Seven minutes. That’s how long it takes, on average, to manually search for a replacement part in the catalog, type in the part number, and enter it into the workshop system. Multiply that by 30 items per day, and you quickly end up with several hours of pure search time—time that’s missing from the workshop. This is exactly where CATAMA comes in with its interface (API) to the Dolphin parts catalog: a direct data bridge that transfers spare parts from the Dolphin catalog directly into order processing—including price, description, and availability.
For auto repair shops and dealerships in the automotive industry, this represents a quantum leap in efficiency. Instead of juggling multiple programs, the entire process—from vehicle identification to invoicing—runs on a single system. This article explains in detail how the integration works, what benefits it offers, and what to keep in mind during setup.
Key Takeaways
- Direct data flow: Items from the Dolphin parts catalog are imported into CATAMA via API without the need for manual entry.
- Save up to 60% of the time spent on order entry by eliminating the need for duplicate data entry.
- Error reduction: Typos in item numbers and prices are a thing of the past.
- Full integration: The shopping cart, order processing, and invoicing work together seamlessly.
- Scalable: Suitable for small repair shops as well as large multi-brand facilities and independent repair shop chains.
What is CATAMA with an interface (API) to the Dolphin parts catalog?
CATAMA is a cloud-based automotive workshop software solution that combines workshop management, invoicing, inventory management, and customer management into a single platform. The Dolphin Parts Catalog, on the other hand, is a well-established electronic spare parts catalog used by many independent repair shops and parts wholesalers. It contains millions of product entries, cross-references to OE numbers, and detailed vehicle assignments.
The interface (API) between the two systems ensures that they can communicate with each other technically. Instead of manually transferring data via copy and paste or having to re-enter an item number multiple times, Dolphin transfers the entire shopping cart directly to CATAMA. There, the items are assigned exactly to the right order, the right vehicle, and the right customer.
How does the technical integration work?
The API operates in the background according to a clearly defined data standard. The process follows a fixed pattern:
- In the CATAMA order, the vehicle is selected (HSN/TSN or VIN).
- A single click opens the Dolphin parts catalog—the vehicle data is included.
- You can search for parts in the catalog and add items to your shopping cart.
- Clicking the "Import" button will transfer all items, including their prices and descriptions, back to the CATAMA order.
This completely eliminates the media break. The CATAMA software’s interfaces with suppliers and e-commerce platforms form a comprehensive ecosystem into which Dolphin integrates seamlessly.
Why an API interface to the parts catalog is essential
Today, auto repair shops are operating with ever-tighter margins while facing increasingly demanding customer expectations. Those who can only provide a quote after several hours often lose the job to a competitor. A direct connection to the parts catalog is therefore not just a “nice-to-have,” but a critical competitive advantage.
“Every minute a service representative spends typing at the counter is a minute they aren’t available to assist the customer.”
The key benefits at a glance
| Area | Without an API interface | Using the CATAMA Dolphin API |
|---|---|---|
| Entry per item | 60–90 seconds | 5–10 seconds |
| Error rate for part numbers | high | close to zero |
| Price Accuracy | to check manually | Updated daily from Dolphin |
| Ordering Process | recorded multiple times | one-time, passed directly through |
| Order Documentation | incomplete | fully digital |
Concrete time savings in everyday workshop operations
An average repair shop with five employees processes about 40 to 60 jobs per week. With 8 to 15 items per order, this quickly adds up to 400 to 900 individual items. With the API connection, the time spent on data entry alone is reduced from several workdays per month to just a few hours. A detailed look at how auto repair shops save time and money with CATAMA Software reveals the full potential for savings.
How CATAMA Works with an Interface (API) to the Dolphin Parts Catalog: A Detailed Overview
To ensure these benefits are realized in practice, it’s worth taking a closer look at the individual functional modules. The interface is more than just a data channel—it’s a well-designed workflow.
Vehicle data as a key
It all starts with the vehicle. CATAMA transmits the most important identifying characteristics to Dolphin:
- HSN/TSN (Manufacturer Code Number and Type Code Number)
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- First registration and engine type
- KBA data for narrowing down the variants
The guide to HSN, TSN, and KBA codes provides a detailed explanation of how important this data is for correct part allocation.
Search, Selection, and Shopping Cart
In the Dolphin catalog, users navigate through the familiar interface: assemblies, exploded views, OEM cross-references, and aftermarket alternatives. When an item is selected, it is added to the shopping cart. Multiple items can be added without having to switch back to CATAMA in between.
