More Automotive CRM - Solution for DNC Compliance

Yesterday I wrote in this space about dual press releases that arrived from two companies selling competing CRM products for automobile dealers. (See "CRM Demolition Derby" from yesterday.)

Just today we received another release from yet another company providing CRM products (focused on calling solutions, in the case of this provider) for the same auto dealer segment:

CallCommand Provides Free Turnkey DNC/OFAC Solution to All US Chrysler Group and Honda Dealers

I have to wonder whether these are all simply "me-too" publicity efforts or whether there's something seasonal going on in the automotive space -- I do see from the CallCommand release that there is a NADA event going on in New Orleans starting tomorrow, so maybe that's the incentive.

The free CallScan Lite from CallCommand is designed to help auto dealers comply with Do Not Call requirements. Here's how the company describes its core product:

"CallStream(TM), CallCommand's core product, is a revolutionary, web-based personalized calling system designed to provide superior voice messaging to cell phones, land phones and other devices. Combining the latest, most innovative telecom and internet technologies, CallStream provides for quick, reliable execution of targeted communications."

I was also interested to see that CallCommand offers what seems to be a Web-based emergency broadcast system for communities:

"CommunitySafe, which enlists CallCommand's newly developed emergency broadcast technology, provides communities with a unique new tool to help resolve any community perception issues create safer communities and build top of mind awareness. It is an instant alert and communication system that allows the dissemination of vital information to citizens quickly and effectively. This unique communication tool simultaneously provides any organization with a more cost-effective and timelier way to communicate to their patrons. www.communitysafe.us."

This is an intriguing idea -- however, at the CommunitySafe Web site there's no information about how to sign up for the service, and no working response mechanism to send in an inquiry.

AB -- 1/28/05