GPS tracking devices work together with the software in a GPS fleet tracking system so that it becomes very easy for real-time updates and notifications to be provided back to a central headquarters area. This information is gathered by sensors within the vehicle and sent back to an operator at headquarters, and it can be used to make the most efficient use of all vehicles out in the field. Some of the information provided relates to whether or not vehicles are operating on an optimal basis, as well as whether or not drivers are consistently reaching assigned destinations in a manner, which is considered to be both timely and safe.
How GPS Tracking Devices Collect Data
There are three primary methods by which data is collected in any GPS tracking system, those being driver input, various diagnostic plug-ins, and the Global Positioning System itself. The position of a vehicle is determined by at least three separate satellites using a process called trilateration, which is capable of pinpointing the location of a vehicle to a very accurate degree.
When used in tandem with GPS fleet tracking software, a GPS tracking device is more than capable of monitoring vehicle location and a whole host of other data points. Some very important metrics can also be gathered on driver behavior, engine performance, vehicle speed, and the vehicle’s progress toward its destination.
When fleet managers have this kind of information made available to them, it’s much easier to make important decisions regarding the taking of optimal routes, asset availability and utilization, and the various maintenance needs of all vehicles in the fleet.
Importance of GPS Tracking to Fleet Management Companies
GPS tracking can be absolutely critical to a number of fleet management companies because the data provided will allow for much better decision-making and therefore much better fleet management in general. One of the ways that GPS tracking helps out a fleet management company is in the area of improved productivity for both driver and vehicle.
With the information provided to central headquarters, a company will have the insights and all the tools necessary to optimize driver production, while also minimizing the idle time between job assignments. Driver and dispatch interactions can also be streamlined, while communications are being improved between the road and the office, so there are no misunderstandings which lead to errors on the road.
GPS tracking devices also minimize the time drivers spend in between assignments, and that has the effect of maximizing their output and increasing profitability for the business. Another way that GPS tracking helps fleet management is to provide a number of insights into driver behavior and vehicle behavior because both can have a major impact on a company’s bottom line.
Assistance with a Cost-Saving Business Model
It’s a very basic principle that any business model which relies on reducing operational and maintenance costs will save money in the long run. GPS tracking can help with this model because diagnostics are provided about each vehicle so that an in-depth look into fleet performance can be obtained. A user-friendly software platform will provide information so that decisions can be made on fuel reduction, improved safety, and can also enhance customer satisfaction.
It’s no secret that staying connected to each vehicle in your fleet can be crucial for your business, and advancements in GPS tracking technology have now made it possible to manage the vehicles of a fleet from literally any location. GPS tracking will allow for constant access to fleet location through any kind of mobile device, and alerts can notify operators that specific vehicles are idling too long, or are engaged in unauthorized usage or stops.
With this kind of constant communication and monitoring, fleet management is empowered to be much more competitive, and to make decisions which are based on real-time data, and are therefore much more current and more valid.
Safety and Security of the Fleet
Safety is another area that GPS tracking can help with improvement for the vehicles of any fleet. Fleet managers have the capability through GPS tracking to monitor the safety behavior of all vehicles, for instance, speeding and hard braking, so that these behaviors can be discouraged in favor of more beneficial behaviors.
Some fleet management systems are extremely sophisticated and are capable of providing dashboards that are both user-friendly and extremely data-rich in their user displays. It’s a fairly simple matter for any fleet manager to identify specific issues and problem areas, and then to take appropriate actions which reduce any safety risks, and contribute toward vehicle depreciation.
It’s also possible to use safety event replay capabilities, so that managers can discourage unsafe driving habits, and can provide coaching for fleet drivers, which can be very useful in improving their performance and in making them better drivers.
Maintaining Compliance with Federal Agencies
Another big area where GPS tracking can be extremely important to fleet managers is in the area of compliance with regulations issued by federal governing bodies. GPS tracking devices are capable of funneling all data through one platform so they can be appropriately analyzed and monitored.
This is a boon to fleet managers and fleet management companies, because it reduces administrative work tremendously, at the same time that it helps to ensure compliance with all regulations issued by the Department of Transportation and Federal Motor Carrier Safety. While assuring compliance is one of the most useful impacts of GPS tracking devices, there can be positive contributions to other departments within a fleet management company as well.
Maintaining compliance with federal agencies also helps to lower any risk of incurring fines, it encourages trust among your clients, and it also helps to enhance vehicle maintenance. All these contributions to various departments in your company can help them operate more smoothly, they can lead to longer life and better performance of your vehicles, and in general, they can provide a better return on investment for your company.
