While huge loads of data might seem very appealing for any Fleet Manager, it is crucial to make sure that the data you get is the RIGHT DATA. Meaning you can benefit directly from it: reduced costs, optimized tasks, predict battery failure or other components’ lifespan ahead of time, and other advanced predictive analytics.
That’s why the fleet management departments need a shift in the paradigm: go for quality data, not any data.
Here is a raw example of how quantity over quality compromised the results of the reports meant to optimize the activities.
Fuel levels oscillations
We have a case where the customer requested the Fuel Level (Liters) on an OBD2 device. As you see the Fuel Level is not stable while the vehicle is moving and the request is an instant value requested by OBD2 PID, which is not accurate. Unfortunately, the vehicle moved continuously from the beginning until it stopped.
Looking into this graph, which one of the values can be considered the real one for the fuel level? How can a fleet manager determine and make a relevant report about a vehicle and a driver with so many fluctuations in only one parameter- fuel level?
We analyzed the same vehicle, in the same trip and below you have the graph with the same parameter, read directly from the CAN bus (without cutting the wires) instead of OBD2. As the CAN bus gathers the data from all of the ECUs inside the vehicle, the information is provided directly from the vehicle on-board computers. The graph shows a constant value for the fuel level, as it refers to the volume of liquid inside the tank.
At the end of the log, when the ignition is switched off, the Fuel Level oscillates between good and incorrect value. This is an “on the field” test done in order to show the importance of correct data in designing and implementing a fleet management solution.
A long-term investment
Our recommendation is to see a telematics device as an investment, not an expense. The ROI should be taken into consideration, as your company is managing the cost of the service by using the software to tackle challenges and goals such as reducing fuel usage.
Before making a decision over a solution, run a cost-benefit analysis. Estimate the amount of money a device could save or make you in the mid-long term and compare that to the costs. If you need data points for your analysis, ask experts in the field or start with a small pilot project on one vehicle.
Talk to an expert to know your options
It is our goal to help fleet managers obtain the best results through offering them the best solutions on the market. Talk to one of our experts and learn more about your options and long-term benefits.
