Managing a work truck fleet can be a daunting task. Simply knowing a truck’s location and its operator can be difficult. One way to better manage a fleet of work trucks is to install GPS monitoring devices. Using GPS monitoring devices provides companies with real time location and operation data.
HOW THEY HELP
Reduce costs. One of the biggest benefits of using GPS monitoring is that costs are greatly reduced if the devices are used correctly. With GPS monitoring, companies can ensure their drivers are using optimal routes. Faster routes mean less fuel is needed, and that equates to money saved. Faster routes also lead to better response times, which improves service. Without a centralized GPS monitoring solution, these benefits would be hard to come by.
Improve safety. With a GPS monitoring device, companies can track the driving habits of their employees. Most GPS monitoring devices allow for the tracking of speed in addition to location and other items. Companies can see, in real time, how fast their employees are driving and can use that information to determine whether to take corrective measures. This protects both the company and the driver. Imagine if the driver were speeding and got into an accident. This would expose the firm to legal fees, medical fees, and repair fees for the vehicle. Using a GPS monitoring device would allow the company to track the employee’s driving behavior and preemptively work with the employee to exercise greater caution when driving. Preventing the accident helps the employer save money, and more importantly, ensures the employee and other motorists are safe.
IMPLEMENTATION TIPS
One of the biggest challenges of using GPS monitoring devices on work trucks is in implementation. An unsuccessful implementation can truly hamper effectiveness. Therefore, it is important that the implementation is handled with great care and planning. Here are some helpful tips to ensure a successful implementation:
Why GPS? Not all employees will be open to the idea of having the trucks equipped with GPS monitoring devices. Some may have privacy concerns, while others may take it as a slight that they are tracked. Therefore, it is important to explain why the company has decided to use GPS monitoring devices. Explain the benefits, cost reductions, improvements in safety, and increased production. Listen to their concerns, but let them know the devices are used to help them just as much as they help the company.
Designate a point person. Designating an individual to serve as the point person for the GPS monitoring-related issues will greatly help the implementation process. This way, one person is responsible for the installation on trucks and employee training. Having this person stay on top of all GPS monitoring-related tasks streamlines the process of GPS management. Centralizing the role will make it easier for everyone.
Follow-up. Once implemented, it is imperative that companies follow-up with everyone to get a feel for how things are going. Are the devices working properly? Is there a reduction in costs? Are drivers displaying better driving habits? Hearing from all of the stakeholders allows companies to determine whether the devices are working for everyone and if GPS monitoring was a worthwhile investment.
The tough part with managing a truck fleet is that there so many vehicles to manage. Companies must account for and maintain each of them. When employees take them out for work, companies may not always know where they are and what’s happening to them. With GPS monitoring devices on work trucks, employers can see—in real time—where their trucks are located. In most cases, employers will find that the trucks are where they are supposed be, but it’s always nice to have reassurance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eric Goldstein is the president of C/F Data Systems. With more than a quarter of a century of experience in the construction software arena, Eric has led C/F Data’s ongoing development of the company’s flagship solution, STRUCTURE.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS: JUNE 2018 ISSUE
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