Do you think apps will become more commonplace for fleets in the future?
Georgina Smith I do think drivers will become more aware of apps and their uses. I like drivers to have as much information at their fingertips as possible and if it saves them calling me for advice and information it frees my time up to do other essential duties.
Paul Green I think it will really depend on what fleets want the app to do and, more importantly, if it works as it should.
Christian Hook Yes. The need to access information or make a booking while out of the office is likely to become a standard requirement as fleet comes under pressure to make time and cost savings.
Selwyn Cooper I think apps can have a practical purpose for fleet users. With telematics now a firmly established tool in our industry, I’d also expect to see some of that information to be made available to drivers via their phones.
Which fleet-related apps would you like to see available in the future?
Georgina Smith As fleet managers we are made aware of such things as benefit-in-kind tax changes, but how much of this feeds down to the driver? If there was an app that just sent updates, the driver wouldn’t be overloaded with information but would be aware of the changes.
Paul Green Our tracking/telematics provider is working on an app to provide the service on a smartphone rather than just on a PC or iPad, which is good for management to view when not in the office.
Christian Hook Apps that have more functionality and allow the user to access the majority of the fleet supplier’s main website or portal.
Selwyn Cooper I’d like to see an app that educates users on how to drive safely.
Rebecca Hart - 08/10/2013 00:02
Mobile devices are becoming integral for how we conduct business and how we live our daily lives. Mobile apps on smartphones and tablets can help fleet managers save time, boost productivity, and make their jobs easier. However, businesses need to keep abreast of the new technologies and ensure that apps are user friendly and compatible with their chosen and ever changing mobile devices. There are many forms of operations; Android, iOS, Windows Phone, and other smartphones and tablets using Microsoft® Exchange ActiveSync®. Some Businesses commonly use BlackBerry devices which are not compatible with all apps. We must commence by configuring mobile devise settings at an organisational level, encourage an application culture through an IT support infrastructure and basic colleague training. Once drivers have used apps effectively they will be confident in using them more frequently.