How Fleet Managers Can Navigate The Data Overload
In this blog we explore one of the challenges from our latest report: Fleet Challenges 2025: TheData Overload. Modern telematics systems have revolutionised fleet management, providing insights into everything from vehicle health to driver behaviour. But there’s a growing concern among fleet managers: too much data.
With so much information at their fingertips, many feel overwhelmed trying to determine which metrics matter most to their daily operations.
As one fleet manager candidly put it, “There’s too much data available, and a lot of it is irrelevant to day-to-day operations.” This sentiment isn’t unique. While telematics promises to make fleet management easier, too much data can have the opposite effect, leading to inefficiency and frustration.
The Challenge of Sifting Through the Noise
The real issue lies in separating valuable insights from unnecessary details. For example, while it’s helpful to monitor fuel consumption trends, not every fleet needs a constant feed of engine temperature readings.
Even with AI-driven tools designed to automate analysis, fleet managers emphasise the importance of human oversight. A manager overseeing a 200-vehicle fleet shared, “AI is helpful, but it shouldn’t replace human judgement.” His team focuses on metrics that drive efficiency and compliance, such as route optimisation and driver safety scores.
This highlights an important shift in the industry: the growing demand for customisable telematics solutions. Managers want systems that allow them to tailor data streams to their specific needs, helping them avoid distractions and stay focused on their goals.
The Path Forward: Simplifying Telematics
To truly benefit from telematics, fleet managers need tools that simplify—not complicate—their operations. Here are three key areas where telematics providers can make a difference:
1. Data Prioritisation with AI
AI should be used to sort and highlight the most critical metrics, ensuring fleet managers aren’t bogged down by irrelevant details. For example, an AI system might flag vehicles at risk of failing MOT inspections or highlight drivers with a pattern of unsafe behaviour.
2. User-Friendly Interfaces
Complicated dashboards can deter even the most tech-savvy users. Simplified interfaces with customisable reporting tools make it easier for managers to quickly access and act on key insights, reducing manual effort and stress.
3. Comprehensive Staff Training
A powerful telematics system is only as good as the people using it. Staff training ensures teams understand how to interpret and act on the data, maximising the system’s value.
What Fleet Managers Really Need
Fleet management professionals are clear about their priorities: efficiency, compliance, and safety. They don’t need every feature under the sun—they need the right features.
Customisable solutions, backed by strong human oversight and straightforward usability, are the way forward. By focusing on what matters most, fleet managers can make better decisions, improve operations, and avoid the pitfalls of data overload.
The bottom line? Telematics systems should be a tool for simplification, not complication. It’s time to let fleet managers take back control and focus on what really matters to their business.
For more insights on how telematics can help you streamline fleet management without unnecessary complexity, download our latest report here.
