The Service Configurator Module expands the functionality of Stolcad® Professional, allowing complete control over defining, calculating and managing the provided services. Using this tool, it is possible to configure any number of services with different pricing conditions, which allows for precise calculations and consequently higher earnings from services. Unlike standard solutions, the configurator introduces a range of advanced options that can be tailored to the specifics of every technology.
Service Configurator Module
- Modules
- Service Configurator Module
Service Configurator Module in Stolcad® Professional: defining and managing services for every technology
The key features of the service configurator
Defining any number of services
The Service Configurator Module significantly expands the standard functions of Stolcad® Professional in terms of creating and managing a service offer. The module allows the input, as well as the use of an unlimited number of services within the program, making it an extremely useful tool for companies offering a wide range of services. Due to the ability to precisely define each additional task within customer service, it becomes easier for companies to stand out from the competition.Assigning separate services to different profile technologies
In the configurator, every technology can have separate services assigned which are automatically included when creating offers. The services can be automatically exchanged if offers are recalculated for different technologies. This allows for dynamic pricing adjustments according to the order's specifications. For example, default services may vary depending on whether the production concerns windows made of PVC, wood or aluminium, as well as whether roller shutters are included.Various methods of calculating components of prices of services
The module offers extensive methods to accurately determine how services are priced. Individual services can be calculated based on the structure of the construction, such as its perimeter, area, number of elements (e.g. angles, arcs or more generally curved sections, etc.), as well as a monetary or percentage value, or even the distance in kilometres to the customer. This ensures that quotations are tailored to actual needs.
For complex constructions, such as a window + balcony, the module includes several possibilities for calculating common parts. The program also takes into account if the window includes the roller shutter. For roller shutters, it is possible to configure if the dimension is calculated with or without the roller box. The wide range of available options enables flexible price setting, taking into account the specific requirements of different structures.
Full control over changes in the offers
The module enables the choice of whether the services should be automatically recalculated when making changes to offers, or whether their value should remain unchanged even in the case of adding new items or changing technology. This functionality is especially useful when it is necessary to guarantee the customer a fixed price for specific services, regardless of any modifications to the offer.Pricing modification options
Regardless of how a service has been calculated in the offer, the program allows for entering its value as an amount. This is particularly useful when you agree with the customer on a specific service price, which may differ from the value resulting from the calculation. Additionally, it is possible to exclude such a service from automatic recalculations in a specific offer.Management of services in Dealer Professional programs
With the use of the Service Configurator Module the manufacturer can provide a ready set of services to their business partners working on Dealer Professional programs. Depending on the settings defined by the manufacturer, sales people may get the option to modify service prices or add new items.Easy update and synchronization of existing services
During the first launch of the module, all existing services will be automatically transferred and organized according to the new calculation rules. The program will group services from various technologies and integrate them in one place, significantly simplifying future management.Applying the Service Configurator Module in a real-life scenario
To better illustrate the possibilities of the Service Configurator Module, it is worth exploring how this tool works in practice. The below scenario shows how a manufacturer can effectively use the module in Stolcad® Professional tailoring the service offer to the specific needs of their customers. The services can be calculated based on the structure of the design (e.g. its dimensions, perimeter, area, number of angles, arcs, etc.), fixed amount or percentage value, or even distance in kilometres.
The example services that can be configured in various ways in the program:
Technical consultation- Sometimes a customer needs technical advice before purchasing windows. In the program, you can define such a consultation as a service, with the cost set as a fixed amount for an expert visit to take measurements on-site or to provide consultancy. The value of this consultation can be deducted from the total contract amount if the customer decides to order joinery in your company.
On-site visit for taking measurements- Companies have different approaches when it comes to on-site visits for measurements. Typically, if the site is located at a significant distance, the visit is charged extra. The Service Configurator Module allows defining such a service taking into account the distance in kilometres.
Window removal- In the case of replacing existing joinery, the question arises of who should carry out the removal of the old windows before installing the new ones. If the customer decides that your company should perform the removal, it is worth including this service in the offer. In the Service Configurator Module you can set a price for the removal, for example, based on the perimeter or area of the windows, or establish a fixed amount for this service.
