Arlene Clements, Vice President of Business Development at Dominion DMS, joins Kaylee Felio for a gritty, optimistic conversation on dealership inventory management and data integration. Dominion's Vue DMS was built from the ground up as an open, modern platform—meaning dealerships can actually select their tech stack and integrate best-in-class tools like PartsEdge without the headache.

Arlene breaks down the challenges dealerships face with parts inventory, the urgent need to turn inventory faster, and why bi-directional, real-time integrations are the new foundation for efficient operations. Kaylee shares the day-to-day struggles of parts managers and how this integration finally fixes the disconnect that’s plagued dealerships for years.

We dive into how automated inventory management is revolutionizing parts departments, freeing up capital, reducing obsolescence, and powering customer satisfaction. Plus, get a peek behind the curtain at how PartsEdge is leveraging AI for smarter parts stocking every month.

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Takeaways

1. Open, real-time integrations empower dealerships to choose best-in-class tools and optimize operations.

2. Automated inventory management reduces manual entry, obsolescence, and frees up cash for growth.

3. AI-powered analysis helps parts managers stock smarter and adapt to market changes without the guesswork.

Chapters

00:00 Challenges with DMS integration

06:17 Discussing tech integration challenges

08:31 Optimizing dealer inventory

10:32 Managing inventory and ordering parts

15:49 Building a stable DMS launch

18:28 Training AI for inventory analysis

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Arlene Clements
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlene-clements-9005543

In this month’s live replay, Chuck Hartle and Blake Featherly dig deep into the nuts and bolts of inventory sources, DMS best practices, and why source structuring isn’t just a technical detail—it’s your key to better control, profitability, and stress-free reporting. Join PartsEdge’s original founder as he shares 30+ years of real-world expertise, breaking down source myths, and giving you a practical blueprint to turn inventory headaches into data-driven wins.

Whether you're new to the concept or looking to revamp your existing structure, Chuck’s approach demystifies commodity-based sources—from milk vs. canned asparagus (yes, really!) to actionable insights for parts managers who want to spend less time fixing messes and more time driving ROI.

Learn how to set up your DMS to work for you, segment parts smarter, and create a solid foundation for leaner inventory, cleaner books, and happier customers.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

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Takeaways

1. Break Down Your Inventory by Commodity

2. Customize Phase-In/Phase-Out and Day Supply

3. Source Structure Powers Accurate Accounting

Chapters

00:00 "Streamlining Inventory for Efficiency"

04:34 "Pricing and Sourcing Dynamics"

08:51 Optimizing Pricing and Sales Overrides

12:26 "Vehicle Accessories Sales Insights"

13:28 "Tire Inventory and Pricing Strategy"

17:14 "Optimizing Bulk Oil Inventory"

21:35 "Managing Unwanted Stock Decisions"

25:45 "Forced Stock Inventory Analysis"

30:02 "Managing Obsolete Inventory Risks"

32:13 "Dynamic Source Structure Benefits"

36:50 "Parts Setup Challenges Explained"

38:56 "Boosting Your Inventory Strategies"

This week, Kaylee sits down with Mark Michalski, seasoned NADA Academy instructor and dealership veteran, for a no-nonsense conversation about what it really takes to thrive in today’s parts departments.

Mark Michalski shares eye-opening stories from decades on the ground in dealerships across the country—digging into the challenges, opportunities, and big changes happening in auto parts management. From the realities of walking into a new department with inherited processes, to actionable advice on fill rates, training, and the future of dealership ops, you’ll walk away with real-world strategies you can use now.

Whether you’re a seasoned parts manager or just stepping into the role, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom—plus a look ahead at technology, AI, and why parts departments deserve a seat at the table. Don’t miss Mark Michalski's take on empowering employees, modernizing inventory practices, and building a network of support that drives dealership success.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com

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Takeaways

1. Training and Empowerment Matter

2. Data-Driven Inventory Wins

3. Community and Collaboration Are Game-Changers

Chapters

00:00 Automotive Dealer Training Programs

04:20 "Parts Manager Training Challenges"

09:00 Optimizing Parts Department Operations

10:52 "Building Connections for Success"

14:46 Optimizing Sales Through Data Insights

17:33 "Challenges in Parts Management"

21:37 "Store Individuality and Similarities"

25:12 "Challenges of Vendor-Managed Inventory"

26:08 "Challenges in Parts Management Training"

32:39 "Collaboration Over Competition in AI"

33:42 Lack of Industry Standardization

36:55 Passion for Supporting Students

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Mark Michalski

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamichalski