Knaack Manufacturing Co., manufacturer of WEATHER GUARD truck and van equipment, introduced its WEATHER GUARD Vehicle Solutions software, a program that helps distributors and vehicle upfitters interactively design van storage solutions for their customers.

The new software allows distributors to design custom van storage solutions, and turn quotes quickly and accurately. The program turns what was once a time-intensive process that required extensive product knowledge, hours of time to design, and additional time to quote, into a job that can be done in minutes. Plus, when customers request design changes, revisions can be made with the click of a button. As the van storage is configured, Vehicle Solutions forms a corresponding bill of material and an immediate and customized quote.

A Web-based version of the software also is available to end users, who can easily create their own custom designs and then transfer the file to a local WEATHER GUARD distributor/upfitter for a complete quote.

The first tool of its type in the contractor-vehicle outfitting industry, the easy-to-use software tool allows users to custom design work vans with shelving, cabinets, racks and accessories. The 3-D software produces simple-to-use interactive graphics to help the user visualize the custom design prior to purchase.

After selecting a vehicle model type, the software prompts users to design their van in four steps: choose a trade; choose a module; add accessories; and review the order. The van is built by moving through the van in six zones; the software offers design suggestions as the user builds. The software also allows the user to conduct a virtual "walk-through" by zooming in and out, rotating and spinning the vehicle, and changing perspectives. Because of the logic embedded in the software, the program will not allow the van design to be configured with products that are inappropriate for a particular vehicle model, thus eliminating costly errors.

"[WEATHER GUARD Vehicle Solutions] allows van upfitters to delight their customers with custom solutions, quote each solution with ease and confidence, and close custom van deals more quickly," says Will Rose, vice president of marketing at Knaack Manufacturing.

Knaack Manufacturing worked with CHI-LLC, a Seattle-based software company that specializes in developing 3-D design and configuration sales tools for both Web-based and desktop applications.