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If your business relies on fleet operations, then you should always be on the lookout for how to optimize fleet performance. In doing so, you can reduce downtime, improve customer satisfaction, and improve overall fleet efficiency. 

You can improve your fleet's performance through the software you use, as well as the way you communicate with your fleet. It's not enough to wait for their paperwork to come in and assume everything is running smoothly. 

Here are five steps to follow if you want to optimize your fleet and improve your business's bottom line.

1. Implement Fleet Management Software

Like other industries, a lot of fleet management in the past was reliant on paper processes and slower communication methods. You wouldn't know something was wrong with a vehicle unless someone called it in or one of them failed to show up somewhere. Nowadays, advancements in technology allow your company to stay in touch with your fleet at every step. 

Fleet management software can do a lot of things for your company. Some of the core features include advanced telematics reporting, real-time GPS tracking, and automatic alerts. 

Telematic reporting refers to key data from the vehicles in your fleet. This includes activity milestones, mileage, and movement reports. Real-time GPS tracking allows you to track members of your fleet at all times. This helps in holding your drivers accountable while also providing key data. You can get alerted for any arrivals and departures from certain areas, as well as set up towing alerts. Some other solutions available with fleet management software are anti-theft tracking, asset tracking, and fleet maintenance.

Luckily, the software isn't too difficult to learn. Managers can bulk import vehicle identification numbers to receive specs. The software is also scalable to your needs, so you don't need to know how to use every single feature. 

2. Connect With Drivers

Staying connected to your team is a big benefit of modern fleet management systems. The overall goal is to bridge the gap between the field and your office. This is done through a mobile app that syncs up to your systems.

If you're a manager, you can also use the mobile app to do remote work. You'll always have access to your fleet and their data. That means you can also hold fleet drivers accountable if they fail to perform or show suspicious behavior.

3. Preventive Maintenance

Aside from the driver, vehicles are one of the most important parts of a fleet. Any downtime you face is often a result of inefficient fleet maintenance. You shouldn't wait until there's a problem before you take preventative measures. 

Proper fleet maintenance keeps your employees and their clients safe. Their vehicles will also last longer without needing emergency repairs. That saves your company money and makes your fleet more effective. Plan to incorporate regular maintenance appointments into your business schedule. A 3,000-mile maintenance plan is standard, but you can also schedule your appointments on a monthly basis.

4. Analyze the Data

Data collection and analysis software is one of the greatest inventions for businesses around the world. It allows you to assess your business strictly by the numbers and make adjustments that matter. If you're wondering how to optimize fleet performance, it'll largely happen with good data analysis. 

Calculate your fleet's total cost of ownership down to its cost-per-mile. Your fleet management software can provide insight into your spending habits, fuel management, maintenance parts, and other expenses. 

Measure metrics like utilization and performance to see what aspects of your fleet need improvement. With the help of your data, you can figure out the best time to replace your vehicles. 

Customer satisfaction is one area that can improve when you take the time to analyze the data. What are their biggest complaints? How have certain changes affected your fleet's interaction with their clients? 

Take the time to look at what the data is saying. Even a simple infographic made online can prove beneficial. 

Demo How to Optimize Fleet Performance

If you're wondering how to optimize fleet performance, then fleet management software is the answer. Gather data about key information like maintenance costs and driver performance. Stay connected with drivers and track your vehicles. 

Cellutrak offers a complete line of GPS tracking devices that come with telematics and reporting functionality. Interested in seeing what we can do for your business? Contact us to request a live demo and hear back from a solution expert within the next 24 hours.