How to Introduce Telematics to Your Staff

It’s only natural for drivers to have questions about the implementation of telematics. When change isn’t fully understood, it can sometimes be viewed as something to fear. Frankly, being smart about getting your workforce on-board is vital for a smooth transition.

Below, we demonstrate how you can put a strategy in place to help ease driver concerns.

Call a meeting

It has been reported that almost half of businesses face driver resistance when introducing telematics, and in some instances, around 58% of business management said they do not conduct a formal conversation through the implementation process.

We simply cannot emphase enough the importance of you explaining the benefits of telematics to your drivers. After all, there are plenty of reasons why they should be just as enthusiastic about telematics as you. You’ll need to openly indicate how vehicle tracking will make their lives easier by reducing paperwork, improving safety, protecting them in various serious situations, and ultimately improving the health of the organisation.

Let your staff understand the reasons behind the change in an open and honest way. You can easily reduce any fear and apprehension by explaining that tracking devices do not exist to spy on employees. Instead, we suggest that you communicate the need for helping managers allocate resources more effectively.

And don’t be afraid of your drivers asking questions. The more they know about the technology, the more they’ll understand what it’s for and how it can benefit them.

 

Create a driver handbook

Create a handy guide to show your drivers everything they need to know. Demonstrate what’s in it for them, why you’re doing bringing this technology into the business and what they can expect.

Give the handbook to your drivers at the meeting to support what you have to say. Let drivers browse the booklet in their own time and invite them to approach you for clarification if they need it.

"Honesty was the best policy when it came to successfully justifying why we were introducing Telematics". - Andy Brown, Transport Manager, Wirral Partnership Housing

 

Reduce fear through training

Attempting to navigate new technology can be daunting, even for the most tech savvy individuals. Your drivers may object because they feel they won’t be able to use the technology properly or that it will take up unnecessary time on the road.

With just 20-30 minutes of one-on-one training, your drivers will have a solid understanding of how the system works. As today’s technology allows for extremely user-friendly interfaces, most drivers will in fact be able to teach themselves. But always ensure your workforce knows you are committed to providing support throughout the change if they need it.

 

Introduce an incentives programme

While you’re communicating the finer details of the new system, introduce additional benefits that will further reduce driver objections. A great way to curb conflict is by offering a reward system for drivers who perform well.

Tell your staff that the information provided by telematics will allow you to offer bonuses to drivers who have the least amount of offenses each month. Alternatively, you could announce a Driver of the Week competition to reward driver safety and fuel efficiency.

Incentive programmes will help your drivers feel more invested it new technology and will therefore create healthy competition amongst peers.

If you run a small business, you may find it’s easier to bring your drivers together to communicate the changes. Although each individual and company is different, with the right strategy, you can quickly limit objections by fostering communication and clarity.

 

When you have a united team, your business will experience the benefits. Through open communication and support, you will have the best platform in place to increase productivity, improve driver safety and reduce costs.