Is Telematics Solutions the Same as GPS?

Telematics solutions and GPS technologies are the standards of the fleet industry. Mainly because these technologies gather and deliver real-time data to managers who can further use this information to run the daily operation. However, more recent technologies that come with automation, AI, and machine learning can enable fleet management to gain visibility and control over their fleets.

Are Fleet Telematics Solutions and GPS Different?

Telematics and GPS are two terms often referred to when discussing vehicle tracking and navigation, but they actually are not

GPS (Global Positioning System)

GPS is a technology, through which the user can derive exact location information anywhere in the world. It works by orbiting a constellation of satellites all over the world. 

The satellites send signals back to GPS receivers found in equipment such as smartphone navigation systems and vehicle navigation.

Based on the time taken by the signals from several satellites to reach the receiver, it can determine an accurate geographical location, which then will be displayed as coordinates – latitude and longitude. 

Its main application is used in navigation, where an individual can plot or plan routes to determine directions and find particular points of interest.

Telematics Solutions 

Telematics is a term that incorporates telecommunications and information processing with the gathering, transmission, and analysis of data. 

In the case of vehicles, fleet telematics solutions mean much more than just location tracking. It supervises driver behavior monitoring, vehicle and driver performance, and diagnostics. It collects data from multiple sensors within the vehicle and the GPS is sent to a central database or a cloud-based platform.  

This data can include speed, fuel consumption, engine status, vehicle routes, maintenance alerts, and many more time data might be included.

Key Difference Between Telematics and GPS Fleet Tracking Solutions

1. Application: GPS can only be used for location-based services, but telematics can be considered the collection of all data associated with a vehicle, including location if GPS and other operational metrics are considered.

2. Functionality: GPS is passive in nature since it has to be received by a receiver in order to decode signals sent out by satellites to generate location data. Telematics, however, is the active collection and transmission of various kinds of data based on the capabilities of cellular networks or other forms of communication technologies.

3. Uses: GPS mainly in navigation and location tracking. In telematics, it will be applied by businesses to enhance fleet management, safety, vehicle diagnostics, and route optimization for better fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

4. Data Complexity: The data available in GPS is basically coordinates that are geographic in nature and are only used for navigation. Telematics provides more data that would be able to analyze where it reveals about driver behaviors, maintenance needs, or operation efficiency.

How GPS and Telematics Solutions Enhance Businesses

GPS and telematics are essentially used together to enable great enhancement in how businesses oversee their vehicle fleets. Businesses can benefit from using such technologies, automatically increasing the effectiveness of their operation and profitability.

• Vehicle Tracking

The business can see where the vehicle is at all times using GPS. This allows tracking of deliveries in real-time. If a driver is delayed, you will be able to quickly determine why and inform the customers. This will build trust and improve customer satisfaction.

• Improved Route Planning

Telematics systems analyze data from GPS to find the best routes for drivers. Drivers can avoid traffic jams and road construction. It saves time and reduces fuel costs. It benefits the environment and lowers expenses since vehicles use less fuel.

• Enhanced Safety

GPS and telematics can track driving behavior.  Both solutions help in monitoring the vehicle’s speed, rapid acceleration, and hard braking. If a company is aware of risky behaviors, it can train the drivers. Accident-free driving saves accidents and keeps the driver and the vehicle safe.

• Maintenance Alerts

Telematics systems such as TB Lite monitor the health of vehicles. Some systems enable the generation of alerts based on schedules for maintenance or replacement of parts. Preventive maintenance avoids breakdowns and prolongs the life of vehicles. This is a valuable money-saving technique in the long run.

• Higher Productivity

Businesses can improve the performance of their fleet using GPS and telematics. In this respect, managers are able to allocate jobs using vehicle availability and location. 

• Cost Saving

Using GPS and telematics helps cut costs in many different areas. There is no denying that saving fuel, lower maintenance rates, and reduced accident rates all translate into a healthier bottom line. Companies can also save on insurance by showing safer driving practices.

• Better Customer Service

You will know exactly where your vehicles are, which will allow you to make the most accurate delivery time estimations to the customers. This reliability ensures great customer satisfaction and repeat business. 

Before You Go!

Combining GPS with video telematics solutions benefits businesses using vehicle fleets by offering many more advantages than any of the systems would.

Telematics is the brain, providing important data and analysis for an optimized fleet operation. GPS is the eyes that help businesses track the location of assets while improving efficiency.

Investment in GPS and telematics solutions such as Trackobit will enable companies to increase profitability while ensuring good services to their customers.