Telematics: the route to best results
Choosing the right telematics provider for your commercial fleet safety solutions is a major decision. Brigade examines some factors to consider
The telematics industry can be confusing for customers, with many different options, technologies and suppliers to consider. This includes GPS systems, onboard diagnostics and wireless devices which transmit data such as speed, location, maintenance requirements and any information which contributes to the safety of the vehicle and its driver.
With the evolution of telematics, many providers now offer video-based solutions which assist drivers by identifying vulnerable road users and creating alerts in order to reduce the frequency and severity of incidents.
Experience has shown us that when customers look for telematics, their main concerns are good integration, actionable insights and measurable return on investment:
Cost versus value
There’s a budget to balance and cost is going to be an important factor in the decision-making process. However, in dealing with safety solutions it is not wise to cut corners. Therefore, investing in products which will take anything thrown at them and have undergone rigorous testing for reliability, in all weathers and on all types of terrain, is crucial.
Alongside this, extensive, knowledgeable customer service back-up and reliable warranties are also important. Brigade’s feature-rich telematics systems are excellent value without compromising on quality.
Industry fitness
Each industry sector has its different requirements. Mining and quarrying vehicles will need specific telematics solutions which wouldn’t work for a farm tractor, construction digger or low loader. A practical telematics provider will help a customer to work out exactly the right package for their specific needs, without adding unnecessary extras which won’t work for your industry.
Through Brigade’s integration with Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, it offers a seamless experience where all safety system data is accessible.
This unified approach eliminates the need for additional software installations or separate logins, streamlining fleet management and enhancing operational efficiency. Having industry-specific safety solutions will ensure your fleet operates safely and efficiently within your sector.
Data ownership and security
One of customers’ most important concerns will naturally be the security of their data within a telematics package. Ensuring that fleet operators retain full control over their sensitive data is important. Brigade’s products are ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified, demonstrating its adherence to stringent information security management standards.
Alongside this, it conducts rigorous due diligence on all third-party suppliers to verify their security measures, safeguarding your data throughout the supply chain.
Technological innovation
It’s important to ensure your provider is at the forefront of technology, knowledgeably integrating AI, machine learning and predictive analytics capabilities into its products with a reliable upgrading system.
Technological innovation is the watchword at Brigade, a pioneer of the integration of AI and advanced analytics into vehicle safety solutions. Its award-winning Backeye360 AI Camera System, which provides a 360-degree high-definition view and uses AI to detect humans, effectively eliminates blind spots and enhances driver awareness.
Since then, Brigade has expanded its AI offerings, including the AI Connected Dashcam – a compact, dual-camera system which monitors driver behaviour and gives advance warning of potential incidents.
All Brigade’s solutions seamlessly integrate with platforms like Webfleet. This aids the processing of events with video evidence directly within Webfleet, eliminating the need for additional software.
This footage can be used to support proactive coaching on driving habits, improving overall safety, serves as crucial evidence for investigations, and provides comprehensive data insights, enabling predictive analytics to improve fleet efficiency, enhance driver safety, and optimise operational costs.
Brigade’s James Ashford said: “This is moving towards understanding why a collision happened, not just incidents in isolation. For instance, if the telematic element suggests driver distraction, the video footage may paint a different picture, or it may confirm a bad driving practice.”
Scalability and future proofing
Nobody wants to buy a telematics package and find that with the pace of innovation it’s obsolescent by the time it’s in use.
Designed to adapt to growing fleets and evolving technologies, Brigade’s telematics systems ensure operations are future proofed. Real-time tracking enables optimised route planning and improved scheduling, while geofencing enhances fleet control and security by monitoring vehicle movements within designated areas. Comprehensive reporting provides valuable insights for data-driven decision-making.
Ongoing support and problem-solving
It should go without saying that customers should expect first class post-purchase technical support, but will this live up to expectations? Having made a major investment, customers want to feel it’s the start of a long-term relationship, and that as soon as they pick up the phone, they’ll get through to someone who understands what you’re asking and knows how to help.
With nearly 50 years in the market, Brigade understands the critical importance of providing the right technical support. Its dedicated and knowledgeable customer service team, along with a technical support helpline manned by experienced technicians, ensures that it’s with you every step of the way.
In addition, its network of carefully chosen Brigade Service Partners (BSPs) supplies products, top-quality installation services, and comprehensive support to its customers.
Further information about Brigade’s telematics solutions is available on its website.
