Have you ever listened to people in an industry other than your own and thought they are speaking a completely different language? All industries have their own acronyms and special words, but telecom seems to have the most. Have you heard any of these terms and wondered what they mean? VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), IoT (Internet of Things), UCaaS, DRaaS, Geofencing, and the list goes on. Let’s focus on one at a time, starting with Geofencing, and we can cover the other topics in another blog.
The definition of Geofencing is “The practice of using global positioning (GPS) or radio frequency identification (RFID) to define a geographic boundary. Then, once this “virtual barrier” is established, the administrator can set up triggers that send a text message, email alert, or app notification when a mobile device enters (or exits) the specified area”.
Ok now you have the definition, but are probably asking why would this help my business and how can I use it?
Benefits of the Geo-Fencing Feature
- Prevent drivers from using the business vehicle for personal use
Are you concerned that some drivers use the company’s vehicle for personal use or maybe you’ve never considered this and its impact on your business? With geo-fencing, fleet managers can check if their trucks are idle for long periods or if they are being used excessively.
Also, worth noting, if someone would attempt to turn off the geo-fencing feature, the fleet manager would get a notification alert and the app will be relaunched.
- Ensure safety
Knowing the whereabouts of your fleet always means that dispatchers can check if drivers are adhering to safety standards. This can also help fleet managers contact drivers and send help immediately in case of an emergency.
- Keep track of resources and reduce theft
Geo-fencing is helpful in asset monitoring and inventory. Whenever a truck leaves or arrives at a job site, the fleet manager receives an alert message. This allows the manager to determine if the use of the truck is authorized or not. If it’s not, then it’s possible the vehicle is being stolen. The alert will give the company the chance to recover if not prevent vehicle theft.Another benefit of the geo-fencing alert feature is you will no longer need to utilize time sheets in keeping tabs on your remote worker’s attendance. With this, you can easily oversee where your trucks and employees are during work hours.
- Save on expenses
Companies can count on the geo-fencing feature when it comes to creating shorter routes while avoiding bumper-to-bumper traffic. As a result, the company may reduce fuel and maintenance costs.How geo-fencing works may be useful in cutting insurance costs as well. Because geo-fencing is known to prevent costs for damaged equipment or lawsuits from vehicular accidents, insurance companies may decrease premiums.
You can also track vehicle maintenance records.
- Report updates
Geo-fencing technology allows fleet managers to update their reports complete with time stamps and validations. These reports can be compiled to be used as a basis for end-of-the-day evaluations for the driver and to think of more effective methods of delivering goods to clients.GPS tracking system has been helping companies operate a hassle-free business, and its geo-fencing feature is just one of the many reasons you should start using this tool.
For roughly $1/day/device, Geofencing can provide your company with the info you really need. Who used what asset, when was it used, where did it go, and what did it cost me to deliver my goods or services.
Now that you know more about Geofencing and how it may benefit your business, you may also want to know if this is something you can use personally with family members. The simple answer is yes but how it’s done and the costs vary by carrier.
As always, please call me with any questions.
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