The 2011 Business Technology Symposium will include five essential business technology super sessions presented by leading industry experts.

Whether you’re a small-business owner, on the IT staff or in charge of marketing and sales, you can’t afford to miss these five essential business technology super sessions, presented by leading industry experts. The 2011 Business Technology Symposium (BTS), presented by SEMA’s Street Performance Council (SPC), will be held Wednesday, July 27, 2011, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel in Long Beach, California. The event will include a 12:00 p.m. networking lunch with more than 100 industry participants.

2011 Business Technology Symposium Super Sessions:

Mobile’s Role in the Automotive Aftermarket (10:00 a.m.): We live in a society where customers increasingly rely on their mobile devices to make purchases and find the information they need. This session will examine current trends in mobile, their impact on the aftermarket as well as the opportunities that exist for your business. Don’t miss this chance to get an inside look at the opportunities that exist in the mobile marketplace. Presenter: Jack Abraham, eBay Motors.

Product Design and Manufacturing Technology That Could Change the Aftermarket (11:00 a.m.): Imagine a world where new products can be designed as shapes on a computer and easily turned into objects using 3-D printers. You can “print” or make a dozen, see if there is a market for them and “print” 50 more with minor modifications using feedback from early users—all while reducing costs and waste. The technology is here and gaining ground quickly. This session will examine design innovation (customer feedback on product development and improvement), the latest in scanning tools, related equipment (purchase and rented), CAD/CAM software (including inexpensive free tools) and additive manufacturing/rapid prototyping machines. The future is here. Don’t miss this intriguing discussion. Panel: Tom Myroniak, SEMA; Brandon Roby, Whole Hog Technologies; and Terry Wohlers, Wohlers Associates.

Manufacturer & Distributor Online Marketing Essentials (1:15 p.m.): With limited resources and almost unlimited opportunities, where should your company invest in the digital space? Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, mobile, eCommerce—what will really net the best return on investment? What is the best way to generate new leads and engage current customers? Learn what the current trends are and what’s working best for companies in the aftermarket. Panel: Martin Lauer, Swirl; Randy Fuller, Part Authority; Famous Rhodes, eBay Motors; and James Yim, Falken Tire.

Connecting with Customers: Effective Content Marketing (2:15 p.m.): The rules of marketing have changed. Previously, marketing and sales consisted of blanket messages about your company’s superior products or services. Today’s savvy customers want relevant and valuable content that is tailored specifically to them. This session will examine how to develop and deliver compelling content that will help convert prospects to customers as well as how to keep them engaged.

Capture, Manage & Nurture Leads to Win More Customers (3:30 p.m.): It is invaluable when a potential customer initiates contact with your company. But how do you attract them? And once you have them, what is the process to convert them efficiently and effectively? This session will discuss how to attract highly qualified customers, nurture them along in the sales process and work toward converting them to a loyal customer.

To donate door prizes or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Staci Bostock at 909/978-6693 or StaciB@sema.org.

Save $50 when you register before July 22. Registration must be received by July 25. For more information visit sema.org/bts.

Click here to view the 2010 BTS testimonial video.

 

The 2011 Business Technology Symposium will include five essential business technology super sessions presented by leading industry experts.

Whether you’re a small-business owner, on the IT staff or in charge of marketing and sales, you can’t afford to miss these five essential business technology super sessions, presented by leading industry experts. The 2011 Business Technology Symposium (BTS), presented by SEMA’s Street Performance Council (SPC), will be held Wednesday, July 27, 2011, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel in Long Beach, California. The event will include a 12:00 p.m. networking lunch with more than 100 industry participants.

2011 Business Technology Symposium Super Sessions:

Mobile’s Role in the Automotive Aftermarket (10:00 a.m.): We live in a society where customers increasingly rely on their mobile devices to make purchases and find the information they need. This session will examine current trends in mobile, their impact on the aftermarket as well as the opportunities that exist for your business. Don’t miss this chance to get an inside look at the opportunities that exist in the mobile marketplace. Presenter: Jack Abraham, eBay Motors.

Product Design and Manufacturing Technology That Could Change the Aftermarket (11:00 a.m.): Imagine a world where new products can be designed as shapes on a computer and easily turned into objects using 3-D printers. You can “print” or make a dozen, see if there is a market for them and “print” 50 more with minor modifications using feedback from early users—all while reducing costs and waste. The technology is here and gaining ground quickly. This session will examine design innovation (customer feedback on product development and improvement), the latest in scanning tools, related equipment (purchase and rented), CAD/CAM software (including inexpensive free tools) and additive manufacturing/rapid prototyping machines. The future is here. Don’t miss this intriguing discussion. Panel: Tom Myroniak, SEMA; Brandon Roby, Whole Hog Technologies; and Terry Wohlers, Wohlers Associates.

Manufacturer & Distributor Online Marketing Essentials (1:15 p.m.): With limited resources and almost unlimited opportunities, where should your company invest in the digital space? Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, mobile, eCommerce—what will really net the best return on investment? What is the best way to generate new leads and engage current customers? Learn what the current trends are and what’s working best for companies in the aftermarket. Panel: Martin Lauer, Swirl; Randy Fuller, Part Authority; Famous Rhodes, eBay Motors; and James Yim, Falken Tire.

