TELEMATICS
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To ensure drivers and vans are deployed effectively, telematos is a necessity.
Banister says, "Many fleet managers don't understand telematics as a whole and what it can achieve. They might use a degree of fleet monitoring technology, but there is a vast area that can be ignored, which may help with fleet efficiency."
Vehicle manufacturers are partly to blame. says Howard. as they focus on technology that's been proven in the car sector.
"So much gets dragged through from the other side, as its assumed that the same will work on vans, but it doesn't."
Howard continues: 'Secondary companies are working on it, asking us the question 'what is it you need to solve?' However, if the vehicle manufacturers get involved directly it will bring the cost down.
"You can't just set up a telematics system and expect it to deliver results. You have to focus on what it is you're trying to achieve."
To learn more about fleet management improvements, Balderson seeks out other van fleet managers. "I find it's extremely beneficial to talk to other peer groups to get information. There is a lot to be said for exchanging experiences with other people in the industry; it's good to tap into their knowledge. Also, getting together with vehicle manufacturers to find a solution to certain problems is worthwhile."
Banister concludes: "The van market is quite a cottage industry, and everyone is facing the same problems."