Service Terminal decision resource · 05

The Service Terminal Pilot Playbook

A controlled method for measuring workflow impact before wider deployment

What this resource covers

Service Terminal is dealership fixed-operations workflow infrastructure that brings policy-controlled access to approved existing workstation sessions closer to service work. It is evaluated as an access layer, not as a DMS, repair-order platform, diagnostic system, or substitute for dealership employees.

Intended audienceService managers, fixed operations directors, corporate operations, dealership IT, and project sponsors
Operating problemHow should a dealership test a workflow technology pilot?
FormatResponsive digital document, 9 sections with 7 worksheets and tables, including an issue register and success criteria

Key takeaways

  • A useful pilot answers a defined operating question. It does not begin with an assumption that every recovered minute becomes labor revenue.
  • The smallest credible pilot usually serves a coherent workflow zone rather than the entire dealership. Placement should follow observed paths, not convenience or aesthetics alone.
  • Complete technical acceptance before employees depend on the terminal. The current implementation launches outbound RDP sessions to approved targets and may use outbound HTTPS for optional device services.
  • Collect the baseline with the same definitions, time windows, roles, and repair-order population that will be used during the pilot.

Inside the resource

  1. Pilot charter
  2. Scope and stakeholder responsibilities
  3. Technical review, installation, and orientation
  4. Baseline measurement
  5. Information-flow measurement plan
  6. Daily measurement and issue control
  7. Pilot timeline
  8. Issue register and success criteria
  9. Post-pilot decision

Existing dealership systems remain in place

This guide separates measured evidence, modeled estimates, examples, assumptions, and dealership-provided inputs. Where a figure is a dealership input or a modeled estimate rather than an observed result, the document says so at the point of use.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a pilot run?

Long enough to capture a representative baseline and operating period, including normal volume variation, without allowing scope to drift.

What should the dealership measure first?

Measure workstation-related movement, transition delays, terminal use, support events, and late-day backlog before assigning a financial value.

Can the pilot be removed?

Yes. The playbook includes a removal path, local-state handling, network cleanup, and a documented decision after review.

Related decision resources

Define a limited pilot with measurable success criteria

Work through it with verified dealership inputs, a named owner, and a bounded operating question.

Read the pilot playbookContact Service Terminal