How GPS transforms field service management process

April 22, 2024

GPS transforms field service management process

Field service business involves many remotely managed tasks and hence, having location intelligence tools helps gain much-needed operational visibility. When you choose a field service management software vendor make sure it includes GPS tracking features and related integrations. This technology not only marks the location of service technicians but also brings many benefits to the table.

In this article, we will explore the top advantages of implementing GPS tracking in field service management software.

How does GPS tracking in field service management software help

Field service management is a specialized software that helps streamline and automate many operational tasks across sales, marketing, invoicing, inventory, customer service, and more. A key feature to optimize many tasks across these is to have GPS tracking software integrated with your FSM solutions.

Here are some features you can look for:

 

  • Geo-tagging: Can add location tags or timestamps to media shared by workers to better understand the job site or work in progress.
  • Offline access: Allows field service technicians to capture location data even in areas with poor or no network connectivity, syncing the data when a connection is restored. This ensures data accuracy and completeness, especially in remote or offline locations.
  • Determine ETA: GPS makes it possible to determine the estimated arrival time (ETA) which you can share with the customers to update the worker’s location on the route in real-time.
  • Route optimization: GPS data can optimize the routes taken by field service technicians based on factors like traffic, job priority, and location. This reduces travel time and fuel costs while enhancing overall operational efficiency.
  • Location-based analytics: Utilizes GPS data to generate analytics and reports related to field service operations, travel patterns, and job completion times. This enables data-driven decision-making, helping businesses identify areas for improvement.

6 benefits of having GPS tracking as a part of your FSM technology stack

GPS can truly be a game-changer for a field service business such that you can remotely execute your project. Here are six key ways in which FSM software makes remote operations work for your field service business:

Remote visibility on field operations

GPS tracking allows businesses to monitor the real-time location of field service technicians. This visibility enables better scheduling, dispatching, and optimization of routes, leading to reduced travel time. It also improves response times for any emergencies and reduces the cost of assigning manpower-based supervision.

Fewer errors in field service scheduling

By understanding the exact location of field service technicians, businesses can optimize the scheduling and dispatching process. It will understand the job’s requirements to assign the right technician with the necessary skills, past performance, proximity to job location, and availability. It will automatically handle rescheduling requests, job updates, and any other changes in the dispacing process.

Based on the final schedule, FSM software will choose the most efficient route, thus reducing delays and increasing overall operational efficiency.

Theft prevention and asset security

GPS tracking acts as a deterrent to theft and enhances the security of valuable assets. It will track the real-time location of service vehicles, field service workers, and equipment to ensure safety. In case of theft, the real-time tracking feature allows for prompt action, increasing the chances of recovery.

Compliance and worker accountability

For businesses operating in industries with regulatory requirements, GPS tracking provides a transparent record of technician movements and job durations. It helps determine productive time spent, including calculating overtime durations for fair compensations. This enhances accountability and helps businesses adhere to industry standards and compliance regulations.

Use location intelligence to optimize workflows

The data collected through GPS tracking offers valuable insights into the performance of field service operations. Businesses can analyze this data to make informed routing decisions, optimize workflows to align with location data, and identify areas for improvement. 

Customer engagement and support

Accurate and reliable information made possible by GPS tracking enhances the overall customer experience. From notifying customers about technician arrivals to efficiently handling emergency service requests, businesses can improve customer satisfaction and recognition by providing transparent and timely information.

Experience the benefits of GPS-enabled FSM software for your field service business

Zuper provides advanced features like geo-fencing, geo-tagging, data analysis, and AI-supported optimization to improve your field service deliverability. Book a demo today and check out how our location intelligence solutions can increase operational efficiency.

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