Connecting with Customers: Effective Content Marketing (2:15 p.m.): The rules of marketing have changed. Previously, marketing and sales consisted of blanket messages about your company’s superior products or services. Today’s savvy customers want relevant and valuable content that is tailored specifically to them. This session will examine how to develop and deliver compelling content that will help convert prospects to customers as well as how to keep them engaged.

Capture, Manage & Nurture Leads to Win More Customers (3:30 p.m.): It is invaluable when a potential customer initiates contact with your company. But how do you attract them? And once you have them, what is the process to convert them efficiently and effectively? This session will discuss how to attract highly qualified customers, nurture them along in the sales process and work toward converting them to a loyal customer.

To donate door prizes or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Staci Bostock at 909/978-6693 or StaciB@sema.org.

Save $50 when you register before July 22. Registration must be received by July 25. For more information visit sema.org/bts.

Click here to view the 2010 BTS testimonial video.

 

The 2011 Business Technology Symposium will include five essential business technology super sessions presented by leading industry experts.

Whether you’re a small-business owner, on the IT staff or in charge of marketing and sales, you can’t afford to miss these five essential business technology super sessions, presented by leading industry experts. The 2011 Business Technology Symposium (BTS), presented by SEMA’s Street Performance Council (SPC), will be held Wednesday, July 27, 2011, from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel in Long Beach, California. The event will include a 12:00 p.m. networking lunch with more than 100 industry participants.

2011 Business Technology Symposium Super Sessions:

Mobile’s Role in the Automotive Aftermarket (10:00 a.m.): We live in a society where customers increasingly rely on their mobile devices to make purchases and find the information they need. This session will examine current trends in mobile, their impact on the aftermarket as well as the opportunities that exist for your business. Don’t miss this chance to get an inside look at the opportunities that exist in the mobile marketplace. Presenter: Jack Abraham, eBay Motors.

Product Design and Manufacturing Technology That Could Change the Aftermarket (11:00 a.m.): Imagine a world where new products can be designed as shapes on a computer and easily turned into objects using 3-D printers. You can “print” or make a dozen, see if there is a market for them and “print” 50 more with minor modifications using feedback from early users—all while reducing costs and waste. The technology is here and gaining ground quickly. This session will examine design innovation (customer feedback on product development and improvement), the latest in scanning tools, related equipment (purchase and rented), CAD/CAM software (including inexpensive free tools) and additive manufacturing/rapid prototyping machines. The future is here. Don’t miss this intriguing discussion. Panel: Tom Myroniak, SEMA; Brandon Roby, Whole Hog Technologies; and Terry Wohlers, Wohlers Associates.

Manufacturer & Distributor Online Marketing Essentials (1:15 p.m.): With limited resources and almost unlimited opportunities, where should your company invest in the digital space? Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, mobile, eCommerce—what will really net the best return on investment? What is the best way to generate new leads and engage current customers? Learn what the current trends are and what’s working best for companies in the aftermarket. Panel: Martin Lauer, Swirl; Randy Fuller, Part Authority; Famous Rhodes, eBay Motors; and James Yim, Falken Tire.

Connecting with Customers: Effective Content Marketing (2:15 p.m.): The rules of marketing have changed. Previously, marketing and sales consisted of blanket messages about your company’s superior products or services. Today’s savvy customers want relevant and valuable content that is tailored specifically to them. This session will examine how to develop and deliver compelling content that will help convert prospects to customers as well as how to keep them engaged.

Capture, Manage & Nurture Leads to Win More Customers (3:30 p.m.): It is invaluable when a potential customer initiates contact with your company. But how do you attract them? And once you have them, what is the process to convert them efficiently and effectively? This session will discuss how to attract highly qualified customers, nurture them along in the sales process and work toward converting them to a loyal customer.

To donate door prizes or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Staci Bostock at 909/978-6693 or StaciB@sema.org.

Save $50 when you register before July 22. Registration must be received by July 25. For more information visit sema.org/bts.

Click here to view the 2010 BTS testimonial video.

At SEMA’s request, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently extended its “Parts in Progress” (PIP) program until September 30, 2011. The program was slated to conclude on June 30, 2011. The program was initiated in light of California's inclusion of light- and medium-duty diesel vehicles in its smog-check program. In order for uncertified diesel parts to not cause failure of the visual portion of the Bureau of Automotive Repair's (BAR) smog check, CARB (in conjunction with SEMA and its members), created a procedure whereby members submitted Executive Order (E.O.) applications; the agency then conducted an "engineering analysis" of the parts and placed them on a PIP list. The PIP list (viewable at www.arb.ca.gov) identifies companies that have submitted all traditional E.O. applications materials and are currently addressing test requirements spelled out in the program, including a rigorous steady-state test mode. Test letters continue to be obtained and testing has begun. Now through September 30, no diesel vehicle equipped with parts in the certification process will fail the visual portion of the BAR smog-check test.