Disposal of the removed windows- During the replacement of joinery at the customer's site, regardless of who performed the window removal, you can offer a service to transport the old windows for disposal. The cost of this service can be set as a fixed amount or based on the transportation distance.
Installation of windows (typical structures)- This is the most standard service. Companies usually determine the price of installation based on the perimeter, as larger windows require more labour and installation materials. Usually, the cost of installation also includes the expense of foam sealing the window. However, some companies configure foam sealing as a separate service in the Service Configurator Module. The module also allows differentiating traditional installation from warm installation, setting them as separate services with distinct unit prices. In practice, the installation of joinery with widths of 60, 70, or 80 mm differs in price per meter of installation. In this context, the Service Configurator Module shows another advantage. You can link the service price to the technology. The price per meter of installation may differ between e.g. a 60 mm technology and an 80 mm technology. This way, you no longer have to remember to change the unit price of installation when one offer is made for 60 mm joinery, and another for 80 mm. Even within a single offer, items from different technologies can be mixed. The program will automatically calculate the perimeters separately for every technology and apply appropriately configured unit prices for these technologies to calculate the service value.
Additional charges for the installation of windows in non-standard shapes- The cost of installing windows with untypical shapes (such as trapezoidal, arched, etc.) can be further adjusted by considering the number of angles and arcs, as their installation requires more effort. In the configurator, it is possible to add this option as an additional item. Such services will be included in offers only for windows with non-standard shapes, containing angles or arcs. You do not need to manually add these services, as the program will automatically include them based on properly configured data.
Installation of sills- This is an example of a service related to the installation of finishing elements of a window. The cost of installing internal and external sills can depend on the width of the window.
Finishing works- After the windows are installed, the installation area requires aesthetic finishing. This includes tasks such as plastering, smoothing or painting, which are collectively referred to as finishing works. In the Service Configurator Module, you can separate these tasks into individual stages (e.g. plastering, painting, cleaning) or combine them into a single item such as "finishing works". Additionally, the module allows you to introduce special options for finishing works in windows of untypical shapes, such as angled or arched windows, where the scope of work is significantly larger.
Adjustment or maintenance of windowsThere is a group of services that can be provided both during the warranty period, and after it when they are classified as separate items. In the Service Configurator Module, you can set a price depending on the specific activities, such as those related to window adjustment or maintenance. Depending on the type of work performed, this cost can be based on the number of windows, their perimeter or surface area.
Replacement of glass- The module allows you to set the cost of this service based on the window's surface area, as larger panes require more glass and more complex installation.
Replacement of fittings- In the configurator, you can define the cost of replacing hardware components such as handles or locks. This service can be charged per window, regardless of its size.
Replacement of gaskets- Similarly, the cost of this service can be calculated based on the window’s perimeter or assembly, as a larger perimeter requires more material and labour to complete the service.
Installation of sun protection systemsIn the module, you can set the cost of installing window sun protection systems (e.g. awnings, screens), which may increase with the window height, especially for large, vertical windows requiring larger protective systems.
Installation of blinds- The cost of installing blinds can be calculated based on the window's surface area, as larger structures require larger blinds.
Transportation of windows- Companies use various pricing systems for transport services. The most common approach is to base the transport cost on the delivery distance. In the Service Configurator Module, you can set the delivery cost of windows to the installation site as a rate per kilometre. The program, based on the entered number of kilometres, will automatically calculate the transport cost.
Service of window carrying- Carrying windows into a building, especially to higher floors, is a popular service offered by many companies. In the Service Configurator Module, you can set the cost of this service as a fixed amount or base it on the number of windows being carried.
Extended warranty or additional product insurance- An increasingly common practice is to offer extended warranties on products, which cover an additional protection period. Some companies also offer the option of additional product insurance. These types of services can also be configured in the Service Configurator Module. For example, you can set their cost as a percentage of the purchase price of the window.
The Service Configurator Module is a comprehensive tool that enables efficient management of services and their effective offering. The examples provided above do not cover all the possibilities of the configurator. We have presented commonly defined services based on the practices of various companies. It is worth noting that in today's market, the possibilities for competing on product price are very limited, and offering additional services can be a significant source of revenue. Of course, you must develop your service offer according to your specific needs. However, the examples listed above may serve as an inspiration.
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