Navigating fleet tracking: A comprehensive guide to GPS and telematics in fleet tracking
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Vehicle tracking systems incorporating GPS and telematics technology offer enhanced fleet management solutions. Discover how they can work for your fleet.
Navigating fleet tracking: A comprehensive guide to GPS and telematics in fleet tracking
GPS, telematics, and other advanced options are among the features of vehicle tracking systems that have evolved in the last digitally driven decade. This comprehensive guide explores the functionalities and benefits of both technologies, assisting fleet managers in navigating the various options available. By understanding their applications and strengths, managers can make informed decisions to optimise operations and enhance efficiency.
GPS and telematics in a nutshell
GPS is the helpmate of telematics, as it provides the where and when to telematics’ who, what, why, and how. Telematics is dependent on GPS for precision when plotting the data that is sent to the hub regarding specific vehicles.
GPS indicates where vehicles are on their routes and how long it takes them to complete them. Telematics indicate whether a vehicle is speeding, braking, parked, or turned off, and when combined with bolt-on technology such as inward-facing dash cams, whether the driver is distracted or fatigued.
A closer look at GPS and telematics
Fleet tracking technology works by integrating GPS, telematics, and fleet management software to collect data in real time. The various components of vehicle tracking systems such as Crystal Ball’s FleetTracker include:
GPS hardware: The GPS device installed in each of the vehicles sends data to fleet management software in real time via cellular or satellite networks.
Telematics hardware: The telematics device installed in each vehicle logs location data from the GPS tracker and collects vehicle performance data and, in some cases, driver performance data using various sensors and onboard electronics. This data is transmitted to fleet management software in real time.
Alerts and reporting software: This software creates alerts for critical events such as speeding, harsh braking, or other driver behaviours, and generates reports about various actions for fleet managers.
Fleet management software: The fleet management software receives the GPS and telematics data described above, processes it, and presents it in a user-friendly interface to fleet managers.
The benefits of vehicle tracking systems
GPS and telematics technology are used in vehicle tracking systems such as FleetTracker. These systems help enhance productivity and efficiency, safety and fleet optimisation, compliance and sustainability, driver behaviour, and fleet managers’ savings.
Geo-searches and data reports generated by vehicle tracking systems can be used to benchmark current results and live vehicle tracking. Fleet managers can then use these benchmarks to streamline future routes, reduce fuel costs, and increase productivity and efficiency.
Fleet managers can also use this advanced combination of GPS and telematics technology to cut down on unauthorised vehicle use. FleetTracker’s geofencing function allows managers to create boundaries. If a driver directs a vehicle across a geofence, the fleet tracking device will alert both the driver and the manager.
FleetTracker’s Share Location function makes it easy to share vehicle locations with third parties. In addition to sharing the location of specific vehicles with other managers when necessary, fleet managers can update customers regarding delivery times for greater customer satisfaction.
When combined with a Crystal Ball inward-facing dash cam bolt-on, FleetTracker is a powerful tool for driver coaching. Fleet managers and drivers will be alerted to poor driving behaviour. Managers can address these issues with the relevant drivers by providing coaching, and they can use this information to proactively plan for vehicle maintenance.
Fleet tracking technology leveraging GPS and telematics goes beyond simply knowing where vehicles are at any given time. Instead, it does nothing short of revolutionise fleet management for greater efficiency, innovation, and a strong ROI.
