GPS tracking systems can greatly increase a business’s efficiency and smooth operations. GPS tracking now only allows management to be aware of their employees' movements and allows for planning and tracking routes, budgeting, and better customer service. Whilst GPS tracking is great for business owners, employees may have a different opinion of GPS tracking at work. Compared to ten or so years ago, we have become a lot more comfortable with GPS tracking in our personal lives, as it offers so much convenience to us.
Cars now come with GPS navigation installed, as do our mobile phones. However, GPS tracking in the workplace has not been embraced with the same open arms. Employees may consider this an invasion of privacy and be wary of their employer’s motives.
Introduce GPS Tracking into a business successfully
Be open
Employers must be open and honest with their employees when discussing the possibility of introducing tracking into their business. The employer must ensure employees are completely comfortable with what information is being tracked and why. This ensures everyone in the business is on the same page, and employees have a chance to ask questions and further understand the new process. When discussing the topic with employees, frame the conversation around the needs of the business. Employers are not interested in their staff's whereabouts from a personal level; data collected is strictly for business processes and efficiency.
Be fair
Employers must only monitor employees when it is justified as necessary for the business and the context. For example, it is entirely reasonable for employees to be tracked in a fleet of vehicles. In an office job, there is much less reasoning for tracking. GPS tracking does incur a level of risk, as employees can commence a legal case if they feel their privacy is being violated, so only bring tracking into your business if it is necessary.
Know the legalities
The legalities of GPS tracking must be firmly understood and complied with if it is being brought into the business. A tracking device cannot be installed on any business property without the employee's consent. It is also illegal to track employees outside of working hours, even if they drive company vehicles installed with trackers. Installing GPS trackers in a non-company vehicle could be a recipe for disaster, as it is a legal grey area. An employee could pursue legal action if they suspect they are being tracked outside of working hours, so it is best to avoid tracking devices on personal vehicles.
Create a GPS Tracking policy or contract clause
Gaining consent to use a GPS car tracker is vital to maintain full transparency within your business; A GPS tracking policy should clearly outline when employees will be tracked and how. If employees know all the facts and understand what their employer monitors, this should help smooth any discomfort. All employees should read and sign the GPS tracking policy before they begin working for the business or before it is rolled out within the company.