What is the difference between a native feature and an integration?
Native means the capability is built into the product you are buying and is supported by that provider. Integrated means it is delivered by connecting to another system, with a connection that has an owner, a scope and often a fee. The distinction matters because it determines who you call when it breaks and what happens if the other relationship ends.
Ask the question directly in the demo
For each capability shown: is this native, configured, delivered by a partner, or on a roadmap? Record the answer per feature. Demonstrations blend all four seamlessly.
Partner-delivered means a third contract
A capability delivered by a partner usually implies another agreement, another renewal and another support path. Establish whether you contract with the partner directly or through the primary provider.
Roadmap is not a feature
Anything not available today should be scored as absent. If the purchase depends on it, tie it to a dated commitment with a consequence rather than to a slide.
Support boundaries
For every integrated capability, establish which provider owns the fault when the connection fails. Two providers each pointing at the other is the most common integration failure mode.
What to verify
Ask per feature: native, configured, partner or roadmap
Establish whether a partner capability means a third contract
Score roadmap items as absent
Confirm which provider owns the fault when a connection fails
Continue the research
Related dealership technology questions
What software do car dealerships use?
Most dealerships use a DMS as the operating and financial backbone, plus a CRM, website/CMS, inventory tools, digital retailing, communications, marketing, analytics, F&I and fixed-operations systems. The right combination depends on franchise obligations, market, store count and operating model.
DMS definitionWhat is a dealer management system (DMS)?
A dealer management system is the dealership-specific operational and financial platform used for functions such as accounting, vehicle sales, parts, repair orders, manufacturer reporting and management reporting. Exact modules and OEM eligibility vary by provider and market.
DMS versus CRMWhat is the difference between a DMS and a CRM?
A DMS is normally the operating and financial system of record for deals, accounting, parts and service. A CRM is normally the sales and customer-workflow system for leads, communications, appointments and follow-up. A suite may include both, but the data and workflow boundaries still need to be documented.
Dealership software pricingHow much does dealership software cost?
There is no dependable universal price because dealership software is commonly quoted by rooftop, module, user, usage, media spend, data volume or transaction. Compare a three-year total-cost schedule instead of a headline monthly amount.