Displaying your company logo to your internal apps adds a touch of professionalism. When you want to send a screen shot of the UI to show some critical detail to a customer or vendor, your logo displayed on the screen adds credibility. For that reason, Fleetistics has made it easy for our clients to add their logo to their MyFleetistics portal.
Easy as 1-2-3
First, log in to MyFleetistics and go to Account > Profile.
Next, click “Select Logo” and browse for your company logo in a jpeg or png format.
Finally, open the file and click “Save” on the lower right. Your logo will now appear at the top left of the screen. Thanks to Woody at the University of Rochester for agreeing to be our example.
All Done
Your company logo now shows where the Fleetistics logo was formerly displayed.
Before you go, take a minute to update or verify your profile.
The company profile section of MyFleetistics has areas for you to update your company information, contacts, addresses, and even add branch locations. This improves the accuracy of billing and the efficiency of support.In the future it will enable custom views on dashboards and other data.
Please take a moment to verify this information is current after uploading your logo. My Fleetistics continues to add features and services, and this information can be connected to pre-fill request forms with the needed contact details to save you time.
Fleetistics has been the Tampa GPS Tracking and Telematics authority since the technology was in its infancy. We are recognized as a leading provider of fleet management technology both locally and nationally from Tampa since April 2001. Fleetistics was formally known as GPS Fleet Solutions for the first 15 years of operation. Over time the industry focus shifted from GPS tracking equipment to data-driven solutions. To reflect that shift GPS Fleet Solutions became Fleetistics (Fleet – Statistics).
Fleet Management Platforms – Select Fleet Size & Requirements – Enterprise | Medium | Small
The long-term goal of Fleetistics is to translate data from any source and process it into readily consumable information. Data that comes from GPS tracking, dash cameras, sales reports, and other IoT devices provides a clearer picture when viewed contextually as part of a larger puzzle. We can leverage more out of every system when we use them together.
Additionally, the information provided at the right time, and in the right format, increases ROI. It enables fleet managers and field service operations to make good decisions quickly. By knowing the historical trend, a future trajectory can be projected. This allows fleet operators and other Tampa GPS tracking consumers to visualize where their business is going in the next 30 to 90 days.
Tampa’s #1 GPS Vehicle Tracking and Fleet Management Provider
As part of transforming into an information company, Fleetistics has developed several key capabilities. We are focused on development that facilitates growth and success in the telematics industry in Tampa, Florida, and nationally. As a result, Fleetistics has custom-developed our tools to take complex data strings from IoT devices and decode the information.
Simplifying Complex Integration
When data is transmitted by an IoT device (Compare GPS trackers) the data is sort of like a VIN. The entire GPS coordinate, battery voltage, and other status data are not clearly included in plain language. Instead, the data is put into a code string and each letter or number, or combination, in the string represents something. It is very much like the VIN on a vehicle but more complicated.
The reason it is done this way is to minimize the number of kilobytes being transmitted. Sending a complete latitude and longitude + other data might be 10 kilobytes but the same data is encoded in a string it is 2 kilobytes. Over the course of a day or month, the 80% savings is reflected in a significant cost reduction from cellular carriers like AT&T,Verizon, T-Mobile, and Telefonica.
We process that complex data into a usable API saving our clients the time, cost, and frustration associated with complex development projects. Call us to learn more.
Globalstar data from GPS and other devices is harvested and transmitted by their network of LEO (low earth orbit) satellites. This network provides coverage for 80% of the earth’s surface. They are the premier low-cost satellite communications provider for our industry. When cellular services simply do not provide enough coverage and two-way communication is not needed, Globalstar is the recognized cost-effective leader.
The Globalstar vision statement clearly communicates that connectivity is one of the great commodities in people’s lives today and they are committed to sustainment of the most reliable communication services.
