GPS devices critical for improving efficiency in business

Vehicles rank among many companies’ major capital expenditures, along with facilities, goods and inventory and equipment. Often the person or entity that owns them rarely sees them because they are out in the field. Management is very labor-intensive, because often there are multiple vehicles, and their drivers to keep on schedule.

GPS tracking devices have proven that they are an enormous benefit in mobile asset management. The systems have helped thousands of companies save money, and boost staff and customer satisfaction.

About 10 years ago, when GPS tracking devices started emerging in the market, one of the first segments of business to install mobile asset management systems was large companies. Early technologies were cost-prohibitive to the small to medium businessman. Even in a Fortune 500 company, it was critical that upper management be convinced they’d get a solid return on investment (ROI) for the mobile asset management system.

But as the systems have become more compact, more accurate and more affordable, companies big and small are realizing the value of mobile asset management. It gives businesses, from corporations to Mom-and-Pop shops, to independent, self-employed sales and service people, a tool to become more competitive and profitable.

Passive and Active Devices

Vehicle tracking devices take the guesswork out of locating mobile assets. Managers no longer need to rely on drivers to check in from the road. With GPS tracking systems, a vehicle’s position, from moment to moment, is accurately recorded. Speed, direction, miles driven and the address of stops can also be displayed.  A receiver in the vehicle captures signals from satellites in space.

GPS vehicle tracking systems are either passive or real-time. Passive devices record location data, which is downloaded to a computer for viewing once the vehicle returns from its trip. Real-time units integrate GPS technology with a wireless network. The tracking data is transmitted to remote computer or Internet-enabled cell phone and the user can see where the vehicle is as it moves along its route.

Both have a host of applications for mobile asset management, all pointing to a business trend toward working “lean.” And new, innovative uses are being discovered all the time. (more…)