Routing and Route Optimization
An Overview in MyGeotab
Not too long ago drivers of fleets were working from paper maps with directions laid out on paper, in addition to their own memory to come up with the best possible route for reaching desired destinations. But with the introduction of advanced technology and fleet management solutions, companies and organizations with large fleets have recognized the significance of routing and route optimization for improving overall fleet efficiency.
In an economy of rising fuel prices, routing has proven to be one of the most important features in fleet management. It can significantly increase the efficiency and productivity of the fleet while simultaneously reducing costs. The routing aspect of fleet management has always been especially important to fleet managers. For instance, a fleet manager at a parcel delivery company would be responsible for scheduling a delivery plan every day for each driver using the optimal route. The driver would then follow the pre-scheduled route. While this may have been sufficient, it was not the most efficient form of management – there was room for simplification to increase productivity. With the integration of routing into the ever-advancing fleet management systems, drivers now follow pre-scheduled routes that have been imputed into the system and sent directly to the specific driver. At the end of the day, fleet managers are able to observe whether the driver has followed the provided route and can then use this as a determinant of individual productivity.
In the MyGeotab fleet management software, users can easily create a route consisting of multiple zones on a map, which the driver can then see from the GPS device in their vehicle.
Geotab also provides a simple way to compare the planned versus actual routes, as well as important information such as:
- Expected arrival time
- Actual arrival time
- Stopped zone
- Idling duration
In addition, managers can access the Route Summary Report to find out the number of routes that have been followed over any given time period. This will allow them to acquire a complete summary of the entire fleet. Through the Route Summary Report, users also have access to important routing information such as:
- The route name
- First departure
- Last arrival time
- Office duration
- Home duration
- Driving distance
Route Summary Report: Routing and Route Optimization
Route Summary Report: Routing and Route Optimization
This video shows: reporting of routes, route optimization and suggestions of how to balance the routes.
Once the routes have been setup, use the reporting system to evaluate and optimize the routes.
Using this information you can make decisions about performance, balance of the routes and make
decisions to help improve fuel savings and customer service.
