The MINT framework is structured around key business processes in the automotive sales lifecycle. By focusing on these processes rather than on technical capabilities, MINT ensures that technology serves the business needs of ACME and its dealer network.
The automotive sales lifecycle encompasses several interconnected business processes, from initial customer interest through vehicle delivery and after-sales support. MINT addresses the following key processes:
Vehicle Presentation
The process of showcasing vehicles to potential customers using multimedia content and interactive features. This process includes:
- Model Selection: Allowing customers to browse available vehicle models and variants
- Feature Exploration: Presenting key features and benefits through text, images, and interactive media
- Visual Customization: Enabling customers to see different color and trim options
- Virtual Tours: Providing interior and exterior views of vehicles
Guided Selling
The process of helping sales staff lead customers through a structured sales conversation that addresses their needs and preferences. This process includes:
- Needs Assessment: Identifying customer requirements and preferences
- Targeted Recommendations: Suggesting appropriate models and options
- Feature Comparison: Comparing different models or configurations
- Benefit Illustration: Demonstrating how features address customer needs
Vehicle Configuration
The process of building a customized vehicle to customer specifications. This process includes:
- Option Selection: Choosing from available equipment and feature packages
- Configuration Validation: Ensuring technically valid combinations
- Pricing Calculation: Determining the final price based on selections
- Visualization: Showing the configured vehicle through images or 3D models
Quotation and Order Processing
The process of creating quotes, processing orders, and tracking status. This process includes:
- Quote Generation: Creating formal price quotes for configured vehicles
- Order Submission: Transmitting orders to ACME's production systems
- Status Tracking: Monitoring order progress through production and delivery
- Delivery Coordination: Managing vehicle delivery to customers
These business processes are supported by MINT's architecture and implemented through business objects that model the key entities in the automotive sales domain. The framework structure provides the technical foundation for these processes, while the business functionality section describes the specific capabilities that support each process.