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5 Digital Tools Every GM Should Be Using (But Most Aren’t)

Dealership tools for business boost, impact of going omnichannel, and the top US automotive news

Author

Kshitij Rawat
July 16, 2025

Running a dealership today means juggling a dozen things at once, like inventory, leads, team coordination, customer communication... the list goes on.

But here’s the thing: most of it can be automated or simplified with the right tools. And yet, many GMs still rely on manual systems, spreadsheets, or outdated software.

Here are 5 powerful tools that forward-thinking dealership leaders are using, and you should be too.

1. AI Chatbots for 24/7 Lead Capture

Why you need it

Most of the buyers don’t shop 9 to 5; they click, message, and browse late at night, too. If you’re not responding instantly, you’re losing them!

78% of buyers purchase from the first responder. Speed matters more than price. — Lead Connect Study

What to use

  • Smart conversational AI systems, like Spyne’s Vinnie reply instantly to your dealership calls, emails, or any other customer queries received on channels like Whatsapp.

  • Most of your leads are engaging on your website at odd hours. Let AI handle FAQs, appointment booking, and lead qualification while you sleep.

2. CRM with Auto-Followup Workflows

Why you need it

Leads fall through the cracks when follow-ups depend on memory. A modern CRM follows up like clockwork every time.

Automated messages improve lead-to-show rates by 20-30%. — Podium Sales Intelligence Report

What to use

  • Tools like Spyne Connect AI automate drip messages via email and SMS.

  • Trigger messages based on lead behavior (e.g., multiple visits to a VDP or price drop alerts).

3. AI-Powered Photo Enhancement

Why you need it

Your vehicles are great, but bad lighting or messy backgrounds kill first impressions. Listings with high-quality images get 2x more engagement. — AutoTrader Consumer Study

What to use

  • Tools like Spyne to auto-enhance images, remove cluttered backgrounds, and deliver studio-quality photos at scale.

  • Integrate with your DMS so it’s all done without lifting a finger.

4. Smart Scheduler Tools

Why you need it

Manual test drive and service booking = missed calls, confusion, and lost leads. Dealerships offering online booking report 25% higher show-up rates. — Numa Insights 2023

What to use

  • Use tools like Calendly, Pam, or your website-integrated scheduler.

  • Allow customers to pick their slot, get automated reminders, and reschedule with ease.

5. Review & Reputation Manager

Why you need it

Also, 94% of consumers say a bad review has convinced them to avoid a business. Timely response automation improves perception by up to 80%. — ReviewTrackers

What to use

  • Tools like Birdeye, Podium, or CallRevu to send auto-review requests post-sale or service.

  • Set alerts for negative reviews and respond in real-time before they hurt your brand.

Final Words

The dealerships winning today aren’t doing more. They’re doing it smarter with tools that automate the busywork so their team can focus on what matters: selling cars and serving customers. Start with these five, and watch your productivity and profits take off!

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