While this may seem like an easy question to answer, the answer is a long one. The BMS currently contains 104 messages each of which performs a different data exchange for a specific business function. The 104 messages address data exchanges between companies to improve the work-flow between and within companies. More messages are added to the BMS with each new Release.

Some of these business functions, covered in the BMS, are:

• Ordering Parts and Materials;
• Repair Order Management;
• CSI processing and measurement;
• Status reporting, both Repair and Rental;
• Vehicle damage estimating and Image processing;
• All types of Assignment processing; and,
• Many others.

And, the BMS allows companies to transmit only the data required for the application without transmitting “un-needed data.” This protects the confidentiality of your data and your customer’s data.

So, as you can see from the above, if an IP says “My company has implemented the BMS,” you should ask “Which business functions are covered by your company’s BMS implementation?” Remember, an IP can honestly answer that they have implemented the BMS if they have implemented one of the 104 messages. You need to know which ones that company has implemented and are they beneficial to you.