Sharebox Blog

How digital tools enhance customer trust and transparency

Written by Kjetil Faye Lund | 14. January 2025

We live in a technology-driven world and customer trust is no longer just about delivering on promises. It’s about doing so transparently and efficiently.

For car dealerships and service workshops, digital tools like video documentation and SMS updates have become essential in transforming the way trust is built. Let’s dive into how these tools not only boost customer satisfaction but also establish a strong foundation of transparency.

Super easy customer experience with self-service kiosks

We all value clarity in transactions, especially when it comes to high-value services like vehicle maintenance. Customers want to know they’re paying for what they truly need, and dealerships want to ensure smooth operations and satisfied clients. Transparency isn’t a luxury—it’s an expectation.

In this article, I’ll show how integrating digital tools into service workflows can foster trust. We’ll explore how video documentation and real-time SMS updates make customers feel informed, empowered, and valued. Expect insights into the practical applications of these tools, their benefits, and how they can be the key to not just retaining customers but turning them into your advocates.

The trust boost: Video documentation

Nothing speaks louder than visual evidence. Video documentation has revolutionized the way dealerships and workshops communicate service needs. Here’s how it works:

  1. Inspection Transparency: Imagine a mechanic documenting a brake issue via video. Instead of vague explanations, customers receive clear visuals showing the problem, the urgency, and the required solution.
  2. Customer Empowerment: This approach gives customers confidence in their decision-making. They’re not left wondering if a repair is truly necessary; they see it themselves.
  3. Reduced Disputes: Visual evidence minimizes misunderstandings and builds goodwill, creating a win-win scenario for both parties.

As noted in the automotive industry’s embrace of digitalization, sharing video updates directly with customers can create a level of trust that no static invoice ever could.

Real-time updates for a frictionless workflow

Imagine booking a service appointment online and receiving updates throughout the day. SMS communication ensures that customers are never left in the dark. Key benefits include:

  • Instant Communication: Customers can be notified when their car is being worked on, when it’s ready for pick-up, or if there’s an unexpected delay.
  • Upsell Opportunities: SMS links can suggest additional services based on the car’s condition, giving customers the choice to approve services with a single tap
  • Customer Convenience: No need for lengthy calls or in-person visits—everything is handled on the go.

For businesses looking to leap, integrating tools like Sharebox can amplify these benefits. Sharebox offers secure, self-service kiosks for seamless key management and payment processing, allowing for real-time updates, automated processes, and a fully transparent customer journey

Transparency builds trust and boosts customer retention

By embracing digital tools like video documentation and SMS updates, dealerships can meet—and exceed—customer expectations for transparency. This enhances trust and drives repeat business and referrals, ensuring long-term success.

Transparency is the foundation of customer loyalty. When customers feel informed and empowered throughout their service journey, they’re more likely to return—and even recommend your dealership to others. Integrating digital and secure payment solutions can create a seamless experience that fosters trust.

Transparency begins with communication. Customers no longer need to rely on vague explanations or feel uncertain about the value of the service they’re paying for. This clarity builds confidence and ensures customers feel valued and in control of their decisions.

Additionally, digital solutions such as Sharebox kiosks take this transparency further by streamlining processes like key drop-offs, ID verification, and payments. Customers can access these services 24/7, removing barriers like time constraints or reliance on staff availability. This convenience reinforces the sense of trust while improving customer satisfaction.

By prioritizing transparency through innovative technology, you meet and exceed customer expectations. The result? Stronger relationships, higher retention rates, and a reputation as a dealership that puts its customers first. Transparency isn’t just good for business—it’s essential for long-term success.