If you list the top advancements in the field of fleet management today, telematics will be among the top three, and rightfully so. Telematics allows fleet managers to use a strategic combination of technology to get information on their vehicle’s location, usage, servicing needs, condition and performance in real time.
The technology has revolutionized fleet management forever, and telematics providers have a huge advantage in being the ones to help managers implement this technology.
But how do telematics providers enhance fleet management? How does a solution like Trackunit, which offers a unified dashboard for fleet management, make the job simpler for fleet managers? We answer these questions below.
What do telematics service providers do?
To understand telematics, think about a car’s GPS system. Through a blend of wireless communication and satellite technology, it identifies a vehicle’s location and provides directions. Telematics works the same way but on a larger and more complex scale.
Telematics is a hybrid of two technologies: informatics and telecommunications. Similarly, there are two domains telematics services providers help you with hardware and software.
A typical telematics device has the following components:
- GPS receiver
- Engine interface
- SIM card
- Accelerometer
- Input/output interface (expander port)
- Buzzer
Telematics service providers take care of the entire installation process, from mounting the device on your vehicle to integrating it with your fleet management software. Some modern commercial vehicles come with telematics technologies pre-installed.
Construction equipment OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) can partner with telematics providers to incorporate the technology into their vehicles.
The second thing telematics providers do is offer you a software solution as part of their service, which receives the data sent by the telematics device and translates it into actionable insights for fleet managers.
How to elevate fleet management through telematics service providers
The service provider you use for your fleet can make or break the success of your telematics implementation. Here are some ways you can ensure that your provider elevates your fleet management.
Look for prior expertise
No two fleets are the same. Some are big, while others are small. Similarly, some may be off-road, whereas others may be on-road.
Some telematics providers specialize in a particular type of fleet. It’s best if you select a specialized provider, as they are more likely to meet your unique fleet management needs.
They would have already worked with similar clients before, which gives them a better understanding of the challenges and requirements of your fleet.
Check for integrations
A fleet management system should not work in isolation – it should help your team achieve its main goal.
For construction fleets, software should integrate with the project management system, which may also include other moving parts like the schedule and expenses. When you choose a telematics services provider, ask if they offer integrations with other systems.
Ideally, the telematics system should integrate with the project management software, accounting software, customer relationship management software, etc.
Ensure multiple use cases
A telematics solution with limited use cases won’t do you much good. It also doesn’t offer a fair bang for your buck.
Work with a telematics services provider whose solution has multiple use cases. For example, in construction, the telematics solution should have the following (and more) use cases:
- Equipment location tracking
- Daily tasks and workflow management
- Theft protection
- Site management
- Sustainability monitoring
- Vehicle diagnostics
- Maintenance tracking
- Safety and compliance management
Takeaway
Fleet managers with the right telematics service providers by their side can run safer and more efficient fleets.
They also end up being more cost-effective due to the streamlined operations and reduced downtime. So, take your time when selecting a telematics services provider, and don’t hesitate to clear all your doubts before making a decision.
