SALT LAKE CITY — Arkona Inc. has announced that it has completed certification and has released the dealer management system (DMS) bi-directional integration for Volkswagen and Audi of America. This interface allows well over 1,000 Volkswagen and Audi dealerships the opportunity to become part of the growing family of Arkona DMS clients.

Volkswagen and Audi of America, Arkona, and the STAR organization, have worked together closely to deliver an efficient solution that provides franchised dealers free-flow of information to and from the dealership and VW/Audi. Immediately, Volkswagen and Audi dealers utilizing Arkona will notice significant operating efficiencies, which translate to measurable costs savings and superior access to information.

Utilization of the new factory communication interface will speed up critical transaction processes and help to eliminate data errors that could occur. Information will now seamlessly transfer from one system to another without having to be re-keyed, which reduces the possibility of human error. Dealers can now easily transfer:

- Parts orders - Electronically transfer stock orders and supplemental orders

- Parts returns - Automatically download parts returns

- Financial statements - Simplify preparation and submission of financial statements

- Warranty claims - Speed up the dealer to manufacturer warranty claim process

"This certification announcement with VW/Audi is an important accomplishment for Arkona. The VW/Audi integration and certification is fundamental for prospective dealers considering Arkona and is an absolute requirement for large dealership groups with VW and Audi franchises. Prospective dealers can now move forward with full confidence that Arkona will meet their dealership technology needs and be in compliance with all OEM communication requirements,” said Alan Rudd, CEO, Arkona Inc. “Arkona looks forward to offering VW and Audi dealers a superior and more sensibly-priced DMS.”