Return to the CATAMA order
Once the search is complete, the results are returned via API. The following data is included:
- Part number (supplier number and, if applicable, OE number)
- Product Name
- Purchase price and selling price
- Unit of measure and quantity
- Deposit or scrap tax, if applicable
Speaking of the used-car tax: The guide to the used-car tax in the automotive industry explains how to calculate it correctly.
Order directly from the work order
Once the items have been entered into the order, a purchase order can be generated directly from CATAMA and sent to the parts supplier. The ordering system is seamlessly integrated into the inventory management system, ensuring that inventory levels, incoming goods, and open orders remain transparent at all times.
Benefits for Auto Repair Shops and Car Dealerships
The integration isn't just for service advisors—it benefits the entire company. From foremen to warehouse managers to the accounting department, every department stands to gain.
For the service advisor
- Faster quotes right at the counter
- Current prices and delivery times during customer meetings
- Fewer follow-up questions, less rework
- More time for actual customer service
For the workshop manager
- Improved capacity planning through timely order approvals
- Transparent cost breakdown for each order
- Less downtime for vehicles because parts are ordered more quickly
For accounting
- Accurate transaction data without manual follow-up
- Automatic transfer to billing
- Simplified interfaces to DATEV and e-invoicing
The right automotive accounting software, featuring a DATEV interface and e-invoicing capabilities, completes the end-to-end process.
For the automotive retail industry
Retailers also benefit: Those who recondition used or new cars can calculate the costs of add-on parts, repair parts, and accessories directly via the API. The specialized automotive software for the automotive retail industry provides more details.
Setup and Technical Requirements
Activating CATAMA with the API interface to the Dolphin parts catalog is pleasantly straightforward. Since CATAMA runs as a cloud-based solution, no server installations are required.
Overview of Requirements
- CATAMA license – ideally starting with the CATAMA Professional Suite for full functionality
- Active Dolphin account with valid login credentials
- Stable internet connection (cloud architecture)
- Up-to-date web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox—the latest version of each)
Setup steps
Activation takes just a few minutes:
- Logging in to CATAMA with administrator privileges
- Opening the Interface Configuration
- Enter your Dolphin login credentials (username, password, client ID)
- Test connection
- User activation
If you have any questions , please contact the CATAMA Cloud software support team.
Employee training
Even though the system is intuitive to use, a brief training session is worthwhile. Experience shows that employees become confident in using it after 30 to 60 minutes of hands-on practice. Typical scenarios, such as direct intake, repair orders, or warranty claims, should be walked through during this session. The guide on the importance of direct intake in automotive service provides valuable insights for optimizing the workflow.
CATAMA with an API interface to the Dolphin parts catalog compared to other integrations
Dolphin is not the only parts catalog interface offered by CATAMA. Rather, it is part of a broad portfolio of interfaces that can be combined depending on the company’s supplier structure.
Overview of Available Interfaces
| Interface | Target audience | Key benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphin | Independent repair shops, wholesale | extensive product database |
| Stakis / Stahlgruber | Multi-brand dealerships | established wholesaler |
| Partslink24 | Authorized Dealerships | OEM data from many manufacturers |
| WMKAT | independent repair shops | Repair Cost Estimate |
| Repdoc | Workshops | Work values and parts |
| Mercedes-Benz WebParts | Mercedes Service Partner | Genuine OEM Parts |
When is the Dolphin integration particularly worthwhile?
The Dolphin interface is particularly useful when the operation:
- works primarily with aftermarket parts
- serves multiple vehicle brands
- places a high priority on having a large product database
- already uses Dolphin as a procurement platform
When combined with other interfaces, hybrid scenarios can also be implemented—for example, when OE parts are sourced through Partslink24 for certain brands, while aftermarket parts are sourced through Dolphin for independent repairs.
Real-world example: A typical workday with the integration
To make the theory more tangible, here is a concrete example from the day-to-day operations of a medium-sized independent auto repair shop with three lifts.
Monday, 8:15 a.m.: A customer brings in his VW Golf for a service. The service advisor scans the vehicle registration, and CATAMA automatically creates a record for the vehicle—including the HSN, TSN, and VIN. With a single click, Dolphin opens directly with the correct vehicle data.
8:18 a.m.: Oil filters, air filters, cabin air filters, and engine oil are selected from the catalog. The shopping cart is transferred back to CATAMA with the click of a button.
