How fast is fleet management evolving?
| January 2023 |
The Internet of Things (IoT) has led to more connected, safer vehicles through the use of engine sensors, automation and new tools designed to streamline operations.
With this new technology comes a new world of benefits, including cost savings, improved safety and better compliance. However, as fleets introduce more vehicles and regulations continue to change, the data flood becomes greater and requires more administrative attention from fleet managers.
Fleet managers with cross-departmental responsibilities can’t always be intimately involved in these operations. Analyzing data and identifying opportunities for improved efficiency requires a skill set that’s hard to demand from someone who wears multiple hats.
The key is to select the best Telematics fleet management software partner for your needs. With the right provider, your business can benefit from:
- Less administrative burden
- Access to specialized expertise
- Supplier partnership connections and volume discounts
- Direct connections to OEMs for the latest and best manufacturing information
- Streamlined fleet services, all under one provider
What questions to ask a fleet management system provider?
Here are some crucial questions to ask any fleet management provider you're considering working with:
How is the customer service?
You want to work with a company that you know will pick up the phone if you have a problem. You should be able to reach the help desk through a direct phone number, not an 800 number where you have to go through an endless wait menu. If the fleet management company values customer service, they will provide a direct phone number.
All-Connects has a legendary customer service, and does everything possible to help the customer as quickly and completely as possible, so that no time is wasted.
What fleet services do they offer?
Every fleet is different. Your business needs may be completely different from your competitors, and not every fleet management company will offer the same services. Ask plenty of questions to ensure that the proposed fleet management system can handle everything you need.
All-Connects has various fleet management solutions, which can always be combined to the needs and available budget of the customer. Ask us for an explanation of all possible functionalities, and get an extensive demo of our software packages.
What do their customers say?
Check online reviews on Google and other relevant online sources or ask for customer references. You can also ask your network for recommendations. The company may have case studies and reviews on their website, but these will likely highlight customers who have had positive experiences.
On the All-Connects website we have indeed collected a number of positive use cases , and we can put you in touch with customers who are already working with our fleet management systems in your sector, so that you can listen directly to their practical story and ask questions directly without our intervention. Contact us for more information about this!
What should fleet managers look for in a fleet management software?
Fleet managers should always make sure that they invest in a cloud-based fleet management system. By storing data in the cloud, information can be accessed 24/7/365 from any device and location with an active internet connection. This is especially useful for fleet managers who have to spend a lot of time in the field, but still need to keep an eye on their fleet.
Key features that a company should look for when switching to fleet management software or purchasing one for the first time include:
1 | Automation Tools
Customised in-cab alerts and notifications can inform drivers and fleet managers in real time of route changes, vehicles veering off course and poor driving behaviour.
2 | Data Insights
Having data is one thing. But understanding it and turning it into decisions is critical. Customizable dashboards and reports that use artificial intelligence can flag and anticipate problem areas in advance.
3 | Safety Analysis
Safety is a key component of any fleet management software platform. Understanding where your vehicles are and how they are being operated is essential to maintaining a safe workplace.
4 | Performance measurement
Vehicle performance and utilisation are perhaps one of the most important factors in managing your fleet costs. From performing routine maintenance to detecting vehicle performance issues before they become a problem, fleet management software helps ensure you get the most out of your investment.
Ask for expert help
Do you have any questions after reading this blog and what works for your specific business situation? Contact us directly by phone 03 289 55 35 or click here for more information.
Read our other blogs about Fleet Management:
- Fleet Management. What is it?
- FAQ fleet management
- Challenges for fleet managers
