Today businesses run on data. If you own cars, vans, trucks or buses, then your vehicles are one of the most powerful sources of data you have. Every day they create information on things like location, fuel, mileage and driver behaviour. Used effectively, this can help you lower costs, improve working processes and grow your customer base. Solutions using fleet telematics are designed to give you control over this data so you can use it to benefit your business.
As with all things, however, fleet telematics comes with its own terminology. This can make things a little confusing when you start comparing solutions to figure out which one will best suit your company. This guide will help to clear up the meaning of the key terms you’ll come across.
TELEMATICS
The combination of hardware and software that connects an object (such as a car) to the internet and allows it to be monitored remotely. This makes it possible to record the data related to it, such as route travelled, speed, acceleration, etc.
FLEET MANAGEMENT
‘Fleet’ refers to the cars, vans or trucks owned by your business and used by your drivers. Therefore, fleet management refers to overseeing the operation and maintenance of these vehicles, ensuring they are used correctly, kept on the right routes and serviced properly. It also keeps the related costs under control and ensures any related legal requirements are met.
GPS RECEIVER
The device that is mounted in a vehicle and calculates its exact position using the Global Positioning System (GPS) or another satellite network. When connected to the internet, the GPS receiver can forward the vehicle coordinates to a central system. This then allows the vehicles position to be displayed and monitored on a map.
IN-VEHICLE TRACKING DEVICE
The system that allows all relevant data related to the vehicle and driver to be recorded. For example, vehicle position, driving speed and engine ignition can all be measured, captured and centrally stored through this system.
DRIVER TERMINAL
The in-vehicle device that supports communication between your driver and your office. It displays information on things like the fastest route or the upcoming schedule, and can also give driving advice and instructions. It is placed in a holder on the dashboard.
NAVIGATION
The system fitted to the vehicle that shows the driver the quickest route to the destination. The GPS receiver ensures the navigation system knows the position of the driver, so it can calculate and suggest the best route possible. Some navigation systems are capable of tracking real-time traffic information. In this case, they can offer advice on alternative routes to avoid road blocks, congestion and delays.
TRACKING AND TRACING
The activity of following a vehicle. Tracing refers to the reproduction of the route the vehicle has followed. Tracking refers to the location of the vehicle itself, i.e. where is it right now?
Ready to find out what a fleet management solution can do for your business? Then try it for free today.