Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1515056
I DA U N I V E R S A L J a n u a r y - Fe b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 31 party telematics solution may be easier to manage but with fewer data points and equipment insights. Trade-offs will always come with this decision because there is no one-size-fi ts-all answer. The right telematics solution will be the one that meets each business's unique needs and goals. 3. Connected Jobsites When considering how telematics can or will be used on jobsites, the decision isn't all about weighing the pros and cons of a program's specifi c benefi ts. It's also about the logistics of working on a connected job site. A couple of questions users need to ask are: • Is there connectivity infra- structure available onsite, such as cellular or WiFi service? • If infrastructure is available, can work crews have connected devices on sites to access tele- matics information? 3 Benefi ts Because telematics allow users to streamline access to important machine information quickly and effectively through digital channels, three benefi ts exist and are detailed below. 1. Increased Machine Uptime Telematics show fl eet managers where and how equipment is operating by providing high-level or fi nite details on several machine systems, including: • Location to help with service plan- ning and to decrease downtime for fi eld techs • Diagnostic trouble or fault codes to address machine issues and get them back to work quicker • Machine hours to help with billing and knowing when to service the machine • Battery status • Machine use • Setting geofences/time fences to protect the equipment investment and to be notifi ed on machine use (leav- ing a particular area or being used before/after a designated time) • Schedule maintenance tasks Access to this type of informa- tion allows users to manage machine usage more effi ciently and effectively. 2. Enhanced Productivity & Machine Performance Many telematics solutions also have tools to analyze fl eet and operator data and determine the overall effectiveness of a machine in a particular situation. Sharing usage and operator data can signifi cantly improve onsite effi ciencies. By using telematics in conjunction with other digital tools, such as building informa- tion models, contractors can stream- line the planning phase of projects to select the right machine for the job. 3. Decreased Downtime Telematics can also help manage the servicing and maintenance of machines. For example, analyzers to remotely diagnose machine issues and coordinate the tools and parts needed for onsite repairs. Telematics solutions can also provide users with the opportunity to receive automated reports and immediate notifi cations when issues arise. In addition, fl eet managers can use telematics programs to proactively schedule maintenance, reducing unnecessary service calls and equip- ment failure. Telematics can also help equip- ment owners and users plan for site visits and rental services, such as equipment deliveries. Telematics Is Changing Jobsites As connected construc- tion sites continue to evolve, telematics provide a foundation and infra- structure for other techno- logical advancements in safety and productivity. For example, telematics historically offered more data points from machines with combustion engines. However, today, they provide information on electric equip- ment. During the next decade, telematics will continue to evolve to include even more machine information on electri- fi ed products, more fi nite details from the equipment's integrated sensors, live/real-time video feed footage, in-the-moment servicing of machines, additional semi-autonomous function- ality and much more. Yesterday's telematics could only do so much. The next generation is an Internet of Things platform, offering true, two-way fl eet connec- tivity and machine interactivity. ● www.forconstructionpros.com 12/23 When setting up telematics, ensure that connectivity infrastructure is avail- able onsite. If it is, can work crews have connected devices on sites to access telematics information?

