What is GPS Technology and How can it help Companies & Businesses?

GPS (Global Positioning System), a technology that allows you to track vehicle’s locations, is one of the most important inventions of modern times. It’s gaining popularity worldwide as more fleets use it to track their vehicles and get driving directions.

Despite its widespread use, many people do not know the exact workings of a GPS tracker or the various use cases it allows. Find out how GPS tracking works, and what are the main benefits.

What is GPS tracking?

A GPS tracker is a handheld device that allows users to monitor and track their location. These devices are most commonly used to track cars and vehicles.

While the tracking devices look very similar to cars’ in-car navigation systems (ICAN), there are several key differences. GPS navigation systems can show drivers their position on a map and then give driving instructions to get to the designated point. GPS trackers use GPS technology, which tracks a vehicle’s current location and trips history. The GPS data then gets broadcasted on a computer or smartphone.

How do GPS trackers function?

GPS trackers can connect to multiple satellites to determine their exact location. Trilateration is a process that determines location by using three or more satellites within the Global Navigation Satellite System’s (GNSS), as well as the distance between them.

It’s easy to learn how to use a GPS Tracker. The tracker’s power source is typically the OBD-II connector. It can also be powered from a cigarette lighter, an accessory socket, or an internal battery. The data it collects is sent to the software to allow the user to use the software to aggregate and analyze them.

GPS trackers can function with additional software

Some GPS trackers are capable of providing real-time locations of the user. This type is also available as a loop in managed services. Passive trackers usually cost less than active ones, as they simply store GPS data which can be viewed later.

How can GPS trackers be used?

Both vehicle owners and fleet managers use GPS tracking systems to locate their vehicles. The fleet manager can benefit from the usefulness of GPS tracking systems by providing valuable information such as:

Tracking business data

GPS fleet management can help fleet managers and business owners monitor vehicle movements and track mileage. This is useful in determining where employees and vehicles stand at any given moment using a wifi camera, as well as where they have traveled over the day.

Vehicle location reporting

If a vehicle is stolen with a GPS tracker, you can report it to the authorities. They can then recover it faster.

GPS tracker benefits for fleets

Fleets that make use of their GPS tracking tools effectively often experience a significant improvement in their overall business processes. Here are some examples.

Improved customer service:

Fleet managers can offer better customer service with real-time information about their fleet. They can give more precise arrival times or identify the nearest driver for service calls.

Optimized routing

Fleet managers can use GPS data for road and traffic conditions information to send their drivers on better routes.

Security for cargo has been increased

To help fleet managers with cargo theft issues spot unauthorized trips, GPS tracking systems can replay a route. Many fleet tracking software allows you to set up geofences that will alert you when a vehicle leaves a certain area.

Understanding driving behavior

Fleets can also connect to the engine control module (ECM), which can monitor certain driving patterns and alert managers to behaviors that can be improved. Fleets now have vehicle video as an option to complement their fleet management. Fleets can add a video to GPS tracking systems.

GPS data and video confirmation can be used to ensure delivery or service on time. It can be used to record video evidence for vehicle damage and missing equipment. The captured video of collisions is a great way for companies to protect drivers as well as their reputations.

GPS communication and fleet administration

GPS technology is an asset for fleet managers, who can use it to improve their businesses. GPS tracker is a great tool for tracking businesses. It allows fleet managers to:

l Alert your employees when they depart from a particular route or area (also known as geofencing).

l Safety standards for vehicle speed data must be adhered to

l It is important to know if a vehicle was used after working hours to protect company property

l Improve company profit and customer satisfaction by planning more efficient routes.