Raw Globalstar Data Processing for Custom Solutions
Fleet managers face significant programming challenges and expense when planning to implement Globalstar data. First of all, developers must decode the data from the device. The data from Globalstar devices is delivered in a complex code string. Each number in the code string means something, similar to a VIN code on a vehicle.
In contrast, Globalstar code strings are not straightforward like a VIN. The code string must be translated into a usable format before being processed. Only then can you direct the data to the correct destination and insert it into a database. This requires infrastructure and extensive development.
Fortunately, Fleetistics offers a service that covers these steps. The processed data is provided to clients via API. Clients use the API to insert the data into their database, and it is available for use as needed by the customer.
The Fleetistics data service enables customers to implement Globalstar technology significantly faster, and moves the maintenance of the APIs and processing service to Fleetistics. As new Globalstar devices, protocols and services are updated, Fleetistics updates the web service to support all Fleetistics customers.
Small and Medium Size Business Challenges
This technology is readily available for use, but Globalstar products provide raw data. They do not provide a one size fits all user interface that allows you to consume Globalstar data and integrate it into your daily business operations.
Fleetistics has the back end for Globalstar data products in place and ready for you to use. GPS location reporting is integrated into the MyFleetistics portal, complete with monitoring and event alerts for your mobile assets almost anywhere. You can have all the advantages without taking on a costly and complicated development project.
Integrated Solutions
MyFleetistics existing Asset Tracker integration provides a user-friendly interface to view Globalstar tracking updates. We also provide a variety of premium services in addition to standard GPS asset tracking. After hours Priority Notification Service, Globalstar data displayed on road, satellite, or weather maps, and forecast weather overlays are just a few of the choices. We also have a device health view connected to our tech-support services that allows you to quickly identify devices displaying low battery voltage, and devices that have not reported.
Fleetistics turns that raw Globalstar data into valuable and easily consumable business intelligence, without the hassle of developing in house. Call us today for a live demo or to discuss your custom integration needs.
Single sign-on (SSO) is quickly becoming one of the most requested features we provide. It is not surprising that fleets using multiple technologies struggle with managing users. Drivers and support employees access multiple apps and software platforms to do their jobs. In Fleet operations, the GPS tracking solutions, maintenance software, ELD and MVR services all require logins and ongoing user rights management. Certainly, it is a challenge for managers to keep up with users across multiple platforms. Similarly, users struggle to remember multiple login URLs and passwords. Additionally, as employees are hired and retired each platform has to be updated. If an employee leaves under duress it becomes even more important to remove them from all systems. In departments that are already understaffed, all of this can create utter chaos.
Normally, when an employee joins or departs an organization HR or IT adds or removes them from network access. This is their access for payroll, reporting, and other internal services, so someone is almost always on top of keeping users up to date. Unfortunately, it doesn’t translate through to the platforms the fleet department has to manage on their own.
Fleetistics Active Directory Integration
Fleetistics understands the time and effort that goes into managing users on top of all other fleet management tasks. In response, we developed a service that integrates with Active Directory. When the IT department updates a user, the user’s access to MyFleetistics, and the incorporated telematics platforms are also updated. As new employees are added to the company network, the IT department assigns them to a GPS user group. That group assignment determines their permissions within MyFleetistics. That means fleet managers no longer need to add or remove users from MyFleetistics. More importantly, when an employee leaves the company and their network access is removed, their access to MyFleetistics is removed as well.
Fleetistics has many years of experience working with large fleets with many users. In large organizations with hundreds or thousands of users, this is a huge time saver. It also significantly improves company security. Finally, the employee’s user experience is improved as well. They can use a single sign-on (SSO) which means they don’t have to keep entering their login credentials. After they log into their computer or onto the network, they will click a link specific to a customer and they will be authenticated and allowed to pass through to MyFleetistics.
Is Single Sign-On Secure?
Our integration uses a standard method and capability provided by Microsoft. There are many variables that make this process a minimal risk in relation to the value provided. The most important aspect of the security to understand is that user credentials are not being passed and all critical information is encrypted.
