ARKONA on Nov. 5 announced the initial release of a graphical user interface (GUI) Version 1.0 of its dealer management system software. ARKONA said its GUI solution is integrated with all of its Web-enabled applications including accounting, inventory management, sales, service and parts.

Augmenting these core applications are DCS communications, options for ASP or in-house delivery, interfaces to third-party dealer services and a recently released, Web-based vehicle tracking and management module, according to ARKONA.

"ARKONA recognizes the software interface expectations of a new generation of dealership employees and has engineered its software solutions to accommodate those expectations," the company said in a statement.

Users of the ARKONA system can select between the existing character-based version or the new GUI version. This preference feature, which can at anytime be quickly changed, allows users to work in the software environment in which they feel most comfortable, according to the company.

"ARKONA has always focused its efforts to ensure the DMS interface is intuitive and simple to use," said Rich Holland, president of ARKONA. "This tradition continues with the development of our next generation graphical user interface. Our organization's strength lies in our ability to listen to and act upon suggestions and good ideas from our dealers."

ARKONA said it continues to concentrate on the features and functionality required to deliver one-stop shopping for dealers. "Dealers have come to expect attractive pricing, a full suite of dealer solutions, and excellent service and support from ARKONA," the company said in a prepared statement.

About ARKONA Inc.

ARKONA is a public company specializing in automotive management solutions.

ARKONA's Dealer Management Solution is an e-business solution for automotive dealers that integrates back office systems with a retail Web presence. In this market ARKONA is an Application Service Provider (ASP).

For more information visit www.arkona.com.