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PDR – Operational Structures
In considering PDR as a business, all have a common aim: to repair hail dents using the PDR techniques. The types of business structures that have evolved in the PDR industry are centred on efficiently managing a sudden abundance of work. In some ways, the insurance industry has at least in recent years influenced the PDR industry in work allocations and distribution which have impacted the development within the industry. Nevertheless, a specific set of business structures or models have evolved and dominated.
Which business model works best for you?
It is difficult to find studies or reports on comparisons within the industry or compared to other repair based industries. What percentage of the market does PDR occupy? How many new businesses are being registered in the industry each year? What are the success versus failure rates in the industry? The fact of the matter is there is no separate governing body that are there to assist. In general, the industry has a long history of keeping its trade secret.
So deciding which model best suits you depends on your specific aspirations. A knowledge of all model characteristics certainly is an advantage when establishing yourself in an already competitive and evolving industry. More importantly, there are relatively few historical precedences to rely on in terms of what models one should not adopt. The trends however tend to point to the following organisational structures.
PDR Company Models
There are two basic model approaches to consider when setting up a PDR business operation: a sole trader or partnership business model where you are working for yourself as the PDR Technician or in partnership with someone else or a team of Technicians under a company manager known as the Management PDR model. Although there are some similarities in the basic processes including a mobile operation, the latter case introduces the need for organisational and strategic planning. Apart from the team of PDR Technicians, depending on size of the company, it can include a manager, storm manager, and remove and replace personnel.
The flowchart diagram provides an overall perspective of general similarities and differences between the two basic models. It is clear though that the models diverge in terms of complexity and management and the responsibilities of each member in the organisation.
