GPS Systems

Comroad AG Digital Recorders, Inc. Garmin Ltd.

Magellan PocketMap Sokkia Company, Limited

TomTom

Guide to GPS Systems

GPS systems provide a number of applications and solutions for businesses
By Jenni Simcoe

Global Positioning System (GPS): This constellation of 24 satellites orbiting the earth is used as a navigation system that allows users to pinpoint their exact location using special receivers. Originally designed for military use, GPS navigation systems now have a wide range of applications. They are perhaps best known as a common option for new automobiles, but GPS devices and technology can also be used for a variety of commercial applications.

GPS software, for instance, can be used to expedite logistics or ease business travel. And the handy GPS devices also improve accuracy, security and productivity depending on the type of business you run.

Some of the many commercial uses for GPS systems include:

1. Manage a fleet. By equipping your fleet vehicles with GPS tracking equipment, you can track vehicles, assess logistics and pinpoint solutions for improvement.
2. Improve accuracy. Construction and surveying are exacting sciences that benefit from GPS devices, which decrease errors.
3. Increase productivity. Farmers benefit from GPS farming systems that allow them to track field operations, map field conditions and analyze data for planting and irrigation.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare GPS navigation systems before you buy Not all GPS devices are the same. Consider power, signal strength, visual displays, features and cost when shopping for a GPS system.

I recommend:  Check out the variety of GPS equipment from major manufacturers, including Garmin, Magellan, Leica and Trimble.

GPS devices can be used in automobiles, boats and airplanes If your vehicle, boat or airplane doesn't come automatically equipped with a GPS system, you can invest in portable GPS systems that work from any vehicle.

I recommend:  MyPilotStore.com has a variety of portable GPS navigation systems and GPS trackers that send out a signal of your location in the case of an emergency. SkyGeek.com sells aviation GPS systems, handheld units and portable systems. The GPS Store provides GPS navigation systems for installation in automobiles and come with features, such as speech navigation, mapping and real-time traffic monitors.

Commercial GPS systems can be used for surveying, construction and agriculture Farming has gone high-tech, along with other vocations that have jumped on the GPS bandwagon. Contractors and land surveyors also benefit from using customized commercial GPS systems.

I recommend:  Improved Construction Methods sells a variety of GPS equipment for surveying purposes. GPS systems for farming by Hemisphere GPS or AutoFarm provide precise guidance for field operations or collection of map data on tillage, applications, planting, weeds, insect and disease infestations, cultivation and irrigation.

GPS tracking software can be used to monitor and protect fleet vehicles GPS tracking allows you to audit your drivers and gives you a better chance of recovering stolen fleet vehicles.

I recommend:  BrickHouseSecurity.com offers GPS fleet management systems and software to track the movements of company vehicles. GPS Fleet Solutions provides small to mid-sized fleets with tools for tracking vehicles, trailers or heavy equipment. Check out their online real-time calculator and historical calculator to see how much you can save by investing in a GPS system.

Online GPS tracking is a viable option for small businesses Rather than investing and maintaining GPS software and tracking systems, you can opt to track your fleet with online tools. Some providers of GPS fleet management systems offer monthly billing and online tracking.

I recommend:  Discrete Wireless offers online GPS tracking with monthly billing plans. ExtremTrac Technology is a web-based fleet GPS tracking and management solution that offers remote monitoring, route analysis, distance calculations and real-time map refreshing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Using GPS fleet management systems, fleet managers can find ways to consolidate routes to cut fuel costs.
• For salespeople, GPS devices can minimize driving time. GPS navigation systems prevent you from getting lost, and may come equipped with features that guide you around traffic tie-ups and road construction delays.
• Fleet managers may be able to track local vehicles by equipping them nothing more than GPS trackers or beacons in the vehicles.