GPS Installation: 6 Smart Questions to Ask Potential Providers .

A fleet software company’s GPS installation process says a lot about what you can expect from them. But how do you know what to expect before your provider’s technicians show up to install your GPS devices?  

It all starts with the discovery process.  

Here are some questions about GPS tracking installation that you should ask before you commit to a provider.  

Who Will Install My GPS Devices?  

There are two main options for getting your GPS devices installed:  

• professional installation 
• self-installation 

Professional installation usually involves local vendors contracted with the GPS provider. As we mentioned earlier, it’s smart to ask your potential providers how they screen local vendors.  

We also recommend asking about the expertise of the in-house installation team. Providers with staff members holding MECP or Emergency Vehicle certifications are likely to provide a better installation. 

Self-installation can be a good option for larger organizations with their own vehicle maintenance teams and adequate resources. It’s also important that they review the installation documentation and are comfortable with the requirements and have internal resources to assist your team. 

How Do You Make Sure the GPS Installation Goes Well?  

There are many scenarios that can cause problems during an installation. The best installation processes start long before a technician arrives on-site.  

The best assurance of a quality installation is an experienced team. There are many variables in any GPS device installation. Experienced providers will have teams that can handle challenges ranging from complex wiring questions to supporting customers who choose to install the devices themselves.  

It’s also smart to find out whether the providers on your shortlist can verify the installations, whether they’re handled by preferred vendors or the customers.  

How do You Select Your GPS Installation Vendors?  

Avoid any provider that makes it sound like they’ll accept any installer as a vendor. If your provider carefully screens potential installers, you can tell they’re sweating the details.  

Asking about your potential provider’s vendor screening process can be enlightening.

• Do they ask vendors to demonstrate their expertise?
• Do they ask for proof of insurance?
• Do they require vendors to follow a specific Standard Operating Procedure? 
• How does the provider ensure that local vendors and the in-house team have extensive knowledge of 12- and 24-volt vehicle and equipment electrical systems.  

What Do You Do to Track Customer Satisfaction?  

Installing hardware is only one step in a successful relationship. Some providers consider the job done once the hardware is up and running.  

Better providers, though, constantly look for ways to improve their process. That’s because they’re invested in the customer’s success. If they don’t have a smooth installation process, they might not be encouraged to rely on their GPS tracking devices. That means they won’t get results that can help them improve their business.  

So what’s a good level of involvement from a provider? Providers who gather post-installation surveys are off to an excellent start. Customer surveys can provide valuable information about pain points on the ground. Providers that have an in-house installation coordinator also get more direct feedback on customer satisfaction.  

How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues?  

There should be no surprises in the installation process if your provider does a good job vetting vendors. But it’s possible to run into unexpected obstacles. So how will a provider respond to those challenges? 

An extensive SOP manual is what sets reputable GPS installation teams apart. The in-house teams and local vendors should both be well-versed in this SOP. 

It also helps if your provider ensures that the devices are en route or delivered before scheduling. Sometimes, installation teams have arrived on–site to find that the devices haven’t been delivered yet. That’s a waste of time and money. 

Another precaution that better providers take is to hold calls with the customer and vendor to make sure everyone is comfortable with the process, schedule, and expectations.  

Do You Select Vendors Who Offer the Lowest Prices? 

Cost is always a consideration for organizations. It makes sense to get the most for your money. But installation is one part of the process that seldom gets the best results from the lowest bidder. Some GPS providers will pay installers as little as $45 per vehicle. It’s nearly impossible to do quality work at that price.  

Paying more for installation can ensure that your devices work correctly – and that you won’t have to take vehicles out of service for follow-up work.  It’s best to discuss the quality control measures with the provider. 

The Road to a Better Device Installation 

If you want your fleet management devices to deliver, it’s crucial to start with an excellent installation. Follow these steps, and you’ll improve your odds of success right out of the gate. Rather than endless back-and-forth about faulty installations, you’ll get insights that will help your bottom line — right out of the gate.