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Essential Features of Fleet Management Systems

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Mayika Fleet Management
Essential Features of Fleet Management Systems

Fleet management systems are electronic systems that manage vehicles in a fleet. They provide a comprehensive overview of a company's fleet and allow the manager to track and update assets, services and costs. A good fleet management system has several components: an information management system, fleet management software and an enterprise resource planning computer network. These systems integrate seamlessly to provide the full picture of a company's fleet. This article will provide a brief overview of how these systems work and what you need to look for when choosing one.

 

Information management systems gather the necessary data and relay it to the fleet management software. The software will then use this information to determine the most cost effective routes for vehicles to be placed in. It will also track and monitor vehicle maintenance, service schedules and driver performance. When a driver does not meet expected maintenance schedules or displays poor driver performance the software will generate an alert. This can either prompt the driver to take action or generate penalties for poor driving.

 

Tracking systems help companies gain control over their vehicles. This includes preventive maintenance as well as post-purchase management. Some fleet management systems combine these functions. For example a vehicle tracking system will capture vehicle mileage, post-purchase data and vehicle location. When the correct information is provided to the fleet manager, the driver will know if they are on the proper route or not.

 

Software and hardware can be purchased directly from fleet managers or fleet management systems manufacturers. Purchasing both requires careful shopping around for the best price and product features. Software can include many of the above functions, such as vehicle maintenance issues alerts and GPS vehicle tracking systems. Some vendors sell only the components of a package, and the remainder is available as add-on products. Make sure you choose the right vendor for your needs.

 

Fleet management software also includes vehicle telematics technology. Vehicle telematics helps fleet managers monitor and control the fleet's vehicles in real-time. This information includes fuel status and mileage, condition, speed and direction. This information is shared instantly with fleet managers who can view real-time fuel consumption trends and adjust routes or even stop and go practices to conserve fuel.

 

Real time mapping is another key function of fleet management software. Map creation includes mapping of route optimization, route planning and route routing. It is important that map creation is part of the package or monitored by an independent provider. Real time mapping is especially useful for emergency services, which may use these maps to locate possible routes during an emergency.

 

Fleet management software also includes a telematics device that aids fleet managers in administering vehicle maintenance. The device can include a card reader so fleet managers can read and monitor vehicle maintenance records electronically. Some telematics devices are capable of reading bar code labels which allow maintenance orders to be distributed to the appropriate crew. Other telematics devices are capable of transmitting data to a central control, allowing fleet managers to remotely control maintenance tasks. Some fleet management systems include additional features such as automatic calculation of maintenance reminders and scheduling.

 

Fleet management software also provides a means for fleet managers to schedule and manage all aspects of maintenance work. This includes scheduling regular servicing, preventive servicing and necessary repairs on fleet vehicles. The fleet manager can view all service history and complete reports for all fleet vehicles at any time. Fleet managers can set parameters for required repairs or servicing as well as determine when a vehicle is due for a service. With this tool, fleet managers can prevent potential risks to the fleet, increase efficiency and meet regulatory requirements.

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