During the past several years, we’ve all worked hard to make Ford not just a leading automotive company but also a recognized technology company.

With this leadership comes a responsibility we take seriously – to continue making the driving experience a safe experience.  With technologies such as SYNC and MyFord Touch, that means more customers will be able to drive the best way we can advocate, with hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Just as we lead in developing the technology, we must also set the example on how to safely integrate new technologies into our daily drives.  Company policy prohibits the use of all hand-held devices while driving a Ford-owned car.

That’s why we have created an employee campaign we are calling SYNC First.

A recent poll on @Ford Online shows that for those of you with SYNC-equipped cars and trucks, using the phone is by far the most popular use of the technology.  Seventy-five percent of you use SYNC at least most of the time for your in-car phone calls, but a full quarter of you say you are using SYNC to make calls just sometimes, not very frequently or not at all. 

Today, I am asking everyone to make sure your phones are paired and that you are using the technology and encouraging others to use SYNC as well.

To support your efforts to learn more, we’re providing help on how to use the features and how to get answers to some of your more technical questions.  Throughout April and May, we will share information and provide hands-on experiences to encourage you to SYNC First, Then Talk it Up.

In addition, I urge you to take our SYNC online training (Note: this training only available internally).  

This online training will provide an overview and specific information on how to get started.  At the end, it will also send you to register at www.syncmyride.com.  Syncmyride.com is a fantastic resource and where you sign up for subscription-free features like SYNC Traffic, Directions and Information Services or Vehicle Health Report.  You will need your VIN number for registration.

Look for ongoing information on @Ford Online, including answers to the questions you told us are on your minds.  You also will find information that will help you share our leadership story.

Again, let’s make sure we’re talking up our technology.  And more importantly, let’s make sure we’re walking the talk – keeping our hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to Ford and your support for SYNC First.

- Mark