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Implementing a fleet management system doesn't require a lot of time or complex infrastructure. Simply install a GPS tracker and the necessary additional devices on your vehicle and you'll have access to the fleet management platform. You can access it anytime and anywhere from a web browser or mobile app, as long as your device is connected to the internet. The fleet management platform is also user-friendly, making it easy to understand and use.
However, transforming fleet management from manual to digital isn't without its challenges. Not all your fleet crew members may be comfortable with this advancement, or even familiar with technology and own smartphones. You should communicate this change first to your drivers, as they are the frontline of your fleet. Here are six tips for communicating the implementation of GPS vehicle tracking technology to your drivers.
1. Communicate your plans openly upfront.
Announce to the drivers that you and the management team have decided to begin digitising fleet management. Explain that this digitisation process requires the installation of IoT devices—such as GPS trackers, fuel sensors, remote starter cut-off switches, cargo door sensors, and any other equipment you require—on every vehicle. If you also decide to use a task assignment app, clearly outline your plan; for instance, specify whether you will provide mobile phones and data plans for each driver or utilise the drivers' own smartphones with some form of compensation.
Communicating your plans to implement a GPS tracking-based fleet management system will help build trust and acceptance from the start of the process.
2. Tell the drivers the benefits
Communicate with drivers how GPS vehicle tracking technology can make their jobs easier, improve safety, and even keep them out of trouble. For example, if a road user reports your driver was speeding, you can check the driver's trip history and defend your driver based on the data if the report doesn't support the driver's actions.
Another example is to address a complaint about an insufficient shipment quantity. You can provide an explanation to the customer based on the cargo door opening and closing history (where a door sensor has been installed). You can read about the full benefits of GPS vehicle tracking technology for drivers here.
3. Tell the benefits to other departments and your business
Communicate the issues other departments and your business face with manual fleet management. For example, customer service is unable to respond quickly to delivery progress and vehicle locations, as well as inefficient reporting and vehicle maintenance. Explain how digital fleet management helps solve these problems. For businesses, these technological advancements improve the reliability of fleet services, thereby increasing customer satisfaction, improving the company's reputation and profitability.
This GPS tracking-based fleet management technology streamlines time and workflow, increases visibility of vehicles and cargo, and minimises the risk of loss.
4. Show how it works
To actively participate in implementing this fleet management technology, your drivers need to understand how it works. Provide them with training to show them how the fleet management system generally works and what they should do. If you're using an assignment app, teach them the steps and ensure they understand them before implementing the technology. Training is key to helping drivers feel comfortable working with this GPS-based fleet management technology.
5. Give appreciation for good performance and training when necessary
One advantage of fleet management digitalisation is that the management team can provide more objective, data-driven performance assessments. The system can evaluate driving safety and idle time—accounting for factors such as distance travelled, vehicle misuse, start and end times, and the number of on-schedule deliveries completed. Consequently, you can consider bonuses and other benefits based on individual performance.
Additionally, you'll also know if any of your drivers frequently work overtime, allowing you to re-evaluate workload allocation or consider hiring more staff. For drivers with low driving safety levels, you can facilitate targeted training. Training can be tailored to each driver's individual needs, taking into account the Driving Safety Report data automatically provided by the system.
6. Build the right perception as a team
GPS vehicle tracking technology will help improve driver discipline and productivity. Emphasise that this is not due to a lack of trust in drivers, but rather to improve the quality of fleet service to ensure business continuity. In this era of Industry 4.0, companies must embark on digital transformation to stay ahead of the times and survive in the fierce competition. Good service and fleet management will keep your business running, and your employees can maintain their livelihoods.
The implementation of this technology requires the role of all employees to be involved as a team, because this technology brings benefits to several different departments and makes inter-departmental collaboration smoother. Adapting to a new system requires cooperation from various stakeholders. Establishing communication is crucial to avoid misunderstandings. Be open about the changes and involve your drivers in every step of the process as part of a team working together to advance the company.
Drivers, managers, operators, and even HR/GA can benefit from implementing a GPS-based fleet management system. This technology isn't just for location tracking; it's a comprehensive and integrated system that makes fleet management more efficient. Want to start digitising your fleet management with a GPS tracking system? Contact us here and get a FREE DEMO from the Cartrack team!