Other User Rights Management Platforms
The Fleetistics integration with Active Directory supports both ADFS and Azure Active Directory. Fleetistics is interested in working with large fleet operators to integrate single sign-on using their existing platforms. We are happy to evaluate if your current technology is compatible for integration. Platforms such as WebSphere are utilized by some of the largest companies in the world and there is a good business case to develop SSO solutions. If your large or enterprise-class organization has a URM platform you want integrated contact Fleetistics to discuss the project and discounted rates for leading the effort and partnering with Fleetistics through the integration.
If you are interested in Active Directory integration, send us an email at contact@fleetistics.com or email your account manager and we’ll be in touch.
There are two primary ways to integrate GPS Tracking data to drive ongoing return on investment. The first, and most often used is analytical integration. Second, and often overlooked is visual integration. Let’s take a look at both.
Analytical Integrations
Application programming interfaces (APIs), allow you to compile data from multiple sources. An API is provided by many GPS vendors. Some vendors add additional fees for their API service and others do not. Likewise, some providers place limits on what data you may access and how frequently you can make requests. In contrast, others make all collected data available and allow more frequent API calls.
Using the API you can integrate data from your GPS tracking system with data from other applications you use. Combining data and directing it into custom reports brings the information you need to the surface. Additionally, you can format and display the data the way you want to see it. We have one client that developed a custom interface to view his tracking data using the API. He does not use the user interface provided with his system at all.
Another great example of analytical integration is the Device Status Table in MyFleetistics. It is integrated with our internal support ticketing. This allows our clients to quickly identify vehicles that have not reported. Additional data indicates if the device is powered. It only takes one click to open a support ticket, and it is all viewed on a single screen.
The Value Proposition
The API allows you to use the data collected by your tracking system in other applications. Location, speed, and duration details add additional value when combined with data from other sources. Some common examples are listed below.
Planned vs actual routes
Identifying customers that have not been visited recently
Isolate stops that were too short or too long based on an associated work order
Understanding on-time vs early or late stops to improve customer service.
Engine status data and faults directed to your vehicle maintenance software ensures all faults are reported. Unsafe driving events reported directly to the applications used by your Safety and HR Departments saves time over entering events manually. More importantly, it ensures safety records are complete and up to date.
You can also use the API to automate tasks. For instance, when a new customer or vendor order is entered, a custom developed application can automate the dispatch by sending a text message through the integrated application. Other examples are syncing customer locations with the closest vehicle when dispatching and assigning training to a driver that has too many unsafe driving events.
Visual Integrations
Visual integrations allow us to consume more information faster. A quick look at a “heat map” of customer stops speaks volumes. It will quickly reveal a territory that needs another driver assigned as well as an area that has too much staff already committed. Put that side by side with a “heat map” of profit dollars generated and you get a deeper understanding of where it is most valuable for drivers to be.
GIS overlays allow you to see infrastructure in relation to the location of your assets. For a Fire Department, the location of fire hydrants in relation to trucks on the map is very helpful information. Likewise, for an oil well service company, well locations on the tracking map allow dispatch to easily see available assets relative to service locations.
Visual Integration Improved Using a Shapefile Import Tool
For Geotab users, the GIS Shapefile Import Tool allows you to import zones from GIS shapefiles. This creates a zone with the exact perimeter you see in a GIS map overlay. As a functioning zone in Geotab, you can create exception rules for events related to the zone. Examples are entering, exiting, driving too fast inside the zone, stopping too long or not long enough in the zone, and much more.
Both analytical and visual integrations are beneficial in a variety of ways. The key is understanding what pieces of information you have that when combined reveal something more. Think about all of the times you have asked a question and your manager or supervisor responds “I don’t know.” You may want to start keeping a list of those questions because if you are asking, there must be some value in knowing. Starting with a clear question, the sources of information that can be integrated to reveal the answers are easily identified.
