For many years, fleet management software was considered to be exclusive to huge vehicle fleets and massive corporations. Although this could be debated, the growing accessibility to the high-end fleet management solutions of today is undeniable. As with all technologies, the digital tools behind fleet management systems have evolved to be easier to use and more affordable to own.
Using the latest fleet management software, owners and managers are able to streamline, automate and update every aspect of your fleet operations. These systems allow you to monitor and track the movements of every vehicle and determine whether drivers and vehicles are operating safely. This includes route optimisation, fuel management and video monitoring – just to name a few.
This is only the beginning of what vehicle telematics can do for you, let us take a look at the various benefits of fleet management systems and what to consider when investing in them.
The Benefits of Investing in a Fleet Management System?
Remote fleet management from a central digital hub
No matter the size of your vehicle fleet, there is a complex balance required between the different aspects of fleet operations. It can be tough to manage these effectively on your own, however, integrating fleet management software will allow you to monitor every aspect of your fleet operations from a single screen. Remote fleet management from a central digital hub has been a game changer for the transportation industry and fleet managers.
Improve vehicle reliability and maintenance
Using modern vehicle and video telematics, fleet managers are able to monitor the performance of every vehicle and the on-road practises of your drivers. You are also able to better monitor the maintenance needs and avoid unnecessary breakdowns. A vehicle’s longevity is dependent on a variety of important data points, such as tyre wear and tear, brake usage and dependability, mileage, oil changes and many other road worthiness measures.
Better driver safety and behaviour
One of the more difficult aspects of fleet management was the inability to monitor drivers once they left their base of operations. Intelligent video telematics utilise on-board camera systems to monitor driver behaviour and capture vehicle safety and performance on the road. Video telematics can be used to advance driver training methods and notify managers of any unsafe driving being done by their employees.
Route optimisation
Fleet management systems are able to collect and interpret huge amounts of data at any given time. This includes the ability to optimise route selection and improve route adherence across your vehicle fleet. Scheduling, mapping, fuel consumption and delivery destinations are all considered when these systems improve route optimisation.
Real-time communications and notifications
The growing number of IoT devices proliferating the marketplace and growing data accessibility and coverage across South Africa has meant that real-time communications, notifications and alerts are available for fleet managers and drivers. The latest and greatest fleet management solutions will always include a communications component to their systems that allow for immediate notifications and alerts on vehicle progress.
4 Things to Consider Before Investing in Fleet Management Software
Fleet management systems should be multidimensional, easy-to-use, all-encompassing, and scalable, all the while staying within your budget. Here are four important considerations for any owners or managers before investing in a fleet management system:
- Pricing
Do not, under any circumstances, buy the first fleet management solution you see. Even if it is a high-end and all-inclusive fleet management system, it may include unnecessary features and exorbitant costs. Make sure that your fleet management solution includes all digital and physical tools you require (and no more) at a reasonable price that fits within your budget.
- Scalability of the system
The transportation industry is still growing rapidly – in South Africa and around the world – and it is safe to assume your vehicle fleet business is growing too. Your fleet management system needs to be scalable and can evolve alongside with your company; do not invest in a solution that cannot keep up with your progress and growth rate.
- User support and customer service
Once you have considered the cost and scalability of the system, you need to consider the additional customer service and support options of your fleet management solution provider. Do they have call-out options, installation specialists, helplines and guidance for use? These are critical for ensuring your fleet management solution works for you – and as intended.
- Easy-to-use tools and the right features
Owners and managers need to consider what features are necessary for your unique operational needs and fleet requirements. Not to mention, those tools and software features need to be easy to use and manageable in house. The more complex and expensive a system is, the more likely it is to require expert users.
Some Final Thoughts
You need to start with a solution that suits your vehicle fleet’s management needs and operational requirements. Highly-scalable, affordable, easy-to-use and well-supported fleet management systems are out there. Make sure your chosen solution is reliable, easily integrated and cost-effective, with a centralised interface that improves organisational communication. Investigate each solution’s capabilities and benefits; ensuring they will help your vehicle fleet company grow.
If your transportation or logistics company is looking to invest in the latest fleet management solutions and vehicle telematics to help your business improve fleet safety and performance, speak to one of our expert consultants at Landmark Tracking.