Karmak Showcases New AI Innovation at Successful User Conference
(Carlinville, IL, October 28, 2024) - Karmak recently concluded its annual User Conference & Expo in St. Louis, MO, an event that brought together professionals from across the heavy-duty industry for a dynamic and informative three-day experience. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers, explore new innovations, and engage in interactive sessions designed to help businesses maximize their use of the Fusion business system.
Karmak demonstrated its commitment to empowering customers through its robust suite of products, including the debut of the new AI-powered assistant, “RICHARD,” within the Karmak Mobile Service application.
The Karmak Mobile Service App's New AI-powered assistant, RICHARD
RICHARD is an AI-powered assistant designed to change the way Fusion users operate within their their business system, transforming how everyday tasks are performed. Unveiled in a live demo during day one’s opening session, RICHARD showcased hands-free voice navigation for repair order management within the Karmak Mobile Service app, heralding a new era in Karmak’s service technologies. Beyond its debut, RICHARD is poised to become a personal Fusion expert—empowering users to streamline tasks, save valuable time, and focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.
From left to right: Neil Osborn, Justin Blakley, Jordan Hewitt, John Cowan, and Jim Allen presenting RICHARD during day one's opening session
Named in homage to Richard Schien, Karmak’s visionary founder who retired in 2022, RICHARD continues the legacy of using technology to break new ground. Richard Schien helped pioneer the use of business systems in the commercial trucking industry, and RICHARD embodies that same spirit of innovation, now applied to artificial intelligence.
John Cowan, Karmak’s Vice President of Business Solutions, explains, “RICHARD will evolve into a Fusion co-intelligence that partners with our users, helping them boost productivity, and efficiency. Our goal is to free up our customers so they can concentrate on what truly drives their business—their customers.”
Cowan highlights the broader vision: “Our customers are always seeking ways to differentiate through superior service. RICHARD’s capabilities will grow within the Karmak ecosystem, becoming an integral part of that mission, helping Fusion users deliver exceptional service and drive productivity to new heights.”
This year’s conference featured an impressive lineup of guest speakers, including Keynote Speaker Mike Sorensen - General Manager of Coast Counties Truck & Equipment Co., and current ATD President Laura Perrotta, alongside Jodie Teuton, Dealer Principal of Kenworth of Louisiana.
Mike Sorensen giving the keynote presentation during day two's opening session
The event also offered networking opportunities, educational sessions, industry trend insights, a look at future technologies, and an expo with top vendors—highlighting Karmak's dedication to customer success and industry collaboration. Karmak Conference & Expo 2024 exemplified Karmak's dedication to its customers and the heavy-duty industry at large, offering a platform for both learning and collaboration.