When we contact companies to promote GPS tracking and fleet management software, they are usually already familiar with all the great potential of this technology and some of the advantages from which their companies can benefit. However, there is still a group of people that do not understand how this technology differs from GPS navigators or satnav.
So what are the main differences between the three?
Satnav: when we talk about satnav, we refer to devices that are located in the inside of a vehicle, generally mounted on the dashboard, where the driver can enter the destination address and instantly get the route. An automated voice will offer guidance by indicating in advance which way to turn in the approach to each relative junction until the final destination is reached.
GPS tracking: it is based on the same technology that allows for the detection of current location and the provision for route analysis in satnavs, allows a number of things for every vehicle in which a black box has been installed. For example, the movement and activity of the vehicles can be monitored 24/7 from multiple devices; and it is also possible to check routes in order to plan journeys.
Fleet management software: it is even more comprehensive and allows the tracking to extend even further, into fleet metrics such as fuel consumption, whilst also making it possible to set up safety alerts in order to monitor driver behaviour.
Now that we have hopefully clarified this, we would like to share an infographic with you regarding satnav, its characteristics and how it has started to be used. Thanks a lot to Southside Motor Factors for creating it!
Satnavs or GPS navigation devices are indeed very helpful and a great invention; but their use has somehow become excessive, as drivers tend to trust their satnav too much and defer from making decisions themselves: mistakes can be made as they mistype their destination into the satnav device, or it might not be properly updated, or drivers simply follow the instructions blindly without exercising common sense.
To some degree, hypnotically following the instructions of the satnav could also be a source of distracted driving.
Have a look at the infographic here:
Our advice, as providers of GPS tracking and of fleet management software, would be to plan the routes that your staff members need to travel in advance. The advantages of doing so means:
- You can establish which routes are more efficient by cross checking the usual fuel consumption as well as assessing the traffic stats;
- You can take the stress out of driving if you employ a good process for route planning; it will generate more realistic time frames and better conditions for driving;
- Satnav distraction will be eliminated, so your drivers and other road users will be safer.
Moreover, with a system such as SynX you can:
- Playback routes that have been already travelled to select the best one in terms of safety, traffic and fuel consumption
- Access a number of useful reporting tools that will only empower your business.
Get in touch in order to see how SynX can help!
