Whose Talking
Micro Logic Software
Any information, experiences tall tales, or short tales for that matter regarding MicroLogic Associates' Logic Wash Software would be most interesting.
I am considering replacing the current, barely functioning WashLink software in my Full Serve operation.
Thank You!
Replies
Robert
I posted a similar question regarding these systems and it appears that the tried and true system for Full Service Washes is DRB. Hope you're washing/detailing lots of cars this weekend - the weather is purrrrrfect!
MicroLogic is a great product. I know Tommy Hoffman in NY is using it in their washes and had nothing but good things to say about it.
MicroLogic and ICS are solid. I have both. I'd rather use an Excel spreadsheet than give DRB another penny.
I have Micrologic in 2 tunnels and a lube. I have there tunnel controller and POS system in both. Ive been in the industry nearly 15 yrs and Ive used several popular companies. This is by far the best software Ive ever used. I dont work for Micrologic nor do I promote there software for money, this is an honest opinion based on my experiences with it. I would love to share info with anyone interested in it. I would recommend it to anyone.
I did end up buying the MicroLogic system and it has turned out to be an excellent investment. It has a great deal of solid functionality, reporting and capabilities...
The wireless equipment is first rate. I am still exploring and learning. It has been a relief to me and my staff!
I remember the good ole days when we kept a legal pad and put scratch marks for every type of wash for the day. At the end of the day, you "x" or "z" your cash register to reconcile your day's totals. Because of limited or non-existent on line-PLC's, you had wands on the driver's side and floor treadles to turn on the different functions of the wash. The prep guy had a toggle switch for the "hot wax". Our cashier had the extra duty of operating the blower and stopping the conveyor to prevent collisions. (That made cashiering exciting!)
I've been married to 3 computer systems: DRB, ICS and Washlink. There are weaknesses and strengths with each. The problem with all of them is that, without a lot of research, you usually don't find out their idiosyncrasies until the honeymoon is over. Then it's too late, too expensive to switch (most express setups cost over $100k)and you've married a witch with a horrible mother n law (that's like having poor support on weekends). Every installation I've had, has gone too quickly. Most give you one week or 5 days(not enough). The installer spends most of his time pulling wire, setting you up and very little time teaching you how to use their program or troubleshoot it. More time needs to be spent on labeling everything like it should be.
Just like you said Robert, "I am still exploring and learning"...the operators that find "happiness" are those that spend time exploring and learning their systems. It also helps to find other operators that have the same system and build your own, private support group. Finding the good in whatever system you have will help you over look the bad....
In full service washing, customer tracking features are the BEST. In express washing (for me), simplicity and reliability are the BEST.
With all systems be ready with emergency operation disks (software backups), spare hardware, surge protection, ups power, support phone #'s, patience and a legal pad....just in case. Whatever you do, don't let a down computer cause you to stop washing cars.
PS: Warning...after we've had to go into manual situations, because of system failures [waiting on parts, etc.], we monitor our money more closely for a while. Unfortunately, when employees learn there are other ways of washing a car, without the electronics functioning like it should, they become opportunistic. I've had to fire two staff for stealing, after we experienced some down time on computer equipment. Until that point, they had been model employees. Another reason, reliability is so important. Down time reveals weaknesses in your accounting systems and your staff.
Jim you brought back some good ole memories. We had the Old sherman blower with the top follower, rasied up and down with a gate valve, and "lites on" Flip the switch for hotwax and dont forget to shut it off screamed my grandfather! How things have changed! I remember asking the customer what wash they were getting to charge them at the booth. talk about honor system you can get away with that now! happy washing
is it normal for micrologic to charge $400 per quarter for the "check chart" to be all vehicle information current (car engine, oil filter, capacity, etc)?
That's high...I seem to remember DRB only charging that much once a year.
But it's been 5 years since I used their lube software.


Keith Feltner