As telematics devices deliver more data on more events, users can be in danger of data overload. It’s like having a big garage at home — it’s great to have unless you can’t find the tools you’re looking for. Fortunately, these tips on dealing with data overload can help you get the most out of your fleet telematics system.

1. Goal setting. When starting a telematics system, pick one or two goals to start off with — it’s difficult to take it all in at once when you’re first learning a system.

2. Start small. In ongoing use of a telematics system, focus on one problem or goal at a time, and then take on the next.

3. Tailored solutions. Work with your telematics provider to develop easy-to-use dashboards tailored to your goals.

4. Automate. Get specific and custom alerts automated.
   

5. Schedule. Schedule important summary reports to pull automatically.

6. Communications. Have alerts and reports emailed to or sent to your preferred communications method so they can be viewed without logging into the software.

7. Re-think. If you find yourself regularly digging to get a particular report, re-think what reports you’re getting automatically. You may find that these will change over time and as your goals evolve.

8. Time management. Give yourself a set time or amount of time when going through data so you don’t get pulled away from your current goals. 

9. Take action. Don’t forget to make actions from the data. If a driver is regularly speeding, for example, address it immediately. Be sure you have a plan for how to address these problems and be consistent.

10. Take a breather. If you become victim to data overload, take a step back — getting overwhelmed and doing nothing with data is worse than simplifying and making good use of it.

This article originally appeared in the 2014 Connected Fleet Guide supplement. View the full digital edition here.