Key Elements of a Successful Telematics Implementation
When choosing the best telematics system one should consider both the customer experience as well as the robustness of the hardware. There are many great service providers available today and a fleet's best option may vary based on their specific needs.
When evaluating hardware, my recommendation is to ensure that the technology leverages CANbus data, providing devices that are not simply pulling power from the connection port but reading and interpreting the available data-stream. This unlocks loads of rich data, from seat belt engagement to low tire status. This data-set also includes accurate, real-time odometer readings, a fundamental data point for fleets that we know can be fraught with errors when collected at the fuel pump or manually entered.
Other key options to evaluate include:
Is my data easily accessible? A great system will provide you with secure, free and open access to their data via API.
Does the solution cover all asset types? This can be achieved through a combination of core offerings as well as integrated products and services.
What kind of support can I expect from my provider? Top tier providers will allocate a dedicated resource to each fleet, allowing them to learn and respond to specific fleet needs.
Customer support is arguably just as important as selecting the right hardware. We know that a truly successful implementation requires a partnership between the fleet and provider. Skilled telematics providers will highly recommend an implementation and onboarding process that will guide a fleet to the best features, reports, and notifications to improve operations and positively impact the bottom line.
Fleets should be prepared to dedicate time and resources to the initial account set-up, this effort will pay off month over month with the delivery of actionable data-insights for ongoing fleet optimization.
Fleet managers should identify pain-points and areas for improvement, and readily share that information with their prospective telematics partners. Even without the granularity of telematics data, fleet managers are often aware of at least a few key performance areas they’d like to improve, such as idle times, data gaps, underutilized vehicles, etc. If a fleet manager can identify and openly communicate their greatest needs based on what they know about their operations, telematics providers can match them with hardware and software tools to gain further insight, validate their suspicions, and identify actions that can result in cost-savings and operational efficiencies.
Please visit this Case Study about the California Department of Conservation fleet to see how the right solution and right provider can result in immediate fleet payback.
