In today’s fleet management landscape, telematics devices such as GPS trackers and dashcams have become integral for improving efficiency, safety, and accountability. However, ensuring that these devices are installed properly and effectively is crucial. This requires hiring or contracting skilled technicians who can handle the installation and maintenance of such systems. In this post we discus what to consider when selecting telematics technicians as there are several factors to take into account.
Selecting Telematics Technicians
Here’s a detailed guide on what to look for when hiring or contracting a technician for telematics device installations in your fleet.
1. Technical Expertise and Experience
One of the most important qualities to look for in a technician is their technical expertise. The installation of telematics devices like GPS trackers and dashcams requires knowledge of vehicle electrical systems, understanding of the devices themselves, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
Experience with Telematics Devices: Look for a technician with specific experience installing telematics devices. This includes GPS systems, dashcams, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and other telematics solutions.
Knowledge of Vehicle Systems: The technician should have a strong understanding of various vehicle types and their electrical wiring systems. They should be able to integrate telematics devices without interfering with the vehicle's existing systems or voiding warranties.
Certifications: While not always required, certifications such as those offered by vehicle manufacturers, telematics providers, or other relevant bodies can give you confidence in the technician’s ability to perform high-quality installations.
2. Understanding of Fleet Management Needs
The technician should be aware of the unique challenges and needs of fleet management. This means understanding the specific requirements of different vehicles within your fleet, such as trucks, vans, and cars, and how telematics solutions can optimize the fleet’s operations.
Fleet Size Consideration: Whether you manage a small or large fleet, ensure the technician can handle the scale of your needs. Larger fleets may require technicians who can complete installations efficiently across multiple vehicles, while smaller fleets might benefit from a more personalized approach.
Customization Needs: Different fleets might need different types of telematics devices or configurations. A good technician will be able to assess your specific requirements (e.g., dashcams with AI-powered safety features, temperature tracking for refrigerated vehicles) and customize the installation to suit your operational goals.
3. Reliability and Availability
A technician’s reliability and availability are critical. You want someone who can deliver high-quality service on time, with minimal disruption to your fleet’s daily operations.
Timeliness: Ensure the technician has a track record of completing installations on schedule. Delays can result in downtime, which can affect fleet productivity and the overall ROI on your telematics investments.
Emergency Support: Look for technicians who offer ongoing support and troubleshooting services. Telemetry devices may need maintenance or adjustments after installation, and you want a technician who is available to provide assistance quickly.
Flexible Scheduling: It’s ideal if the technician can accommodate your business’s operational hours. For example, if you need installations done outside of normal working hours or over the weekend to minimize vehicle downtime, ensure the technician can be flexible.
4. Quality of Work and Attention to Detail
The quality of the installation is crucial for ensuring the telematics devices perform optimally. Poor installation can lead to issues such as inaccurate GPS tracking, malfunctioning dashcams, or devices that draw too much power from the vehicle’s battery.
Neatness and Organization: The technician should ensure that the installation is neat, with minimal disruption to the vehicle’s wiring and internal systems. Wires should be neatly routed, and devices should be securely mounted to avoid damage.
Calibration and Testing: A reputable technician will test each device after installation to ensure it works correctly. This includes verifying GPS signal accuracy, camera alignment for dashcams, and checking that data is being transmitted properly.
Follow-up: After the installation, a good technician should offer follow-up services to ensure that the devices are functioning as expected. This includes checking for any errors in data reporting or vehicle connectivity.
5. Communication and Customer Service Skills
Effective communication is key when working with a technician, especially if there are any issues or questions before, during, or after the installation process. The technician should be approachable, professional, and willing to communicate clearly throughout the project.
Clear Explanation of Processes: The technician should be able to explain the installation process and any potential challenges in simple terms. They should also provide updates during the installation and let you know if any issues arise.
Transparency: It’s important that the technician is upfront about costs, timelines, and any potential limitations of the devices or installation process. Avoid technicians who might offer overly complex or unrealistic promises.
Training and Support: A good technician will also offer training for your fleet managers or drivers on how to use the telematics systems. This could include how to access GPS tracking data, interpret dashcam footage, or make adjustments in the system settings.
6. Cost and Value
Cost is always a factor when considering hiring a technician, but it should not be the sole deciding factor. While a lower-cost technician might seem appealing, it could come with the risk of subpar installation or unreliable service.
Competitive Pricing: Obtain quotes from multiple technicians or service providers to get an idea of the going rate. Ensure that the technician’s pricing is in line with the industry average, while also reflecting the level of expertise and service quality provided.
Value for Money: Consider the value the technician brings to the table. A higher-cost technician might deliver faster, more reliable installations with less need for follow-up repairs. Think long-term about how a good installation can save money by reducing device downtime and improving fleet operations.
7. Reputation and References
Before hiring or contracting a technician, take the time to research their reputation. Look for reviews, ratings, and references from other businesses that have used their services.
Online Reviews and Testimonials: Search for feedback on platforms like Google Reviews or industry-specific forums. Positive reviews from other fleet managers or logistics professionals can be a good indicator of the technician’s reliability and skill.
References from Previous Clients: Ask the technician for references from companies they have worked with before. Reach out to these companies to inquire about the technician’s work quality, professionalism, and ability to meet deadlines.
8. Compliance with Regulations
Telematics devices, especially those related to driver behavior and vehicle tracking, must comply with legal and regulatory standards. For example, dashcams might need to meet privacy regulations depending on the region, and GPS tracking devices might need to comply with specific transportation laws.
Familiarity with Industry Regulations: Ensure that the technician is knowledgeable about relevant regulations, such as the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate in the US or GDPR compliance for video surveillance in Europe.
Conclusion
Hiring or contracting a technician for telematics device installations in your fleet is a critical decision that will impact the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of your fleet management operations. When evaluating potential candidates, it’s important to focus on their technical expertise, understanding of fleet needs, reliability, and reputation. By thoroughly vetting the technician and ensuring they meet your business's unique requirements, you can ensure a smooth installation process and maximize the benefits of your telematics investments.
Incorporating telematics into your fleet is a major step toward modernizing your operations—make sure the installation is handled by a technician who can deliver quality results that meet your long-term objectives, even if the technician is referred to you, or scheduled, by your vendor.