Automotive Information Resources Key Terms

Understanding automotive information resources terminology to improve your business
By Kim Finn Small business owners in the automotive industry face numerous challenges to keep their businesses afloat and profitable. If you operate an automotive related business, it pays to understand key terms related to automotive information resources.

Understanding the automotive information resources available will help you work smarter, more efficiently and make better-informed decisions related to your business and your career. This guide hones in on specific automotive information resources available to you.

Automotive market report

An automotive market report is a published document that provides researched information regarding the status of a particular segment of the automotive industry. Such reports highlight statistics and offer analysis on the status and future trends of a specific automotive market segment.
Try:  Learn more about information you can get from an automotive market report dealing with the used car industry at Manheim Consulting.

Auto parts cross reference guide

An auto parts cross reference guide refers to a publication (print, digital or online) that allows users to find a particular automotive part compatible with the vehicle. Guides can be general in nature or deal only with a specific car part like oil filters or fuel pumps.
Try:  ACDelco provides an extensive online cross reference guide for all the auto parts they manufacture. Chilton provides reference content and resources for the automotive industry.

GlobalSpec

GlobalSpec is a popular and specialized e-publishing, vertical search and information services company that benefits both buyers and sellers. It maintains a proprietary database of both distributor and OEM product catalogs, e-newsletters and a vertical search engine to save time and effort in your research.
Try:  The GlobalSpec website serves as a valuable automotive resource for finding information on automobile parts, services and equipment.

National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA)

Founded in 1917, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) is a national trade organization for new car and truck dealerships and serves as a rich resource for automotive information. The organization stays involved with legislative affairs, industry relations, legal affairs, public affairs, dealership services, training programs, information technology and much more. Its publications include the widely used NADA Used Car Guide.
Try:  Find the NADA publication that offers the information you need at the organization's website.

Automotive Service Association (ASA)

First organized in 1951, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) is a not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to offering education, member services and representation to automotive service business owners and managers.
Try:  Explore the ASA website for information on legislative actions, automotive tips, employment classifieds, education, training and events.

Employment and Training Administration (ETA)

The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) is a federal agency that falls within the U.S. Department of Labor. It administers job training and worker dislocation programs, unemployment insurance benefits and federal grants related to public employment service programs for states.
Try:  Learn more about information resources geared towards workers displaced from the automotive industry at the ETA website.