Fleet Monitoring: A Better Management System

Fleet monitoring, where managers can use data received from GPS trackers to get real-time reports on drivers, is proving a popular option for mobile workforces. It can help them better use their fleet vehicles, help keep drivers safe and help improve security.

But is fleet monitoring a good management system?

Before installing a fleet monitoring system on your vehicles why not take a few minutes to understand how it can be used to manage workers and assets.

How does fleet monitoring work?

Fleet monitoring is basically a way to track the activity of a company’s mobile assets, normally using a GPS unit fitted to the vehicle (or whatever equipment is being tracked). The GPS unit regularly transmits its location using a built-in cellular or satellite connection. Most vehicle units will transmit every two minutes but it can be more frequent, if required.

This location data (or other data such as vehicle trouble codes) is sent to an internet server, where the information can then be processed and displayed to managers via a secure website.

The GPS location data is accurate to within approximately one meter, however, it can be affected by interference due to the vehicle being underground or problems with signal accuracy, such as urban canyoning. In these cases, the location can be approximated based on the direction, speed and road taken by the vehicle.

The processed vehicle data is used by fleet managers to get a clear picture of what everyone is doing, either in real time or historically. This information can then be used to help mobile workers use their time more productively and be more responsive to customer requests.

Information collected by vehicle GPS units (also known as ‘black boxes’) can vary depending on the vehicle type, the fleet monitoring system being used and software settings. Some data collected is very specific to the job. For example, a fleet monitoring system may use door sensors and temperature monitors to maintain the integrity of a cold chain delivery service, such as employed by FreshDirect.

What are the benefits of using fleet monitoring?

Fleet monitoring helps a business use its resources in the most profitable way possible. It promotes an organized approach to work that improves efficiency, instead of the stressful chaos normally associated with a poorly run business.

Fleet monitoring has proven to reduce fleet costs and miles driven while improving overall safety.¹

Expected benefits include a 25% drop in fuel costs, a 10% reduction in miles driven and a 15% increase in productivity.

How difficult is it to setup fleet monitoring?

Adding a fleet monitoring system to your mobile workforce is now a lot easier thanks to the growing number of built-in hardware options, from a range of car and truck makers.

It can make the whole process as simple as logging into a website - there’s nothing to install, no downtime for your vehicles and no technicians needed.

The fleet monitoring software itself is fully web-based so there’s no IT involvement to manage software updates or data backups.

If you’d like someone to talk you through the steps involved, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

¹ Benefits After Effective Deployment of Fleet Management System” Frost & Sullivan 2015