Things to Consider Before Giving Your Fleet DMS

Here’s what to look out for when upgrading your fleet with DMS

DMS (or Driver Monitoring System) is a valuable addition to any fleet manager’s toolkit. But before you just go and add DMS to your fleet, here are a few things you should consider in order to make the onboarding process a lot smoother. In this article, we will review the top three major considerations before migrating to a complex fleet management tool like DMS.

In addition to improving driver safety, fleet managers have begun to consider DMS as a way to save money on insurance, lost work hours due to accidents, and vehicle repairs.

Knowing where to start and how to go about finding the perfect DMS solution is one of the biggest obstacles to navigate, especially since this technology is still new to the industry. In this short guide, you will learn about the major challenges most fleet managers face, and gain insight into how to approach each one. The goal of this article is to provide valuable insight on how to find the ideal DMS, which can save you money and keep your team safe.

Top 4 Industry Challenges for Fleet Managers

From saving on insurance to dealing with compliance, there are often a number of solutions for handling each challenge like a pro. So, even if you do not find a specific solution here, we trust the information provided will help you on your hunt for the ultimate DMS solution for your team.

1. Pricing

Direct vs. indirect costs

Pricing is the number one concern for fleet managers, making it a major challenge when it comes to the actual value that is provided. Since the market is still learning about the benefits of DMS, there is no previous track record for managers to look back on as a general rule of thumb. Because of this, many companies are hesitant to onboard new technology.

Direct costs are one thing, but who knows what the indirect costs will come out to in the future.

Ultimately, the final decision must be made based upon what makes the most sense for your team. An easy way to avoid this dilemma is to check with the DMS provider about their fees. Some providers may charge a different fee; per installation, vehicle make, or by usage. You will also want to understand how all the data will be collected and managed, and any other services or maintenance costs that may arise. Only after thoroughly investigating those details should you then proceed forward with any insurance related challenges.

DMS can also be used to create a paperless trail of maintenance records and monitor driver performance.

2. Accidents

Dealing with backlash

Accidents happen, let’s face it. They’re costly and stressful, and they can often be prevented with the right driver monitoring solution.

When it comes to fleet insurance, DMS can play a big role in keeping rates down. That’s because insurers will often offer discounts to fleets that have a DMS in place. And, if an accident does happen, having a DMS can help prove that it wasn’t the fleet’s fault – which can save even more money.
But beyond insurance, DMS also helps prevent accidents from happening in the first place. By monitoring specific factors such as speeding, harsh braking and acceleration, and other risky driving behaviors, DMS helps fleets avoid costly accidents altogether.

DMS can help fleets avoid costly accidents in several ways:

• Help prevent accidents by using customized AI trigger alerts (seatbelts, drowsiness, etc.)
• Monitor speeding, harsh braking and acceleration, and other risky driving behaviors (mobile use, eating, etc.)
• Help prove that an accident wasn’t your fleet’s fault
• Get discounts on fleet insurance for using a DMS

By preventing accidents, DMS can save fleets a lot of money in the long run. So if you’re looking to save on insurance and accident costs, a DMS is a smart solution.

3. Compliance

Getting everyone onboard

How will your drivers react? Company culture is an important consideration when implementing DMS. Some drivers may feel that DMS is an invasion of privacy, while others may see it as a necessary part of their job. Some companies use DMS data solely for safety purposes, while others also use it for things like route optimization and driver coaching.

Aside from management, your drivers are the ones who will be using the DMS, so it’s important to get their input before implementation. Talk to your drivers about their concerns and explain how the DMS will be used to help keep them safer than before.

You should also make sure they understand that the DMS is not a “punishment”, but a tool to help improve overall performance. In particular, the system can store and track all of the required data, such as driver logs and Hours of Service (HOS) information, and more.

Compliance isn’t as difficult as you might think. Once everyone is properly trained, your DMS quickly becomes their go-to “safety net” that not only the drivers appreciate, but also the insurance companies. It is important to get feedback from drivers and other stakeholders before deciding whether or not to implement DMS.

4. Scalability

Agility at scale

Fleet managers face many challenges when scaling their DMS. One of the most important is making sure that the system can handle the increased load. Additionally, fleet managers need to be aware of any subscription fees that may apply when scaling their DMS. Adding more servers or storage space can be expensive, so it is important to budget accordingly.

This includes ensuring that the server is powerful enough to handle the added traffic, as well as having enough storage space to store all the data. Additionally, fleet managers need to make sure that the system is able to scale seamlessly, so that drivers do not experience any disruptions in service.

Having a reliable cellular and GPS signal in all areas of operation is crucial, too.

In general, scaling up a DMS can be challenging for fleet managers, but by planning and budgeting properly, you will be able navigate a smooth transition with minimal roadblocks.

Still searching for the perfect DMS?
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