8:20 a.m.: All items and their prices are listed in the order. The consultant adds the work items from the catalog. The quote is ready in five minutes and is emailed to the customer.
8:35 a.m.: The customer confirms with a click. The order is automatically sent to the supplier.
11:00 a.m.: The parts have arrived, and the mechanic begins work. The process is thoroughly documented, and the vehicle's history is fully recorded.
What used to take 30 minutes of data entry time can now be completed in under seven minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CATAMA-Dolphin Integration
Can I use the interface even without a Premium license?
The interface is generally available in the higher-tier CATAMA editions. A look at the CATAMA software solutions and prices for 2026 will clarify which modules are included in each edition.
How much does the connection cost?
The API integration itself is included in the relevant CATAMA editions. However, the standard Dolphin usage fees charged by the catalog provider still apply. The investment typically pays for itself within a few weeks, solely through the time saved.
Are prices and inventory levels updated in real time?
Yes. Since the API accesses Dolphin in real time, prices and availability are up to date at the time of retrieval. This helps prevent miscalculations.
Can the interface be combined with others?
Of course. CATAMA has an open architecture and can run multiple catalog and supplier interfaces simultaneously. This is a major advantage, especially for multi-brand and mixed-brand businesses.
How secure is the data?
CATAMA is operated in certified data centers in Germany. Data transmission to the Dolphin API is encrypted. Further details are set forth in the CATAMA Automotive Software Privacy Policy.
Tips for getting the most out of the interface
To ensure that the investment in digital connectivity yields the greatest possible impact, it is worth implementing a few supporting measures.
Maintain master data accurately
Even the best interface is useless if customer and vehicle master data are incomplete. Consistent maintenance of the central vehicle and customer management system is essential.
Standardize workflows
Anyone who follows the same procedure—open the vehicle, launch Dolphin, import the shopping cart, and place the order—works faster and makes fewer mistakes. A brief internal work instruction provides clarity.
Use reports
CATAMA provides detailed reports on sales, margins, and order trends. These should be analyzed regularly to improve purchasing terms and identify slow-moving inventory.
Involve employees
Even the best software is useless if users don't embrace it. Workshops, short training sessions, and being open to suggestions for improvement pay off. Often, the best ideas for improvement come directly from the team.
Economic Perspective: Return on Investment
Investing in modern workshop software with the Dolphin API usually pays for itself very quickly. Here is a simplified example calculation:
- Five employees enter 8 orders each day, with 6 items in each order
- Time saved per item: approx. 50 seconds
- Daily savings: 5 × 8 × 6 × 50 sec. = 12,000 seconds = 200 minutes = 3.3 hours
- Monthly savings (20 working days): approx. 66 hours
- At an internal hourly rate of 45 euros: 2,970 euros per month
Even if only half of these theoretical savings are realized, they will more than cover the software costs. The free hourly rate calculator for auto repair shops allows you to accurately calculate your own hourly rate.
Outlook for the Future: AI, OCR, and Automated Workflows
The integration of the Dolphin parts catalog is just one component. CATAMA is constantly evolving. Intelligent vehicle data capture using OCR technology, which automatically analyzes vehicle registration documents, is already available today. Combined with the API connection to Dolphin, this creates a nearly fully automated data capture process: Scan – Master Data – Parts Search – Order – Purchase Order. In the coming years, AI-powered features will enable further efficiency gains, such as parts recommendations based on past repairs or predictive inventory management.
Conclusion and Next Steps
CATAMA’s interface (API) with the Dolphin parts catalog is more than just a technical detail—it’s a strategic tool for boosting efficiency, reducing errors, and increasing customer satisfaction in auto repair shops and dealerships. Anyone who still types in part numbers manually today is wasting money and valuable consultation time.
Next steps:
- Current status: How many items are currently entered manually each day? Which suppliers are the most important?
- Assess your needs: Is Dolphin a good fit for your supplier structure? What other interfaces would be useful?
- Request a demo: A free trial of the Cloud Workshop software will give you a hands-on experience.
- Involve employees: Communicate and provide training early on to ensure high levels of acceptance within the team from the very beginning.
- Get started with a clear roadmap: a phased rollout, supported by CATAMA.
The digitization of everyday workshop operations is no longer a distant dream—it is already a reality. Those who set the course now will significantly expand their lead over the competition in the coming years.
