Mitchell International (San Diego) has released UltraMate 7, which the vendor describes as the next major version of its collision estimating solution. Mitchell claims the product establishes a new standard for quality, ease-of-use and estimating proficiency that both improves the process and lays the foundation for future estimating innovation.

UltraMate 7 includes several features designed to enable estimators to more easily identify and select parts, and to write estimates more efficiently, including highlighted active tabs, updated icons, alternating color repair grid lines, and title case fonts, all of which are complemented by improved navigation and updated graphics. In order to support Mitchell's traditional goal of creating "write-once" estimates quickly, UltraMate 7 includes Additional Operation Add-To windows help novice estimators feel confident they have not missed any necessary procedures, the vendor says. At the same time, experienced estimators can quickly select additional operations without having to look through different part categories and procedure pages, according to Mitchell. A Special Materials Warning ensures that, as vehicles become more and more complex, both novice and experienced estimators alike will know up-front if a panel is made of a special material before attempting to repair it. This will result in fewer costly mistakes, fewer necessary supplements and decreased cycle times as a result of improper repairs, according to the vendor.

"UltraMate 7 is optimized to meet the needs of today's estimator who must quickly prepare an accurate estimate the first time. UltraMate 7 delivers on all fronts by providing an intuitive application that leverages a highly trusted industry standard like Mitchell's Parts and Labor Database," says Jesse Herrera, senior vice president, marketing and product management, Mitchell International. "UltraMate 7 is the first of several Mitchell innovations we will be rolling out in 2009, in keeping with our promise to the collision repair community to help improve the claims settlement process for all participants, whether repairers, insurers or customers."