Since the publication of the ELD mandate, fleets across the country have been transitioning to electronic logs. In the rush to install and implement electronic logging, some fleets have found themselves overwhelmed and unable to adapt. This often results in productivity loss. While the transition process can be tricky, it doesn’t have to jeopardize your operations. If your fleet still needs to convert to electronic logs, consider using the following tips for navigating the transition.
Baby Steps
Oftentimes, people are resistant to change simply because too much of it happens all at once. If you have any worries about transitioning your employees to ELDs, try introducing the new technology to them bit by bit. Focus on one feature at a time during the training phase, making sure all employees are familiar with it before moving on to other lessons. This helps to eliminate the shock of introducing an entirely new system while keeping training at a relaxed, accessible pace.
Emphasize Driver Benefits of Electronic Logging
You may experience some skepticism from employees–especially drivers–upon introducing electronic logs, especially if you fail to mention the benefits that electronic logging offers drivers. It’s important to address your employees’ concerns, but don’t let these concerns decide how your workers view ELDs. Instead, focus on the benefits, like data-based proof of work accomplished and ease of compliance, that your drivers can expect to reap from electronic logging.
Investigate Before Investing
ELD providers are not all created equal. This is why it’s important to thoroughly investigate every ELD product you consider. Make sure your prospective provider not only offers actionable solutions for your specific needs, but is on the forefront of relevant technology and can adapt to changing standards and regulations. The latter is an important quality in any provider, as it is indicative of their ability to help your company stay compliant.
Don’t Procrastinate
Switching to electronic logs can be both labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially for large fleets. The conversion process involves finding an ELD provider that meets your needs, installing said system, and making sure employees are properly trained in the use of that system. Obviously, this process cannot be completed in one or two business days. As such, it is important that you plan for the many disruptions associated with training and installation ahead of time. If you wait too long and try to convert just before the effective date, you risk plunging your fleet into the chaos of a rushed implementation.
The process of switching your fleet over to e-logs can seem intimidating at first, but with a tactful introduction strategy, you can make the transition as smooth as possible. If you have any questions about the switch, speak with an expert Fleet Advisor today. Let us know how we can make the ELD mandate work for your fleet!
