Don’t use telematics to track your technicians every move. Yes, it can be used for that, but if you need a global positioning satellite to manage your workforce, you have bigger problems.
Too many companies invest in telematics only to have it running in the background and not integrated in their management system to truly improve the business. If you’re going to make the investment, then use the system to its full capability.
For example:
Geofence Known Locations – The system will know if the vehicle is at a customer site, the office, etc. so that you can better understand the root causes of unproductive time.
Integrate with Other Systems - With geofenced addresses and integration, your telematics system should tell your field service management system when the tech arrives on site. This reduces the reliance on the technician for self-reporting and automates an important element in the service process.
Manage Fuel Efficiency - Telematics systems give great insight into routing, which is a key driver of fuel consumption. It also exposes driver behaviour like idling which is completely avoidable.
Manage Safety - Sending your employees out onto the road is dangerous. They are in control of thousands of pounds of machinery with your brand plastered all over it. There is no room for error. Set clear safety policies and targets and integrate them in the telematics system alerts so that you can correct bad behaviour before it is too late.
These are just a few of the core capabilities of today’s telematics solutions, but as you implement them be aware of these potential pitfalls:
Deliver analysis, not reports - Telematics systems can spit out reams of data, but if you don’t integrate the key measures into your management system, they will soon be irrelevant. Put a couple of the key measures on your dashboard and use the data to drive continuous improvement.
Select a great partner - Choose a partner that will help you to install the solution, but also to really get it up and running to the point where you’re seeing benefits.
It’s not a video game - With its pretty maps and moving trucks, service managers are drawn to telematics systems like a 15-year-old to Fortnight. Don’t let your team fall into this trap.
It’s no substitute for active management.
Have you had success installing a telematics solution? How have you and your team avoided these pitfalls? Share your experiences in the comments below.
Learn more about field service transformation with Chapman Management Solutions and download the free 30 Tips eBook at www.chrischapman.ca.
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