(Photo : Mike B)

Business management and fleet management are two very different roles that are heavily integrated with each other. Keeping tabs on both was a real challenge back in the day as technology wasn't refined and software was very scarce. These days, however, both business owners and fleet managers have an incredible advantage. Fleet technology and software has evolved to the point you can check the status of every vehicle at once from your house. If you're preparing to invest into a fleet, and are interested in ways to invest your money that support smooth operations, here are some of the top technologies and software you need to ensure everything runs smoothly.

GPS Tracking Systems

Being able to see the whereabouts of each vehicle from the comfort of your own home is made possible through the use of GPS tracking systems. Though they do require someone to manually check every so often, everything else is automated. This is made possible because all GPS trackers utilize satellites. These satellites are constantly broadcasting signals, which is how you're able to locate your drivers.

Electronic Logging Devices

Before a fleet can even be rendered fit to operate, you must supply each vehicle with an electronic logging device (ELD). These are installed into the onboard diagnostics (OBD) of a vehicle, which is what keeps record of all the important data. Below is a list of all the information an ELD keeps track of:

• Date

• Time

• When the vehicle was first turned on

• How many miles it has driven

• Driver's identification information

• Type of vehicle that's being operated

• What kind of turn the vehicle took at a certain interval

Another important component you need to keep track of is the engine hours. Engine hours helps you manage how much wear and tear each vehicle has. This makes it easier for fleet managers to schedule the proper vehicle maintenance, which can mitigate costs in the long run.

Dash Cams

Second-hand information is important, but it's only one part of the process. You never know what can happen on the road as accidents can occur at any given moment. Even with all the proper technology and safe driving habits, the road isn't a safe place. If one of your commercial vehicles is involved in an accident, not only is your company at risk, the driver can be seriously hurt. This is why you should always consider investing into dash cams. Dash cams are cameras that are mounted on to the dashboard of a vehicle and records the entire trip. Fleet managers get a first-person view of everything that happens and this includes who caused a potential accident.

Fuel Management Systems

Fuel management systems give you more insight into how much fuel is being used, so you can come up with solutions to prevent it from being wasted. They're also used to allow drivers access to their vehicles. Many drivers, specifically newer ones, do take routes that deviate from the intended destination. This can lead to an immense overconsumption of gas, which increases how much you have to spend each month.