Drivers also benefit from TopGear Fleet Management
A concern we sometimes hear from fleet owners who are considering a telematics system, is that their drivers will be unhappy and perhaps even leave if such a system is implemented. With the shortage of heavy vehicle drivers across the industry this is a valid concern, however there is no evidence to suggest that there is any increased driver turnover when telematics systems are deployed on a fleet.
This is not to say that drivers don't have concerns. The introduction of any new technology or even procedural changes in a company can cause staff to be apprehensive, particularly if management does not clearly explain what is going on. If the process of introducing a fleet management system is handled correctly and explained clearly, drivers are more likely to be relaxed. Most drivers quickly appreciate that telematics is about making the company more efficient and that it's not going to threaten their livelihoods. In fact, the experience is that many drivers quickly recognise the benefits and conveniences it provides them.
Over the past 20 odd years virtually every business has been faced with introducing often successive waves of new technology. These all typically have implementation challenges but the overwhelming experience is that the results are good for both the business and its employees. The initial anxieties of employees about a particular technology disappear when they understand the benefits and how useful it actually is. The introduction of a telematics system is no different and there is already a growing acknowledgement that within a few years these applications will be common-place in fleets.
Apart from the benefits that flow to the transport company itself, there are advantages for drivers.
• Driver safety and security
Speed and fatigue are the main contributors to truck accidents and one cannot imagine any truck driver that would not support initiatives by its employer to improve safety. A comprehensive fleet management system like TopGearT improves driver safety through the monitoring of route plans and driving hours in accordance with legislated fatigue rules. A further benefit is that in the case of an emergency, accident, stolen vehicle or breakdown, fleet managers are able to easily locate the vehicle and get help to the driver.
• Load delivery verification and re-routing efficiencies
TopGearT records the daily activities of a vehicle, including all stop locations and the time at each stop, which means that drivers do not have to continually verify that deliveries are being completed as scheduled. Mapping capabilities also enable dispatchers to locate trucks and re-route drivers if necessary, to minimise costly delays or missed deliveries.
• Compliance with the law
Road transport laws are designed principally to improve safety. Unfortunately, speeding and driver fatigue remain a serious concern in the heavy vehicle industry. Apart from risking serious injury or death, the violation of road transport laws has serious penalties for drivers and their companies. Convicted drivers risk losing their licenses, and even worse could lose their livelihood. By deploying telematics, fleets introduce a systematic process to managing safety and improving driver compliance. Safer driving practice directly translates into fewer truck accidents, less injuries and ultimately, fewer fatalities.
• Reduced paperwork
Detailed vehicle activity reports generated by TopGearT mean that companies can go a long way to eliminating the nuisance to drivers of having to manually fill out additional time cards and delivery logs. The future introduction of Electronic Work Diaries will further reduce driver paperwork.
• Building a driving 'track record'
Drivers that operate vehicles fitted with TopGearT can build-up a track record of safe and efficient driving performance. This enhances their standing with the company and can also provide them with improved employment opportunities.
• Doing the right thing
Instances do occur where drivers are incorrectly accused of reckless driving, taking the wrong route or taking too long to complete a particular trip or task. In these circumstances TopGearT provides proof of what actually occurred on-route. Drivers that have done the right thing and performed their job functions as expected will have the back-up to explain their actions. A 'black box' accident replay analysis will also vindicate drivers that are involved in traffic incidents where it's not their fault.
• Driver incentives
TopGearT provides a system that companies can use to reward drivers for good performance. Any reward or bonus provided will be self-funding by the savings and productivity improvements. Both parties will benefit. This will help to keep morale and work standards high. It is also likely to result in a higher retention rate of good drivers.
• Reduces pay disputes
TopGearT provides an accurate system for recording driver hours and activities throughout a trip. The availability of this information not only makes the company's task of managing payroll easier, but it virtually eliminates pay disputes between drivers and the company. Again, both parties benefit from having better information.
TOMR is not suggesting a decision by a fleet owner to install telematics will be accepted by all drivers. Like introducing any new technology, it is essential to be open with employees and inform them about the purpose of the proposed system and how it will be used. The most common fear of drivers is that the company wants to closely monitor or better control what they do and how they do it. This in fact, is rarely the company's objective and by communicating openly you can go a long way towards neutralising these unnecessary fears and concerns.
The overriding goal for most fleet owners is to have a competitive and financially healthy business. From a driver's perspective, a company in this shape is more likely to be a better employer and it should also mean greater job security. Good drivers that make up the majority, have nothing to fear from a fleet management system.
For more information about Driver Benefits please contact Greg Turner at gturner@tomr.com.au