A Fleet Management Information System (FMIS) is designed to streamline and optimize the management of fleet vehicles by automating tasks, improving data accuracy, and offering valuable insights into fleet performance. All this potential from implementing an FMIS sounds great to managers, but it may not receive the same response from technicians.
Effective communication is crucial when introducing a new FMIS to technicians to ensure smooth adoption and minimize resistance. Technicians need to understand the benefits of the new FMIS and how it will impact their daily operations.
We encourage managers to use this blog as a guide to gain buy-in from their technicians, and ultimately maximize the benefits of their new FMIS for all users.
Prepare Ahead of Time
Before meeting with technicians, make sure you understand the FMIS’s features and benefits. Knowing this will allow you to address any questions or concerns technicians may have.
Here are some of the notable benefits of AssetWorks’ FMIS:
- Improved Efficiency
Technicians can easily access vehicle histories, and efficiently prioritize repairs, reducing downtime and improving productivity with AssetWorks FMIS. - Enhanced Communication
AssetWorks FMIS facilitates seamless communication so technicians can receive real-time updates on job assignments, parts availability, and service requests. - Access to Real-Time Data
Our FMIS provides technicians with instant access to vehicle diagnostics and performance metrics, enabling quicker diagnosis and resolution of issues. - Mobile Accessibility
AssetWorks FMIS offers mobile apps so technicians can easily access information and update job statuses- improving their workflow.
Make sure to also gather your technicians’ current pain points and how the FMIS can help address these issues. Being well prepared can ensure the discussion is not only productive, but it can help make for a smoother implementation process.
Schedule a Meeting with Technicians
When it is time to schedule your meeting to discuss the new FMIS with your technicians, ensure that key stakeholders, particularly the technicians who will be directly affected by the new FMIS, are invited. Including these people, you ensure their input and feedback are valued to create a sense of ownership and engagement in the new FMIS implementation process.
Clearly Communicate the FMIS’s Benefits
Explain to technicians the purpose of implementing the new FMIS, including the benefits you outlined in your meeting preparation. Along with the benefits, discuss any potential challenges the team might face during the implementation process, and your strategies to address these potential issues. This approach builds trust, ensures everyone is well-informed, and fosters a collaborative environment- all important when switching to a new FMIS.
Involve Technicians in Implementation Progress
Encourage technicians to participate in pilot testing to get feedback on the new FMIS, to ensure it meets their practical needs and preferences. To get feedback, create surveys, regular meetings, and suggestion boxes, so technicians can share their experiences and suggestions. Following this collaborative approach helps tailor the FMIS to actual operational needs and creates an engaged shop floor.
Provide Ongoing Training and Support
Offer comprehensive training sessions to ensure technicians are proficient in using the FMIS, covering all necessary aspects to maximize its effectiveness. AssetWorks does this step for fleet managers by offering various support and training opportunities:
- 24/7 customer support for customers in North America
- A four-day training event where attendees receive extensive training and learn new skills to improve their efficiency and productivity.
- Three full days of group regional training where everyone can get hands-on training from an AssetWorks expert.
- Live webinars online on a wide range of topics being discussed across the industry.
Aside from what your FMIS vendor offers, managers should continue being a resource to technicians during the adjustment period.
