Does Fleet Tracking Mean Big Brother?

Fleet and vehicle tracking systems in general, have been criticised in the past for creating what is referred to as a ‘Big Brother’ environment, after the popular television program. Some critics have stated that these systems deny company employees freedom and privacy during working hours.

Employees that work in an office environment are often supervised or managed to ensure that they are working effectively and are not becoming distracted. For fleet managers this has not been the case as they have not had the visibility over their vehicles that they require to manage them most effectively, until the introduction of fleet tracking.

Many businesses can be concerned as to how their employees, especially drivers, will react to the introduction of a fleet tracking system. In fact some companies have received strong objection from employees. The fact is that if an employee is working hard, being productive and meeting their daily objectives then they shouldn’t have any objection to a tracking system as it will only serve to acknowledge their hard work.

The reason that businesses install fleet tracking systems is for the cost reductions and operational benefits that these systems provide. These systems ultimately benefit employees as well as a more profitable business normally brings opportunities for promotions, bonuses and added job security.