Limited laboratory testing capability coupled with delays in members receiving CARB test letters have exacerbated getting tests completed to date. Meanwhile, BAR smog-check stations are referencing the CARB website to identify products that will not cause failure of the smog-check’s visual portion.

According to CARB, manufacturers of non-tuning products are not having problems concluding their emissions compliance testing by the original June 30 deadline. However, based on a variety of reasons, producers of tuning products are confronting issues, such as limited testing facilities able to conduct the required tests, anticipated changes to current product configurations and complexity of the new testing protocol.

SEMA staff continues to work with manufacturers of tuning products, the primary test facility (Automotive Testing and Development Services) and CARB representatives to help in meeting this new deadline. For additional information, contact Jim McFarland at 901/377-1210 or jmcfar1@aol.com.

At SEMA’s request, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently extended its “Parts in Progress” (PIP) program until September 30, 2011. The program was slated to conclude on June 30, 2011. The program was initiated in light of California's inclusion of light- and medium-duty diesel vehicles in its smog-check program. In order for uncertified diesel parts to not cause failure of the visual portion of the Bureau of Automotive Repair's (BAR) smog check, CARB (in conjunction with SEMA and its members), created a procedure whereby members submitted Executive Order (E.O.) applications; the agency then conducted an "engineering analysis" of the parts and placed them on a PIP list. The PIP list (viewable at www.arb.ca.gov) identifies companies that have submitted all traditional E.O. applications materials and are currently addressing test requirements spelled out in the program, including a rigorous steady-state test mode. Test letters continue to be obtained and testing has begun. Now through September 30, no diesel vehicle equipped with parts in the certification process will fail the visual portion of the BAR smog-check test.

Limited laboratory testing capability coupled with delays in members receiving CARB test letters have exacerbated getting tests completed to date. Meanwhile, BAR smog-check stations are referencing the CARB website to identify products that will not cause failure of the smog-check’s visual portion.

According to CARB, manufacturers of non-tuning products are not having problems concluding their emissions compliance testing by the original June 30 deadline. However, based on a variety of reasons, producers of tuning products are confronting issues, such as limited testing facilities able to conduct the required tests, anticipated changes to current product configurations and complexity of the new testing protocol.

SEMA staff continues to work with manufacturers of tuning products, the primary test facility (Automotive Testing and Development Services) and CARB representatives to help in meeting this new deadline. For additional information, contact Jim McFarland at 901/377-1210 or jmcfar1@aol.com.

SEMA members are invited to attend several networking events, including a seminar on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) specialty-equipment market on June 8, and a SEMA-sponsored dinner with selected key accessories and performance distributors. For more information, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

SEMA members are invited to attend several networking events, including a seminar on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) specialty-equipment market on June 8, and a SEMA-sponsored dinner with selected key accessories and performance distributors. For more information, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Legislation to provide that classic vehicles and classic rods would be exempted from emissions inspections if owners pay a one-time $6 fee and submit a certification that their vehicle will not be driven more than 5,000 miles per year was passed by the Senate Transportation Committee and will now be considered by the full Nevada Senate. The bill already has been passed by the Nevada Assembly. Currently, classic rods and classic vehicles are subject to a 2,500-mile-per-year limit to qualify for an emissions exemption and must pass an initial two-speed idle emissions inspection to qualify. Also, each year, the owners of classic rods and classic vehicles must fill out a certification that their vehicles have not been driven more than 2,500 miles during the previous year and the certification must be verified by a DMV emissions technician. Under A.B. 2, the initial emissions inspection would no longer be required. Existing law only exempts ’67 and older model-year vehicles from emissions inspection.    

For more information, click here. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org. 

Legislation to provide that classic vehicles and classic rods would be exempted from emissions inspections if owners pay a one-time $6 fee and submit a certification that their vehicle will not be driven more than 5,000 miles per year was passed by the Senate Transportation Committee and will now be considered by the full Nevada Senate. The bill already has been passed by the Nevada Assembly. Currently, classic rods and classic vehicles are subject to a 2,500-mile-per-year limit to qualify for an emissions exemption and must pass an initial two-speed idle emissions inspection to qualify. Also, each year, the owners of classic rods and classic vehicles must fill out a certification that their vehicles have not been driven more than 2,500 miles during the previous year and the certification must be verified by a DMV emissions technician. Under A.B. 2, the initial emissions inspection would no longer be required. Existing law only exempts ’67 and older model-year vehicles from emissions inspection.    

For more information, click here. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org. 

SEMA-supported legislation to provide for an expanded-use antique-vehicle registration class that would allow antique vehicles and replicas to be driven without limitation during the warmer part of the year (April 1 through October 31) was approved unanimously by the full Illinois Senate. The bill already has been passed by the full Illinois House of Representatives and will now be sent to the governor for his signature and enactment into law. Under the bill, expanded-use antiques are limited to traveling to and from car shows, exhibitions, servicing or demonstration during the colder months (November 1 through March 31). Regular antique-vehicle registration would still be available for a lower fee to hobbyists who would prefer only operating their vehicle on a limited-use basis throughout the year.

For more information, click here. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.