GPS Vehicle Tracking: Active vs. Passive Reporting Systems

With a variety of GPS Vehicle Tracking solutions on the market, is an Active or Passive reporting system best for your business? Let’s compare the differences:

Passive Tracking Systems
Passive tracking systems have the ability to store GPS location, speed, and headings. If you choose to use a passive system, your employees keep the system in their vehicle for the duration of their trip and once the vehicle returns, the device is removed. Passive tracking systems store tracking data in memory on the device. In order for you to view the information, you will need to pull the device from the vehicle and connect it to your computer. From there, you can look at the data every month or so, and compile reports on your employees. These systems cater to businesses who only need to track their mileage or who don’t need immediate data about their vehicle locations.

Active or “Real-time” tracking devices
Active tracking devices require no manual interaction to send their data, i.e., you don’t have to remove the device from your cars each time you want information. These devices use a wireless network to send you real-time updates throughout the day. An active tracking device instantly tells you where the vehicle is - which can be critical for many businesses. Real time tracking devices allow you to locate your vehicles on a map and actually watch the vehicles’ movements as they occur.
Active tracking is the best choice for businesses interested in improving the efficiency of their deliveries and monitoring their employees. An active tracker may have geo-fence abilities, which will alert you when the vehicle enters or leaves a specific location. These systems can also help prevent theft and recover stolen vehicles, or alert you if your employee is not in a predetermined location.

Simply put, if you've spent time developing your business and money purchasing the cars in your fleet, it is in your best interest to ensure your employees are on track and not wasting company time and money. If knowing what your employees are doing with your vehicles at any given time is a key component in running your business, an Active Reporting System should be your tool of choice.