Vehicle tracking started with the use of physical paper maps. Many may still remember the days of unfolding a large map spread across the steering wheel or the passenger seat. Even though these maps were detailed and helpful but had many shortcomings when it came to vehicle tracking. But, it is when GPS came and brought operational efficiency to many businesses. In this article, we aim to explain the journey of the vehicle tracking system, its evolution, and how it collaborated with GPS to help fleet operations.
Drawbacks of The Paper Maps Era
If we talk about vehicle tracking or any tracking in general- there are many drawbacks. For instance, in the logistics industry, truck drivers would plan their routes with these paper maps, jot down travel journals, and communicate their location via public telephones or CB radios to their managers or dispatchers. However, there was no denying that these methods were time-consuming, more error-prone, and also failed to provide real-time tracking.
However, with advancements in technology, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software came into existence. These systems were able to digitally map routes and provided a more accurate outlook than paper maps. However, drivers still needed to rely on phone calls to update their location or report any deviation. But, this issue, as well, gets resolved once GPS tracking systems are launched in the market.
Introduction to GPS Vehicle Tracking Software
While maps served their purpose in the past, GPS, with its ease of use, real-time updates, and accuracy, has emerged as the most used navigation tool for the modern world. In recent times, GPS technology has been the major reason that drastically changed the face of the vehicle tracking industry. It uses a network of 24 satellites that continually transmit signals, allowing devices on the ground to determine their exact location. Coupled with software, it gives fleet managers real-time visibility of their vehicles, right from their offices.
Key Features of GPS Vehicle Tracking Software
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Providing Real-Time Tracking
Current vehicle tracking systems allow fleet managers to view the exact location of their vehicles anytime, anywhere. They also provide information about the vehicle’s speed, direction, and time spent idling.
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Featured with Route Optimization
This feature provides the most efficient route to a destination, considering factors like traffic, road conditions, and the shortest distance. This helps to cut down on fuel costs and also provides faster delivery services.
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Enabling Geo-Fencing
Geo-fencing enables managers to set up virtual boundaries for their vehicles. When a vehicle enters or exits these boundaries, an alert is triggered, thereby preventing unauthorized usage or theft.
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Providing Detailed Report & Analysis
The software keeps a detailed log of each journey, including time, speed, distance covered, and more. These reports help in analyzing performance, improving efficiency, and maintaining compliance of the drivers.
What is a Vehicle Tracking System?
Vehicle tracking system works on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) or GPS technology to provide real-time information about any vehicle’s location. Vehicles can be easily traced back along with all the relevant information being displayed with the use of the same tracking software. Users can see or restore all the data even in mobile application software. It is available for both personal and business uses, helping transportation logistics, ensuring driver safety, and even helping to recover stolen vehicles. Let’s learn more about how this software can help different industries in brief.
- Fleet Management Software: Ideal for businesses looking to manage a fleet of vehicles. This system can easily track vehicles, manage routes, plan logistics, and generate detailed reports about each vehicle’s performance. For example, UPS, a leading logistics provider, employs fleet management software to optimize delivery routes and save millions each year.
- Personal Vehicle Tracking Software: If you’re fearing for the safety of a new teenage driver, or simply do not want your car stolen, personal vehicle tracking software is the correct answer. It also comes with geo-fencing features, which alert you when a vehicle enters or leaves a designated area.
- Telematics Software: This solution not only tracks vehicles but also monitors the health of the vehicle itself. The software provides all the data which includes fuel usage, engine health, and other parameters set by the fleet managers.
Companies Using Vehicle Tracking Systems to Double Their Profits
Today, real-time information is used to monitor vehicle parameters like fuel efficiency, driver behavior, and live traffic updates. Vehicle tracking system software, such as TrackoBit, is put into place for managing private and commercial fleets.
For instance, delivery companies use advanced GPS tracking to provide accurate or close to exact delivery timings to their customers and better fleet management.
Similarly, ride-sharing services also depend on GPS technology for everything from connecting drivers and passengers to billing and rating trips.
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Before You Go!
In commercial fleet businesses, the importance of real-time tracking cannot be overlooked. But, with TrackoBit’s vehicle tracking system, managers can now track their fleet instantly, ensuring quick response time in case of emergencies.
Well, planning to get your hands on a vehicle tracking system- TrackoBit can be a worthy bet. This fleet management company provides 360° of insights into your fleet. Get real-time tracking with enhanced security and optimal efficiency.
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