The Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) has processed more than 1,600 inquiries as it nears its second full year in existence.

“The DEG has proven to be an invaluable asset to the collision repair industry as a whole,” says Barry Dorn DEG joint operating committee member. “The DEG continues to prove its ability to successfully assist collision repair estimating end users in their quest for accurate collision repair data. The DEG provides a standardized, quick and easy forum for the collision repair industry to communicate with each of the three major information providers to process data related inquiries.”

“When the three major collision repair trade associations, ASA, AASP, and SCRS joined together to create the DEG, which was an extension of March Taylor’s efforts prior to the creation of the DEG, we envisioned a service that would inspire collision repair professionals around the country to step up and get involved in the solution.” says Lou DiLisio. “There is still a lot of work to be done but the fact that the DEG has received more than 1,600 database inquiries to date is a very clear sign the collision repair industry has embraced the DEG and the results speak for themselves.”

“I’ve been impressed by the level of commitment I’ve seen from each of the information providers; (Audatex, CCC / Motor, Mitchell) there is a very clear message of commitment toward improving the accuracy of the data each of them provide” says Bud Center Jr., DEG administration. “I have seen example after example of the information providers taking the feedback provided in the DEG inquiries and then working diligently to provide a timely response with accurate data being the common end goal.”

“The success of the DEG relies heavily on the support of the collision repair industry” says Darrell Amberson, a DEG joint operating committee member. “In order for the DEG to grow and continue to provide this invaluable service to the collision repair industry we all need to ensure we are doing our part. We need to make sure we are submitting an inquiry to the DEG any time we see inaccurate data in any of the collision estimating databases. In addition, we need to spread the word to all of our collision industry peers about the tremendous progress we are making with the assistance of the DEG.”

The DEG thanked Michael Ferrucci, an appraiser at Ray’s Carstar Auto Body in Bristol, Conn., and John Ritter, general manager of Highland AutoStar Collision Center in St. Paul, Minn., for individual efforts to improve database accuracy.

DEG enables those who use collision repair estimating databases to provide feedback to the information providers in an effort to promote data accuracy. DEG resources include an easy-to-use Web site and inquiry form, dedicated administration for the processing of inquiries, and a current database of both pending and resolved data inquiries submitted to the three major information providers. The DEG is created, equally funded and maintained by the Automotive Service Association, the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists as well as sponsorships and donations from industry companies and individuals.

For more information about the DEG, or if you have an inquiry regarding estimating software data, visit www.degweb.org.