What is Integration?
The definition of integration is the process of combining individual computing systems or software applications into a unified whole.
The Different Types of Integration
The different types of integration include:
- API’s: API’s provide a form of communication to push or pull data about your fleet between our servers and your back-end systems, e.g. ERP, Dispatch, CRM, Order Entry. These are usually more manual and do require someone on your end that is familiar with them. The most common API requested is a location API that send vehicle and asset location information only.
- Map Overlays: Map overlays are GIS maps or business specific mapping information that is layered into a GPS tracking platform’s mapping. This way you can view your power lines or manhole covers and your vehicles at the same time.
Example Map Overlay Displaying Utility Lines
- Data Connect: This is on the high end of integrations and is the most technical. It is a fully customized integration that involves custom programming to make your different software applications talk to each other. Many businesses don’t need this because it takes all of the GPS tracking data received and pushes it all to you. In most cases that is too much data.
- Data Dump: Data Dump takes information that is available in two systems and brings them together on a scheduled basis to provide a report or summary of the information that is most valuable to the users. An example of this would be a fuel card report. All of the fuel card data is sent to the GPS tracking provider and matched up once a day with the location data to determine if there is fuel fraud.
The Benefits of Integrating with GPS Tracking Data
Integrating GPS tracking data is beneficial for you because it provides a more complete picture into your fleet operations. By compiling data from different sources in the format you need to see it, you will have better information to make important business decisions. The best part about integration is that you may not have to log into multiple software platforms to get all the information you need; you will be able to access it all within one solution.
Choosing the Right GPS Tracking Software for a Smooth Integration Process
It is recommended that you look for a GPS tracking software provider that offers a constant and smooth integration process to ensure the data you need is always coming in. Some providers may close the connection during certain hours of the day or may not notify you if for any reason the data feed is lost.
It is also important that you look for a provider with a wide range of features beyond integration. Some providers are very good at integrating, but do not have a user friendly platform or the features you need to effectively manage your fleet.
When you need help or have questions, it is imperative that you work with a company that has unmatched service and support. Very few GPS tracking providers offer exceptional account management and 24/7/365 support. Make sure to find the few that do.
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