Reflections on the past decade are fresh in the minds of many. Easing into 2020 has left many of us pensive, and the concept of technology is one subject matter that has certainly stood out. What have we accomplished, what are we accomplishing now, and what will we accomplish in the future?
Ruminations on technological accomplishments and aspirations have been heavy, but it would be a disservice to disregard the ways in which technology hasn’t worked. As with all things great, there are successes, and then there are failures.
When it comes to the trucking industry, technology has played a huge role in shaping the past decade. With the emergence of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), the switch from paper-heavy to automated data collection, and the push for telematics to streamline processes, technology has placed itself as a star player in the day-to-day operations of drivers and back-office teams.
Where truckers and technology clash
Nearly all industries have utilized technology, and the trucking industry is no different. With tech-focused Hours of Service regulations and ELD requirements taking center stage these past few years, technology is sometimes perceived by truckers and operators to be a tool of control management in collusion with government regulations that restricts driver freedom.
With a level of frustration present, it is imperative that these solutions deliver on their promise — making drivers’ lives easier while not hindering on their income. When a driver must still keep manual notes because the software in the cab is a collection of isolated apps that don’t share basic information, the system ends up creating more paperwork — and headache — for the driver.
When everyday, on-the-road instances surface, like changes in weather patterns and alternate routing, drivers are looking for the most convenient and efficient ways to handle disruptions and get back to the tasks at hand. The last thing any driver wants to do is spend excess time sorting through antiquated systems off the road.
The benefits of modern technology
It’s worth mentioning that solutions are often competing with the all-powerful mobile device, so the ability for a solution to hold its own, or better yet integrate, is critical for lasting success.
When a driver can operate an iPhone or an Android device, then training for an intuitive solution won’t be nearly as intensive. When applications are integrated, unified, and share data, drivers can once and for all do away with the paper log process. Also, drivers can save ample direct entry time with the ability to auto-fill data in forms and reports. Best of all, drivers can optimize routing and loads to steer clear from idle time.
Learn more about how you can work to increase driver retention and ROI for your company with Omnitracs Drive.