Introducing a telematics system to your company fleet is a wise decision for any business owner who wishes to boost their business to the next level, providing important analytical data that fleet managers can constantly monitor and use to improve productivity. Information such as real-time vehicle location, driver hours, comprehensive driving behaviour reports and mapped routes taken, all provide valuable data points that can be used for ongoing efficiency improvements. Potential Concerns Although the benefits of telematics system are clear, it is quite common for employees to raise concern over the lack of privacy when a fleet management system is suggested – in fact, employee aversion is one of the primary reasons companies decide against implementing GPS tracking for their fleet. Many of the concerns however, are completely reasonable – what the employee does with their personal time is and should always be confidential to them; and encroachment of that can have a negative impact on staff relationships and workplace morale. This apprehension should not deter you from installing GPS tracking technology into your fleet. Instead, you should: Aspire to truly understand where your employee’s concerns are coming from Define the businesses’ objectives for application, Clearly communicate this to your team. Full Transparency It’s essential to be completely transparent with your staff members regarding why the company is implementing a fleet management system, to maintain a high level of confidence within the workplace. You should openly encourage conversations with drivers about their privacy concerns to help clear any confusion. A few reasons for application that you should take the time to discuss include: Risk management & the importance of protecting the fleet Protecting staff health and safety by, for example, having the ability to quickly respond to any roadside accidents/incidents, or by locating drivers during emergency situations Delivering a more effective service to customers Improved productivity Highlighting the benefits to the driver is also an honest means to get your staff on-board. It is also important to emphasise in your conversations that the GPS tracking system will not be used to infringe on the employee’s non-business activities. Rather, the fleet management software is about reducing risks and costs for the business. This will in turn, boost business efficiency and contribute to the success of the company. Highlighting the benefits to the driver is also an honest means to get your staff on-board, and includes improved road safety, improved time management, less time spent idling in traffic, and comprehensive reporting of work hours. Fleet management software is about reducing risks and costs for the business. To protect both the company and the employees, it is important to create a policy and procedures document that covers privacy issues and outlines how employees are to treat the software, and includes clear policies that govern company vehicle usage. This should always include a statement about the GPS tracking: what it’s intended for and how it will be used. Finally, see to it that you deliver on your promises regarding privacy. When you understand the importance of communication and transparency, a high-trust culture can be cultivated allowing your employees to feel empowered, satisfied, and engaged. Need Assistance? Fleetpin provides support and assistance throughout your telematics journey from early planning. We’ll help get your team onboard, provide support through the roll-out, and back you up with ongoing support. To get started, just give us a call on [0800 110 820](tel:0800 110 820) or chat to us right here.
