What benefits can small fleets derive from fleet data systems, and how can they use them to their advantage? When you think of gathering and analyzing lots of data for fleets, usually larger fleets come to mind. But data is just as crucial for smaller fleets as it is for larger fleets. Small businesses may see even more benefit from fleet data analysis as they try to grow and expand in a competitive market.
Using Data for Fleet Safety
Naturally, the safety of drivers and others on the road is a top priority for any fleet business, especially small fleet companies trying to develop a safety culture and positive reputation in the community. One of the most common uses of fleet data is tracking driver safety and making decisions to ensure drivers are safe and efficient while completing their jobs. Fleet managers can track behaviors like hard braking, speeding, rapid acceleration, and swerving in real-time with telematics.
Just as important as receiving alerts in real-time, managers can view these behaviors over time. Of course, every driver makes mistakes, so it’s essential to consider each of these events in the context of a driver’s overall record, seeing how often they make these mistakes and repeat these dangerous behaviors.
This data helps fleet managers make a variety of decisions, including evaluating employee performance. For example, Azuga’s driver rewards program takes data from telematics and assigns drivers safety scores. Drivers with better safety scores can win prizes and are also eligible for potential career advancement opportunities with verifiable proof of their good driving.
Using Data for Maintenance
A fleet’s vehicles are integral to its operations, so it’s natural that managers would want to keep them running in their best shape. If a vehicle breaks down, it can significantly hinder a business’s productivity and affect workflow for days or even weeks while the vehicle is repaired. This is where telematics provides another benefit. Telematics can track when a vehicle has an issue that requires maintenance, and with programs like Azuga’s maintenance alerts, it can tell managers when it’s time to take that vehicle in. Furthermore, scheduled maintenance alerts help managers keep track of routine maintenance checkups so issues don’t arise in the first place.
It’s not only vital to maintain vehicles but to track their maintenance data. Systems like Azuga let managers view all of the work done on a vehicle over time, so they can detect any recurring issues. For example, if the same part keeps breaking down on a vehicle, it may be time to invest in replacing that part. If there are similar maintenance problems across all of a fleet’s vehicles, there may be a driving behavior problem that needs to be addressed. Vehicle maintenance gives managers a plethora of information about their vehicles and their drivers if they know how to use it.
Using Fleet Data for Daily Operations
Many small fleets use field service management software to manage their day-to-day operations. For example, Azuga Works allows managers to assign, dispatch, and edit jobs from one screen either on the computer or their mobile device. Azuga Works even provides data on everything going on with your fleet throughout the day, including the jobs they’re working on and where they are.
This data helps fleet managers make key decisions throughout the day. These include deciding how many employees are needed on hand, prioritizing which jobs they work on, deciding and rearranging their schedules, and even assigning specific technicians based on their skill sets. Field service management software even helps managers optimize routes so the fleet can complete more jobs faster while saving money on fuel.
Meanwhile, data on customers held within the extensive CRM tells managers which technicians customers prefer and gives details on their job histories so businesses can provide top-tier customer service.
Furthermore, Azuga Works also provides data on the financial aspects of doing business. Detailed business analytics reports help managers determine where to focus their efforts or even determine what efforts are working well for the business. This data is instrumental in maximizing profitability.
Start Gathering Fleet Data Today!
When it comes to gathering fleet data, there are many options on the market. However, Azuga is the best in terms of accuracy, ease of use, and customer support. If you have any doubts, try a demo to see for yourself what Azuga can do! You’re sure to be pleased, and your business is sure to start reaping the benefits very soon.
