SDS simplifies data analysis with Fleetclear Connect
Spelthorne Direct Services (SDS), a provider of commercial waste management services and a wholly owned subsidiary of Spelthorne Borough Council, has installed Fleetclear camera systems across its fleet and is using Fleetclear Connect software to simplify data retrieval and analysis.
The move was driven by the difficulties and time involved in accessing footage through the company’s previous camera system.
Graham Boswell, business development officer at SDS, explained: “We had an issue with accessing footage from our previous camera systems. If a complaint was made against us, for example alleging that we had damaged a vehicle, we would have to physically connect a laptop to the cab and then trawl through huge volumes of data to find the relevant footage to send to our insurance company. On many occasions, we even experienced technical problems trying to download the selected footage.”
Added Graham: “I came across Fleetclear at an industry event and decided to trial its four-camera system on one of our vehicles. The clarity of the footage was amazing, but more importantly I could access the footage on my laptop whilst the vehicle was still out on its round. We could see collection rounds in detail and retrieve specific footage from any date and time within minutes.”
SDS trialled the system for six months before equipping a second vehicle with Fleetclear cameras. As part of a wider programme to digitalise fleet operations, SDS is also using the web-based Fleetclear Connect platform to consolidate information from its vehicle safety systems into one centralised management portal.
The platform removes the need for manual downloads while simplifying reporting, analysis and day-to-day fleet management.
Graham commented: “We’re a very happy customer. If we receive complaints about missed bin collections or alleged vehicle damage, it only takes a few minutes to investigate and resolve the issue. The time we’re saving makes a huge difference, and the system itself is much easier to use. Fleetclear’s service is very responsive. If we have any questions or need support, there’s always someone at the end of the phone, and we receive regular visits from Alfie, our account manager.”
Following the success of the new system at SDS, Spelthorne Borough Council has also confirmed the decision to switch its entire fleet of refuse and sweeper vehicles to Fleetclear.
Jason Maddern, head of municipal at Fleetclear, said: “Our HGV and fleet video monitoring solutions camera systems are perfect for complete surveillance and for providing complete peace of mind for commercial operations. I’m delighted that SDS is happy with our products and that our commitment to providing excellent after-sales support has also been recognised. We look forward to developing our relationship with both SDS and Spelthorne District Council.”
