Like any industry in the tech field, it can be easy to get bogged down with jargon pertaining to fleet management, and the terminology can start to get a little confusing.
So to help you sort through it all, we have put together this simple guide.
Telematics vs. Fleet Management Software
As a fleet manager with multiple and complex responsibilities, technologies such as a telematics and fleet management software are available to make your role easier.
The word “telematics” comes from a combination of the words: telecommunications and informatics. This software collects a variety of data that the fleet manager can then use to improve the safety or efficiency of the fleet. Some of that data that may be collected includes:
- Location
- Speed
- Idling time
- Distance traveled
- Driver behaviour
But while all of this information can be very useful, the way in which this data is collected can be difficult to understand and use. This is where fleet management software comes in.
Fleet Management Software
Fleet management software takes the data collected by the telematics system and organizes it into a format that can be easily understood and used. It takes the data and uses it to create reports and alerts that help the fleet manager make decisions to improve the overall efficacy of the fleet.
Some of the administrative aspects that fleet management software helps with includes:
- Vehicle specs
- Maintenance schedules
- Service histories
- Operating expenses
- Driver compliance documents
The information gathered from these reports can help the fleet manager do everything from plan vehicle maintenance to ensuring driver records and licences are up to date.
Terms to Know
The following are a few important terms that it will be useful to know when navigating the world of fleet management technology.
- Third Party – the ability to connect fleet management technology with other devices so they can be used together to seamlessly collect data.
- OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer - the company that made the equipment.
- ELD – Electronic Logging Device – these devices are used in North America to automatically record a driver’s hours and ensure they don’t go over the maximum Hours of Service (HOS).
- GPS Tracking – Global Positioning System that tracks on a map where a vehicle is.
- Dash Cams – Cameras placed on the dashboard of a vehicle that can provide driver feedback and potentially collect information that can be useful in determining the cause of an accident.
- Odometer – device that measures the distance that a vehicle has traveled.
- Geofencing – a technology that allows fleet manager to set virtual boundaries on a map and that send an alert to the manager if a vehicle travels outside those boundaries. This can also let them know when a driver has reached a client’s premises.
- Remote diagnostics – sends an alert when there is a problem with a vehicle and includes service recommendations. This allows the manager to schedule a service right away, order parts, and plan for downtime.
How we can help
Trux Solutions is a premier supplier of telematics and fleet management software. If you are looking for the right solution for your fleet, contact us today.
