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Evolution of Fleet Management Systems

A few decades back, no one could have imagined a mechanism that can offer real-time monitoring of vehicles. It seemed to be a farfetched idea until GPS trackers came along. The GPS tracking revolutionized the operations of various fleet businesses including logistics, supply chain and delivery etc. and their productivity skyrocketed.
When the conventional mechanism proved to be insufficient for the growing demands of the market, an innovative mechanism was introduced called Fleet Management System. This technology provided a GPS tracking software where all operations of fleet-related businesses can be managed and monitored.
The businesses welcomed this innovative system with open arms as it offered them both convenience and efficiency. With time, new advancements are made to the technology to meet the changing market requirements, and this blog will cater to them.

The History of Fleet Management

Concept of fleet management has been around for over fifty years now. The businesses used to employ conventional technologies like relying on fleet managers to perform all the tasks back in the day. Let us have a detailed look at the embryonic stages of the fleet telematics technology.

Inception

The idea of managing fleets was conceived by the U.S. automobile industry before the invention of GPS back in 1974. It employed the basic functionalities of fleet telematics like order processing, status reporting, and automated communication etc. The mega automobile manufacturers like Ford, General Motors and Chrysler made use of the electronically processed management mechanism for their fleets. At that time, mainframe computers were used to manage fleet operations.
In the latter half of the 1970s, the concept of telematics was introduced to the world. Alain Minc and Simon Nora of France defined it using telecommunications to transfer information. After this groundbreaking discovery, more research was conducted to ensure that this technology is made eco-friendly and viable for businesses.

Introduction of GPS

In 1978, an experimental satellite Block-I GPS manufactured by Rockwell International was sent into space. Following the footsteps of this launch, another ten Block-I satellites were sent into space in 1985 to enhance the validity of GPS technology. As the number of satellites orbiting the earth increased, the probability of GPS tracking becoming functional also rose. Finally, on Jan 17 1994, a total of 24 satellites were launched in space, making the GPS technology fully operational.

Post Fully Functional GPS Technology

The invention of GPS Technology brought a revolution in the scope of fleet telematics with infinite possibilities ahead. It not only changed the method of leading organizations to manage their fleet but also provided researchers with a defining stepping stone to produce clutter-breaking ideas.

Addition of New Features

Once GPS technology became functional, many other features were also included in the telematics systems to enhance their efficiency. For example, staff performance management and weather forecast systems were integrated with the fleet telematics technology in a few years after GPS was made functional.
One of the most significant benefits of GPS technology was accuracy which became better with time. With the use of GPS, businesses can strictly monitor every vehicle in their fleet. It results in more efficiency and productivity.

Automation

.Post GPS vehicle tracking, the main emphasis of research has been on making the mechanism more seamless. The integration of different apps and systems with a centralized telematics system allowed businesses to get better automation during daily operations. Various features like fleet maintenance, notification alerts and reporting were introduced to broaden the scope of the telematics system and make it potentially viable for businesses.

Geofencing

Geo-fencing is a revolutionary technique introduced using GPS technology as its basis. It has served the purpose of businesses around the world in many ways by strengthening security, preventing route deviation, enhancing productivity etc. With geofencing, companies can strictly monitor the activity of every vehicle in their fleet and take quick measures in case of an emergency.

Future Potential

Fleet telematics is a booming industry with the constant induction of new functionalities in the technology. Limitless possibilities are lying ahead for the researchers and innovators related to this field.

Induction of AR (Augmented Reality) Technology

When AR first appeared to the scene, everyone was amazed by it. It provided a more optimized and refined appearance of reality to the viewers. Keeping its visual benefits in mind, the fleet telematics industry is looking to use it to improve the safety of the drivers. The modern research shows prospects of AR’s assistance in identifying the presence of obstacles in the path while driving.
The idea of using the windshield as a screen to detect hurdles is in the pipeline. Moreover, AR’s integration with a telematics system is also probable. The goal is to assist the drivers in the best possible way by using AR technology.

Self-Driving Vehicles

The concept of self-drive is not new anymore as it is under process for quite some time now. Many giant car producers have worked on this technology and provided some features that fall under this category. However, the goal of achieving a fully autonomous vehicle is on the cards and soon to be achieved.
Once autonomous vehicles are designed, the telematics systems will be reshaped. Self-driving vehicles will open up many possibilities for AI(Artificial intelligence) that can add to the efficiency and interactivity of telematics systems.
Keeping the start of fleet management in view, it is evident that this technology has come a long way. Despite all the advancements, still, there is a lot of room for improvement and innovation. The research and development process of the telematics seems to be on the right track to becoming more efficient and convenient.

How Mobile Apps Help in Fleet Management?

Fleet management is a crucial task for any business dealing with transportation. It involves managing and coordinating a large number of vehicles. This can be a challenge as it requires a high level of organization and coordination to ensure that each vehicle is operating at peak performance. Moreover, the managers have to ensure that the fleet is in compliance with the regulations. Fortunately, mobile apps can help streamline the fleet management process and make it easier to track and manage vehicles in real-time.

One of the most significant benefits of mobile apps for fleet management is the ability to track vehicles in real-time. With GPS technology, mobile apps can provide live updates on the location of each vehicle. It allows fleet managers to quickly locate vehicles, monitor driver behavior, and ensure that vehicles are being used efficiently. Whether the manager is at his/her desk or somewhere else, they can get the real-time updates on the whereabouts of all the vehicles.

Vehicle Maintenance

Mobile apps help with vehicle maintenance in a lot of ways. By tracking mileage, fuel consumption, and other important metrics, fleet managers can schedule regular maintenance to keep vehicles running smoothly and avoid breakdowns. Mobile apps can also send alerts when vehicles need maintenance or repairs, allowing fleet managers to quickly address issues and keep vehicles in optimal condition.

Driver Management

Mobile apps can also help with driver management. Fleet managers can use mobile apps to track driver behavior, such as speeding or harsh braking, enabling them intervene at the right time to prevent any unfortunate incident. Such a strict monitoring helps improve driving habits in the long run. Mobile apps can also help ensure that drivers are adhering to regulations, such as hours of service requirements. They provide real-time updates on traffic conditions to help drivers make better decisions on the road.

Route Optimization

Mobile apps offer route optimization feature which is integral for running efficient fleet operations. By analyzing traffic patterns, road closures, and other factors, mobile apps can suggest the most efficient routes for drivers to take. It helps reduce travel time and fuel consumption which results in more profitability for the business. In addition to saving time and money, it also reduces the carbon footprint of the fleet.

Paperless Documentation

Mobile apps can prove to be a convenient and efficient alternative of paper documentation. By using digital forms and electronic signatures, fleet managers can eliminate the need for paper-based processes and reduce the risk of errors and delays. Mobile apps can also store important documents, such as driver licenses and insurance certificates, and provide quick access to this information when needed. Moreover reports can also be generated and saved through mobile apps.

In conclusion, mobile apps are an essential part of modern fleet management systems as they offer a range of benefits including the ones mentioned above. By leveraging the power of mobile technology, fleet managers can streamline their operations, reduce costs, and improve safety and efficiency.