Mobile solution improves efficiency and accuracy in claims experience FORT WORTH, Texas - After more than 20 years of providing an estimating system and claims management solution platform for Property Damage Appraisers (PDA), Mitchell, a leading provider of technology, connectivity and information systems to the Property & Casualty (P&C) claims and Collision Repair industries today announced the availability of PDA Xpress, a new integrated service offering for Mitchell WorkCenter customers developed by PDA to provide virtual estimating services. “Expanding our relationship with PDA will offer joint customers a complete end-to-end photo-based estimating solution,” said Scott Kozak, senior vice president of Auto Physical Damage Insurance Service and Sales at Mitchell. “PDA is the industry leading independent appraisal services company, so we are excited that this service will be available to Mitchell WorkCenter customers. Leveraging new mobile technology is critical for solving the changing needs of all involved in the claims process.”     PDA Xpress increases efficiency, decreases cycle time to three hours or less and helps adjusters close claims quickly. With PDA Xpress, the adjuster manages the file, hands it off to PDA and then receives a completed file from PDA, dramatically reducing cycle time and ultimately making the life of the vehicle owner easier. PDA is the only company that offers photo-based estimating services for autos and heavy equipment as well as a national network of professional appraisers to manage the appraisal process.  “PDA and Mitchell have had a great working relationship for many years,” said Tom Dolfay, CEO, PDA. “This announcement is the next natural step and we’re excited to offer a greater depth of service to mutual customers through PDA Xpress.” The PDA Xpress service includes a web-based solution for customers, eliminating the need for them to waste valuable space on their phones by downloading an app. To file a claim, all adjusters need to do is send a link to a user’s phone via a text message. Through this link, vehicle owners will access PDA Xpress, take photos of their damaged vehicles and easily submit their photos through the web-based tool. “What makes PDA Xpress unique is that an adjuster can simply hand off a claim to PDA with full confidence that it will be returned completed. If a claim is ineligible due to extensive damages, one of our more than 650 national appraisers will handle the claims process,” Dolfay said. In cases where extensive damage occurs and an estimate cannot be completed through images alone, PDA will dispatch an experienced appraiser from their nationwide network and turn around an estimate in 24 to 48 hours on automobiles, and five days or less for tractor trailers. This process is also managed through PDA, requiring no extra effort from adjusters.