Deploying vehicle tracking software can be a formidable undertaking for a fleet of any size. Along with organizing device installations and getting employees up to speed on how to use the system, the toughest part of the deployment can be introducing the technology to drivers who have privacy concerns with vehicle tracking software. Infringing on driver privacy is a major concern for many fleet managers and it is important to approach the subject in the right way to gain acceptance. Fleet Financial Magazine’s recent article, Tackling Fleet Driver Privacy Issues, addresses privacy concerns with vehicle tracking software and provides direction for fleet managers to avoid infringing on driver privacy during a deployment. Some of the recommendations in this article include being transparent with employees about implementation, injecting vehicle tracking into driver policies, and focusing on tracking vehicles, not the employees themselves.
Transparency Is Critical
The #1 mistake fleet managers make during implementation that causes privacy concerns with vehicle tracking software is not being forthcoming with employees about their plans to start tracking. It is strongly advised to introduce GPS tracking to employees, be honest about your plans to use vehicle tracking from the start, explain how your business will be using it, and reassure them that it will not be an invasion of their privacy. Concerns with vehicle tracking software should be reduced once drivers understand the tangible incentives like the potential to increase their compensation, less time spent in traffic, proof to dispute false claims made against them, increase safety, and more. By clearly explaining the software, drivers will understand the need to have the technology in place and privacy concerns with vehicle tracking software will be mitigated.
Update Driver Policies to Reduce Privacy Concerns with Vehicle Tracking Software
A good way to communicate with employees about how your fleet will be using vehicle tracking is adding it directly into your driver policies. This explains why your business is using the software and what is being monitored, and what the rules and expectations are for drivers which are helpful for training new employees and will defuse any complaints about privacy down the line. It is important to draft driver policies in the right away to avoid infringing on privacy. A well-written policy will speak to employee safety and tracking vehicles, not tracking the employees themselves. Some examples of sections in driver policies that can be added or updated with vehicle tracking data include: • Driver safety • Posted speed violations • Vehicle usage during specific times of day • Acceptable idle time thresholds • Vehicle maintenance requirements
It’s About Tracking Expensive Company Property
Using vehicle tracking is not about getting employees in trouble or invading their privacy; it is about monitoring expensive company assets to reduce costs, reduce risk, and increase revenue. You have a responsibility to ensure company property is being used for work purposes only, is driven safely and according to state laws, and is properly maintained. When drivers are operating company vehicles and equipment, they should be aware that there is accountability involved. Making it clear how this technology will be used will result in less opposition from drivers. Being straightforward with your plans for vehicle tracking and addressing issues head-on will develop trust with your drivers. Once employees understand the value and why your business will be using it, privacy concerns with vehicle tracking software should be few and far between.
