BEDFORD, TEXAS, Feb. 6, 2006 - In order to meet the technological demands of students and faculty, the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) has launched a redesigned Web site, utilizing the latest in Internet technology. The new site, accessed at www.AMIonline.org, features a new look, easy navigation and several unique interactive elements.

As one of the Institute's most accessed resources, the new AMI Web site now specifically serves a variety of audiences including current and prospective students, alumni, instructors, partners and media. After nearly a year of planning and collaboration, the site's 1,000-plus pages have been updated with a new look, including the Institute's course calendar, online catalog and informational sections.

The core of the newly redesigned site is the ability for students and alumni to access their class transcripts online. Using a unique student ID and user-created password, a student can see what classes have been taken, the number of credits he or she has accumulated, and how many more credits are needed for graduation. In addition, students and alumni may change their student profile information online.

AMI has also implemented instant messaging technology throughout its site. With the click of a mouse button, visitors are instantly connected with an AMI representative to answer any questions about the Institute. This new live chat feature does not require the user to have additional software.

The Institute has also created audience-specific blogs for the exchange of management tips, discussion and ideas. Blogs have been created for AMI students, alumni and partners, and instructors. Blog content is updated bi-monthly and features the ability for visitors to leave comments and suggestions.

AMI instructors are among the most qualified and respected professionals in the industry. To that end, AMI's new Web site prominently features its instructors, including bios, photos and contact information.

AMI Executive Director Toni Slaton, AAM, stated, "The objective was to develop an easy-to-navigate, informative Web site for our many audiences. The site's new interactive feature that gives students the ability to view their transcripts online is very exciting, as this information - typically sent by traditional mail - is now delivered within seconds."

"The Web site's instant messaging technology tool helps visitors who need additional assistance or information. Visitors can also use this tool to let us know how we're doing, and make suggestions and recommendations for improvement," said AMI Chairman John Francis, AAM.

AMI first established an Internet presence in 1998. Since then, the Web site has expanded its content and has experienced increased traffic on a monthly basis. This is the first redesign of the site since 2001.

AMI was established to answer the demand for continuing education tailored specifically for the business needs of the automotive service industry. The Institute offers the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation, the first business management accreditation exclusively for the automotive service professional. To date, AMI programs have attracted more than 132,000 enrollments throughout North America. AMI is a not-for-profit educational foundation to which tax-deductible contributions can be made. For more information about the Institute, its curriculum, or EXCEL, please contact AMI at (800) 272-7467 ext. 241, or visit the AMI Web site at www.amionline.org.