we asked Sharon to talk about the experience.
“Our business is totally reliant on computer technology,” explained Sharon. “We utilize our computer system for point of sale and complete client profiles for billing and history purposes. If our system is down we are at a total shutdown of operations.”
Powerhouse upgraded their server to an IBM xSeries 3200 machine, running Microsoft Windows Small Business Server. Their proprietary member management software relies on Microsoft SQL server for it’s database. The new workstations are Lenovo ThinkCentre desktop computers, all optimized for speed and reliability.
Sharon continued: “One of the advantages to working with Tech Experts is that the company is available 24/7. Their remote monitoring and off-site backup service helps eliminate computer problems before they escalate into something major.”
Tech Experts monitors Powerhouse’s server 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and is immediately notified if there is a problem with the Gym’s server or network. Tickets are automatically generated and problems resolved, many times before Powerhouse’s staff is even aware there was an issue. This let’s Richard and Sharon concentrate on running their business, instead of worrying about their computers and network.
“Working with Technology Experts definitely has contributed to the success of our business,” Sharon explained. “We rely on the expertise of Tech Experts to keep us in the forefront of our business in this competitive market.”
Tech Experts Keeps The Motor Running For Friendly Ford
In 1983, Tom Shankie purchased the Ford franchise located on South Monroe Street, and over the past 25 years he, his family, and the staff at the dealership have sold many vehicles, serviced vehicles and supported the community. In 2002, having outgrown the Monroe Street facility, Friendly Ford built a new, state of the art dealership on North Telegraph Road.
The company has seen many changes in the auto industry, and computerization of the dealership is one of them. We talked with Nicole Ernst, vice-president of the dealership, about how the company uses computers and the business benefits they’ve experienced since choosing Tech Experts for their computer and network services.
 Melissa Smith and Sheila Johnston work the parts counter at Friendly Ford, using their new IBM workstation computers. |
“We use our computers to determine what the customer’s payments will be for financing or leasing the car, we also input all customer information so that all of the customer’s paper work prints out correctly with their information,” explained Nicole. “We use the computers to communicate with the financing institutions, to manage customer follow-up after the sale, and to respond to Internet customers.”
Tech Experts installed a Microsoft Small Business Server network and IBM/Lenovo workstations for each of the dealership’s employees. Staff have access to the Internet for work related browsing and access to the dealership’s management software .
“We also use the network in the service department,” continued Nicole. “Customer information can be easily recalled if they have done business with us before. The service advisor can simply type the customer’s concerns into the computer and, while working on the vehicle the mechanic can communicate with the advisor about repairs.”
“When we decided to purchase our own hardware and instead of employing an “IT” person to contract an outside company to provide maintenance and service for that hardware I called many different places,” Nicole explained. “I started in the phone book and called a few companies that were referred to me.”
“I really hate to say that reducing our expenses is a “value added” service, but as we experience some of the worst economic times in history it does tend to stand out in one’s mind,” Nicole explained. “Tech Experts came in with a full bound proposal with at least three different options for me, the other company walked in with one sheet of paper with a large number on it.”
“I felt that Tech Experts did an excellent job listening to me when they made their first visit. They came back with a proposal that was well thought out, they knew I had expenditure concerns , and they kept that in mind when putting together all of my options.”
“They also knew that I was going to need a lot of assistance with getting this started and completed and a company that would follow up with good support after the installation. They went above and beyond, for example: when I stated that I used a management system for all of the dealership operations, they asked who it was and asked for a phone number to contact someone for more information and to ask their own questions. The other company didn’t even ask who we used or what the whole system was about or why we needed it.”
Nicole concluded, “Tech Experts truly cares about each one of their clients. They established a personal working relationship me because that is what I needed. They understand that it is important for me to not have to know ever working aspect of my computer system so that I can concentrate my efforts towards taking care of my customers.”
Tech Experts Keeps The Sun Shining For Electrik Beach
If the winter weather has you missing your tan, chances are you’d love visiting Electrik Beach, Monroe and Toledo’s premier chain of tanning salons.
Since we last profiled Electrik Beach, the company has added two new locations in Toledo, and updated their computers at all four of their stores. Company president Dennis Asmar keeps his fingers on the pulse of the company’s operations by using state of the art computer and network technology from Tech Experts.
Electrik Beach’s new Laskey location features an ultra-chic design, the highest quality tanning equipment, and computers and servers from IBM and Tech Experts. |
“You can go into any of our four locations and tan,” explained Dennis, “ and our staff is able to review your account to make sure you receive the best service possible.”
Being able to use any of Electrik Beach’s facilities is accomplished through the company’s proprietary tanning management software. Using secure Internet connections, each store communicates with the central server, keeping each customer’s account information up to date.
The company recently upgraded all of their servers and workstations to the latest high speed equipment available from IBM. The company’s servers have super fast and highly redundant RAID 5 arrays, using drives that operate at 10,000 rpms. The speed difference between the old system and the new is remarkable.
“Fifteen or twenty seconds doesn’t sound like a lot of time to wait,” continued Dennis, “but when you have several clients waiting, it can seem like an eternity. With our new systems from Tech Experts, our client wait time has gone way down, while our customer service has gone way up.”
Downtime just isn’t an option for Electrik Beach, so Dennis opted for Tech Experts’ “Experts Total Support” service for the salons. With Experts Total Support, all of the servers, workstations and connectivity equipment are monitored for problems 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As soon as a problem is detected, a ticket is raised, and it is immediately checked.
“Before hiring Tech Experts, our network would sometimes go down, run slow, and we’d sometimes run into just weird problems we couldn’t figure out,” said Dennis. “Since signing up on their support plan, we haven’t had any network problems. I’m VERY glad we hired these guys to support our systems.”