Central Florida body shops are being recruited for the United States launch of an online referral network called SceneExchange, which lets shops capture more jobs by using the Web to connect with customers. Membership is free and currently open to all collision repair shops.

The process starts when a participating insurer receives a claim and the customer agrees to use SceneExchange to help select the repair shop. An independent appraiser next inspects the vehicle and submits an estimate and digital photographs to SceneExchange. Member shops are alerted via SceneExchange when a new job in their area is available. They view the appraisal and compete for the business based solely on turnaround time and service.

Vehicle owners go online to review proposals and information on the shop’s training and warranty policy and read ratings from other SceneExchange customers who’ve used the shop.

The shop pays a flat referral fee only for the jobs it wins. After completion, the customer posts a rating of the service on SceneExchange.

For more information, visit www.sceneexchange.com.