IDA Member Spotlight: Rod Puzey, Zenware

International Detailing Association (IDA): How did you get into the detailing industry?

Rod Puzey (RP): I started out in the automotive restoration business and as a mechanic in the late 80’s and then in 2009, after starting a software company that builds an invoicing system called RoadFS, we got heavily involved in the detailing world.  I became a certified detailer to enhance my skills and bring more knowledge to the software about detailing.

IDA: Please tell us more about your business. 

RP: We started our software company in 2009 with the idea to build a software for the auto reconditioning industry.  We still have our original two customers to this day.  We got involved with the IDA early on, sitting on a panel about technology and wanted to get more involved.  I became certified and we got even more involved each year.  This year we were invited to be Founder's Club members and we couldn’t be more excited to take on new roles to help the organization.

IDA: In what products or services does your company specialize? 

RP: We provide a software package that allows detailers and product distributors to schedule work, check-in cars through a vin scan, do work, and invoice their customers. It also allows them to deliver products or any number of other services and provide a professional invoice at the end.

IDA: What do you think is the most important factor to being successful in the detailing industry?

RP: Listening to customers, staying educated by taking training courses, and keeping up with the latest trends and products.

IDA: Are there any awards/certifications/accomplishments that you or your business has earned and would like to share with us? 

RP: Top 10 Best places to work in Idaho, six years in a row.  Detailers of Air Force One for two years.  IDA certified.  IDA Founders club. 

IDA: What is the best advice you ever received?

RP: Do it or don’t do it.  Make a commitment and go for it.

IDA: What tips do you have for the new detailer? For the experienced detailer? 

RP: For new detailers my advice is to get involved, don’t just go through the process of the business alone. Get mentors, a friend and use the organizations vast experience to help you get where you want to be.  For experienced detailers, listen and learn, don’t assume you know everything and constantly grow.

IDA: Funniest business moment? 

RP: Once we got a call from a person who thought we made and sold kitchen knives, even after a few minutes of explaining the person still wasn’t convinced we didn’t sell knives.

IDA: Why did you decide to get involved with the IDA? 

RP: The IDA is the only organization in the detailing industry that has a certification process that establishes a baseline for training, product knowledge, and ethics in the detailing world.  

IDA: How has your involvement with the IDA affected your business and your career?

RP: My involvement in the IDA has led to countless new relationships, opportunities and friendships at every event. The affiliation with the IDA has brought a legitimacy to our company that lets everyone in the world know that we are legitimately involved and certified in the detailing industry.