It’s All In the Details: Mendoza Ford
A Case Study
“We did not miss a detail in the construction of Mendoza Ford”-Danielle Mendoza, Owner of Mendoza Ford. When planning and building this 40,000 sq ft facility, every little detail to improve workflow and efficiency was considered. The dealership encompasses all functional aspects: new and used car sales, full-service department, parts department and detail department. Each area required specific attention to different details.
The showroom was built to optimize the customer experience. The open-concept space with glass offices allows customers to be greeted by employees immediately. The gloss tiled floor is easy to maintain and provides an opportunity for customers to easily see underneath displayed vehicles. Pops of ‘Ford Blue’ increase brand recognition and add color to brighten the space. The lighting system is modern in appearance and function. The lights change color to create an optimal ambiance. As customers wait for service or information on vehicles, they can enjoy an upscale seating area complete with a coffee bar. There is a designated children's seating area with entertainment features.
A functional service department is crucial for dealership operations. The service department was created with utmost customer consideration. Customers drive into a climate-controlled outdoor space next to the service writer offices. The offices are modern in appearance and the open space is optimal for customer-employee interaction. Screens to show customers approximate wait times line the walls behind the desks.
The actual service shop is conveniently located near the service department. The shop is climate controlled with an HVAC system to keep employees comfortable while working to improve technician workflow and efficiency. Custom-made lifts fill the space and each section is dedicated to a specific type of work for organizational purposes.
Parts departments are sometimes chaotic spaces with little organization. A complex shelving and organizational system was constructed to make it easy for technicians to grab supplies when needed. All commonly utilized parts are on shelves at eye level to make them extra accessible. Uncommonly used parts are stored at the top of the large shelves to save space. Each parts department space is optimal for efficient and convenient parts storage.
Mendoza Ford is now open and serves the greater Lafayette community. The space is ideal for efficient operations and will contribute to the success of the dealership. Thank you to the Mendoza’s for trusting us with this project!
