Everything Fleetcam®
October 12, 2023 | Andrew Santosusso | Fleet Management Telematics
Technological innovation is transforming industries far and wide—and fleet operations are no exception. With the advent of automation and advanced analytics, the industry is experiencing a digital revolution that’s reshaping the way fleets operate. One such breakthrough is automated driver coaching software; a game-changer that’s set to streamline processes, enhance safety, reduce operational costs, and improve fleet efficiency.
So let’s delve into the basics of automated driver coaching software, explore the ways it can bolster fleet operations, and look into the future with solutions like DriveShield from Forward Thinking Systems.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of how automated driver coaching software can improve your fleet operations, we need to understand what it is and why it’s making waves in the industry.
Imagine a system that harnesses the power of onboard fleet management platforms like FleetCam Pro, combining cameras, sensors, and GPS technology to capture a wealth of driver performance data. Automated driver coaching software is that solution – a sophisticated, cutting-edge solution that uses your data to automate and optimize the driver coaching process.
Driver coaching software uses data collected from sensors and telematics devices installed in your vehicles to monitor driver behavior. It then provides real-time feedback and coaching opportunities to cultivate safer and more efficient driving habits.
FleetCam identifies safety-related metrics, such as speeding, harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and distracted driving behaviors, which are tagged as unsafe driving events and presented to drivers through in-cab alerts, dashboard displays, or mobile apps. The driver coaching software empowers drivers to self-correct their behavior by showing them the exact details of each event, which they can review and acknowledgement or dispute.
The driver coaching software also generates detailed reports and analytics on driver performance, comparing events over recent and past periods to identify emerging patterns. Fleet managers can use these reports to identify trends, reward safe driving behavior, and address performance issues. DriveShield takes this concept a step further by presenting drivers with a daily scorecard, giving them complete control of their score by highlighting their strengths and weaknesses on the same analytics chart that their supervisor views. This helps drivers better understand their performance and illustrates where they need to improve.
Now that we’ve established what automated driver coaching software is and why it’s important, let’s explore how it can improve your fleet operations.
Traditional driver coaching methods can be time-consuming and inconsistent, taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Automated driver coaching software responds to each driver’s behavior, offering them the opportunity to self-coach when events are triggered. If a driver’s unwanted driving habits don’t improve after self-coaching, the driver is automatically enrolled in a couching course to address the specific behavior.
This streamlined, self-coaching process takes most of the burden off of managers for in-person coaching sessions, as issues only escalate to a supervisor when patterns of poor driving behavior continue. And equipped with the driver’s full history of events and analytics, the supervisor can ensure that follow-up coaching is targeted and relevant.
To aid drivers when they’re behind the wheel, FleetCam uses AI and advanced sensors to detect unsafe driving habits. The system then generates audiovisual, in-cab alerts prompting them to stop or correct unsafe behavior in real-time. For example, in-cab alerts discourage drivers from texting while driving, wake up fatigued drivers, and help enforce no-smoking policies.
Once detected, these events are passed to the driver coaching software for driver review and self-coaching. This instant feedback from in-cab alerts and ongoing coaching opportunities accelerates the learning process and encourages drivers to adopt safer habits.
By automating driver coaching, fleets can significantly reduce costs associated with traditional coaching methods. The learning process is streamlined and ongoing, enabling new drivers to become proficient more quickly and promoting a culture of safety among veteran drivers.
By improving overall driving practices, driver coaching can contribute to significant mechanical savings as well. Well-trained drivers operate their vehicles more efficiently, avoiding excessive idling, aggressive acceleration, and hard braking. These behaviors can reduce fuel consumption, a significant cost-saving factor for fleet operations, and avoid unnecessary wear and tear on fleet vehicles.
Moreover, emphasizing safe driving practices, such as maintaining appropriate following distances and avoiding risky behaviors, can lead to fewer accidents, lower insurance premiums, and less downtime for vehicles and drivers.
Better coaching means better drivers, who can contribute to fleet efficiency by optimizing routes and ensuring timely deliveries. Well-trained drivers are better equipped to handle unexpected situations and maintain delivery schedules. They understand the importance of route adherence and commercial navigation tools, resulting in shorter travel times, timely deliveries, and more satisfied customers.
As we look into the crystal ball, one thing is clear: Automated driver coaching software will be a critical part of successful fleet operations. And DriveShield stands out as the industry-leading driver coaching solution.
With its cutting-edge features and capabilities, DriveShield is ushering in a new era of efficiency, safety, and excellence on the road. Embracing such innovative technologies is not just a choice, but a necessity for any fleet looking to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.