IT skills are essential
Running a fleet is hard work and comes with a lot of responsibilities.
One of the major issues faced is safety. The more a van is out on the road, the higher chance there is of an accident. With several vans out on the road at the same time, safety is paramount and that’s why it is important to be clued up on the latest technological advancements.
There are a few useful tools that can help improve the safety of your fleet. Below you will discover more about safety issues and the top problems fleet managers face:
1. Providing a cost effective, environmentally friendly service
One thing that consumers are constantly looking for these days is an environmentally friendly service. They actively seek out efficient products and services and are more clued up than ever before on ways to save the planet. However, as every fleet manager will know, providing a cost effective environmentally fleet is hard work! The key is to become a good negotiator. Whether you plan on buying or leasing the vehicles, there are cost savings to be made if you know how to effectively negotiate.
2. Safety can be a huge headache
One of the most important requirements of a fleet manager is to ensure the safety of their drivers and the public. This can be extremely difficult to do if you run a large fleet. The good news is there are devices you can invest in to provide you with better peace of mind. There are a variety of offers on vehicle security systems, from alarms to monitors, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to stay up to date. It is worth taking a look at the different types of security systems to see which ones would best fit your fleet’s needs.
3. IT Skills are essential
While the digital age has certainly improved the auto industry, it has also changed the way in which fleet managers do business. These days a fleet manager needs to have excellent IT skills as software applications and the internet have become extremely important. Giving customers the ability to rent vehicles online is an essential service you will need to provide. Unless you have good IT skills the job will be a lot harder.
4. Cost control
Another common problem fleet managers face is cost control. This has been particularly important after the most recent economic crisis and it is hard finding a balance between providing a high quality service while reducing costs and lowering your carbon footprint.
5. Employing the right people
Many fleet managers want to see a change in policy to help with retention and recruitment. Hiring the right staff is one of the most important parts of running a fleet. Highly skilled and trained drivers are needed and they aren’t always easy to find.
Overall, fleet managers face a lot of potential problems. It can be a very stressful job and there are many challenges that need to be overcome. The good news is there are plenty of things that can help make the job easier, including safety equipment and technology which provides increased driver safety.
Debbie Fletcher is a writer for Brigade Elections, specialising in vehicle safety solutions
