Modern businesses rely on navigation and location-based technologies every day. Fleet tracking, asset monitoring, mapping software, and more are key to efficiency. With so many options now, selecting the right GPS systems for your firm can be confusing.
Define How You Will Use GPS
GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” This system uses a global network of satellites to pinpoint locations and precisely track their movement in real time. Companies have many different methods and options available to them for the application of GPS tracking technology for their various needs and purposes. Be clear first on your usage goals. Tracking needs for a delivery fleet will differ greatly than monitoring static assets, for example.
Common business uses of GPS include:
- Fleet routing and dispatch
- Asset tracking and recovery
- Yard management
- Workforce tracking
- Location-based mobile apps
Before proceeding, make certain you have a thorough understanding of which options apply to your daily operational processes and workflows. This shapes all other choices.
Key Features to Look For
With your goals defined, make a wish list of must-have features. These may include:
- Real-time location visibility
- Geofencing and alerts
- Future route optimization
- Tracking history reports
- Custom map layers
- Accurate odometer logging
- Landmark tagging abilities
- Temperature monitoring
- Native mobile apps
- Flexible tracking intervals
Carefully compare both the devices and the software you are considering against each item present on this comprehensive list to ensure compatibility and functionality. The best tools will match closely.
Cost Considerations
GPS technology spans consumer to enterprise-level options. Prices follow accordingly. Startup costs like hardware and software purchases may apply. Then ongoing fees like cellular data plans, licensing subscriptions, or per-user charges add on. Define budgets for both short and longer term.
In general, expect costs to align with complexity. Advanced fleet management platforms will exceed basic asset tags. Focus spending where it counts most for your operations.
Implementation Factors
You need to think about how readily can staff access and use the systems. Modern tools aim for quick rollout and ease of use. Still, training, settings configuration, and rollout logistics take time. Gauge realistically if your teams can handle the workload or outside help would assist. The fastest payback comes from tools staff adopt quickly.
Ongoing Support Needs
All technology has learning curves plus potential tech issues. Consider upfront what support you may want from vendors. This includes setup assistance, training, troubleshooting, and periodic optimization. According to the people at Idrive, external GPS resellers often shine here by providing high-touch guidance before and after sales.
Key Evaluation Steps
Follow these steps when selecting navigation tools:
- Document usage goals and requirements.
- Research GPS devices and software options.
- Compare solutions against needs and budgets.
- Ask vendors detailed questions.
- Request demos and free trials.
- Seek guidance from unbiased GPS resellers.
- Calculate total cost of ownership.
- Create implementation and testing plans.
- Choose flexible platforms allowing for growth.
The GPS Landscape Keeps Evolving
What seems advanced today may be entry-level in the coming years. GPS accuracy and capabilities will keep improving. Position your firm to:
- Seek scalable software suites allowing easy add-on tools.
- Consider hardware-agnostic mobile apps working across devices.
- Demand regular vendor updates and feature expansion.
- Use reseller partners to monitor the market horizon.
Conclusion
Applying GPS to business reaches far past simple driving directions. Location-enabled efficiency tools now define modern operations. Defining needs, comparing options at needed quality levels, and allowing room for growth creates solid GPS solutions. Tap independent resellers to simplify decisions and get the best fit. With smart planning, companies can implement the right navigation technologies to maximize productivity and compete at higher levels.
