Major Reasons Why GPS Fleet Tracking Systems Can Fail

Integrating GPS fleet tracking systems into a fleet management business can help to improve operations, but not every attempted integration is successful. 

When some startups or existing businesses decide to use GPS systems for the first time, or change their service providers, they might run into some problems that will force them to abandon the project. A strategic approach to implementing these systems can help the business run smoothly. Here are four main reasons why GPS fleet tracking systems can fail:

Poor Installation

Improper installation of the infrastructure is the most common reason for the system’s failure. Setting up the necessary hardware on the vehicles in places where they can get a clear view of the sky ensures they can send and receive unobstructed signals.

There are now plug-and-play devices that can be easily installed in a vehicle’s diagnostic port, easing the installation process. Fortunately, some startup GPS fleet tracking service providers have a network of installers that will take care of the entire process for a fee. They can also help you plan for vehicle downtime when the systems are being installed or maintained.

No Defined Endgame

Every business decision in a startup or existing business should have an endgame in mind while being taken to ensure sustainability, otherwise it may be difficult to measure how much positive impact it has on the business.

A lack of adequate planning before integrating the system into the business might create a situation where money is spent on a tracking system that the business can do without.

To avoid this pitfall, have a clearly defined goal before opting for this system and other business initiatives. Have periodic review sessions to assess how beneficial and cost-effective the system is. This helps managers determine how best to allocate their money and control spending.

Failure to Appoint a Project Manager 

If there is no one specifically appointed to oversee the installation and implementation of the GPS fleet tracking system, some important tasks and features can get overlooked. A project manager needs a checklist of all required actions to successfully complete the process.

It is worth noting that hiring a new external project manager might be unnecessary, and a worker could be temporarily assigned to this role for the duration of the project.

Inability to Get Employees Onboard

The managers of fleet management businesses that want to integrate this system should inform their employees ahead of time and explain the benefits and reasons for using it. This is because installing trackers without informing drivers can give them the impression that they are not trusted which can be upsetting.

Having an honest conversation with employees will make most of them see things from management’s point of view, and make them receptive to the installation of a new tracking system, or a change in service provider.

Lack of Top Management Commitment 

After the implementation of this system, business executives might delegate the operation to a lower level manager that does not fully understand its importance and possible benefits to the business. This will result in it not being used effectively, reducing ROI.

To prevent wasting resources, it would help if high-level managers request for periodic reports on the information supplied by these systems. The management team should also take time to explain the goal of implementing the tracking system and train them to use it correctly.

Inadequate Allocation of Resources

It is almost impossible to have a well-functioning and efficient fleet tracking system if not enough money is allocated to it. The fleet tracking equipment should be of high-quality to ensure that the signals sent and received by them are strong, and that they are durable.

The number of fleet managers employed should also be proportional to the amount of vehicles being managed. Having one person monitor too many vehicles is unsustainable, and some noteworthy information from the tracking system can go unnoticed.

Lack of Feedback for Employees

Without checking and analyzing the data provided by a fleet tracking system, it would be impossible to relay proper feedback to the drivers for them to improve their navigation skills. They would not be able to optimize the routes they follow, and might burn more fuel than necessary. The fleet manager would also not be able to measure the ROI to know if the usage of the tracking system is worth its cost.

Endnote

There are obvious benefits of using a fleet tracking system but sometimes, adopting this system might fail. All of the reasons outlined above are valid and should be addressed in time so the process of installing and implementing the system is as smooth as possible. The way the system is used daily will have a huge impact on how efficient it will be in the long-run.