Family-Owned Small Business Essannay Credits VehiclePath With Recovering Stolen Truck

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Chicago-based small business Essannay generated an immediate return on its VehiclePath GPS Monitoring and Tracking investment when the company used the system to recover a stolen truck. A family-owned and operated audio/visual rental company, Essannay operates a 2002 Ford Heavy Duty Van to transport equipment to and from its customers’ meeting sites and locations.

“Our fleet consists of one truck that is vital to our business,” says Essannay President Christopher Chambers. “The VehiclePath system we installed on our truck paid for itself the moment the stolen vehicle was located and recovered, before any damage was done to it.”

Chambers installed VehiclePath on the Essannay truck one year ago to promote route compliance among his drivers. “I kept getting gas receipts from places where the truck wasn’t supposed to be,” recalls Chambers. “I wanted to keep better track of where my drivers were going, as well as how they were driving.” VehiclePath provided the solution to his challenges.

A powerful, flexible and highly scalable GPS Vehicle Tracking and Monitoring system developed by Spireon, Inc., which emerged in 2011 as the industry-leading Mobile Resource Management (MRM) company developing Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) based tools, VehiclePath provides continuous real-time visibility for local fleets. For a small business like Essannay, VehiclePath offers a cost-effective way to improve driver productivity, increase driver safety, ensure route compliance, and enhance on-time delivery as well as customer satisfaction.

“VehiclePath allows me to set up a Geofence, a geographical boundary that extends beyond our normal service area,” Chambers explains. “The instant one of my drivers takes the truck outside this Geofence, I get an instant alert on my cell phone and via e-mail. So I can call my driver to find out why they’ve veered off the route. I can keep track of my drivers anytime, even when I’m not in the office.”

Chambers says that VehiclePath has been a useful tool in reducing unwanted driver behavior, including excessive idling and speeding. But he most values having instant access to real-time intelligence. “VehiclePath tells me exactly what I need to know. Now I can see where my truck is every day, at any given moment. I can see when the truck arrived at a customer location, what time the equipment was delivered, what time the truck left, and if the driver had to go back for some reason. Before VehiclePath, I had to call the customer for this information, which wasn’t the best for customer service.”

VehiclePath has also allowed Essannay to control costs related to fuel consumption and maintenance. “The system sends me alerts when it’s time for a tune up or oil change, or when the battery’s gone bad, so I can take care of it in a timely fashion,” says Chambers. “And I expect to see a reduction in my auto insurance as well.”

But perhaps the biggest return on his VehiclePath investment came from a surprising use of the system. “When our truck got stolen from our back lot, it took me a few minutes to realize that I could use VehiclePath to find out where it was,” Chambers recalls. “Sure enough, we pinpointed its exact location and sent someone down to keep a set of eyes on it until the police could arrive. Within four hours of noticing it was gone, we had our truck back, fully operational.”

Adds Chambers, “I would have loved to see the expression on the thief’s face when he realized that the truck he’d stolen had been stolen back.”

Chambers says that by recovering the company truck, VehiclePath instantly paid for itself, “and for years to come.” He adds, “I didn’t have to waste time to file any reports, or buy a new truck. All I had to do was click my mouse, and there was my van. If I had more cars, I’d get one for every vehicle. I’d tell anyone to install VehiclePath, install lots of them. It’s well worth it.”

To learn more about Essannay, visit www.essannay.com or call Christopher Chambers at (312) 773-5511. To learn more about VehiclePath by Spireon, Inc., visit www.VehiclePath.com or call 1-877-299-6544.

Contact:
Amelia DiMesio
949-246-3265
ameliad@procongps.com

VehiclePath is dedicated to connecting companies with local fleets to their mobile assets and workforce through game-changing information platforms, giving them the power to manage actionable business intelligence. Inspiring companies with local fleets to reach new heights with its powerful Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) based tools, VehiclePath is one of the most cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions on the market, enabling rapid deployment and optimization of local fleets.

About Spireon

Spireon, Inc., is at the summit of business intelligence and committed to going higher. Headquartered in Knoxville, TN, the company emerged in 2011 as the industry leading Mobile Resource Management (MRM) company as a result of the merger of ProconGPS, Inc. with Enfotrace and PFS, LLC , the top three providers in the MRM space. Spireon connects companies to their mobile assets and workforce through game changing information platforms, giving them the power to manage actionable business intelligence. Inspiring companies to reach new heights with powerful Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) based tools, Spireon provides a sturdy foundation on which to optimize performance.

With leading market positions in the Subprime Automotive Finance industry, Local & Enterprise Fleet Management and Trailer & Logistics markets, Spireon, Inc. specializes in developing strong business relationships with leading companies worldwide, enabling it to offer affordable world-class risk mitigation, mobile asset management and location-based services to its customers. Spireon, Inc.’s patented array of GPS products and information platforms provide business intelligence solutions through industry brands for automotive dealers, lenders, service and delivery fleets and transportation and logistics companies. Spireon currently has over 1.2 million active devices in the marketplace and forecasts to deliver 800,000 units in 2012. With offices in North America, Spireon has a proven track record in innovation, customer-focused service, financial stability, powerful vertical distribution networks, and a strong customer base.

For additional information, please visit Spireon, Inc.’s website http://www.spireon.com.

Corporate Identity Shift- Brian Boling, CEO

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What’s in a name? If done properly, everything! ProconGPS was born in an era when GPS was something only found in the oceans of the world as part of maritime navigation and safety equipment. In 2001 the founders of the company introduced the first commercialized integrated analogue cell phone / GPS functionality in the USA designed for landlubbers, A Protect and Connect™tag line used for that product finally grew into a descriptive name used to define the device and its security focus: ProconGPS, Inc.

Fast forward about a decade and we find that while the cellular + GPS combination has thrived in this new digital age, the name of the game is no longer simply providing a working combination device. Data can now be gathered from a multitude of sensors in the mobile world. That data can be analyzed on the device or pushed to a server environment where it is sliced and diced and evaluated such that the information forthcoming can be valuable and critical to customers that are trying to improve mobile workforce and asset management. Today our mission is to connect companies to their mobile assets & workforce through game changing information platforms; putting the power in their hands to manage actionable business intelligence. So we needed a proper name - one that covers this territory without suggesting a device bias.

After months of deliberation with our partners & shareholders, along with extensive research done by our marketing team, we are ready to announce that name to the world. Our passion is to climb to the summit of mobile business intelligence. So we wanted a name that would work off of a root word like “spire”. Our goal is to remain tightly focused on customer needs. So we desired a name that was based on a word like “spear”. We wanted to sustain our rapid growth and leadership therefore a suggestive word like forever or “eon” would be a nice add. Drum roll please… Spireon will be the new corporate name. Pronounced (“Spear” and “eon”) we believe the name captures our passion to excel and stay focused. And with the tagline, Guiding Business Intelligence, the name plainly states our purpose in the world.

Today, Thursday March 22nd, is the day we announce our new corporate identity - Spireon Inc, and coined the tagline: Guiding Business Intelligence. Along with the name change, ProconGPS has adopted a new logo. All of these changes are effective immediately, and all future business activity will be undertaken with the new name, logo and ultimately our new identity. We’ve created a new corporate website www.spireon.com, which includes information and links to all our brands in each of our segments: Dealer Services, Fleet Services and Lender Services.

VehiclePath Convenes First Customer Advisory Board To Shed Industry Insight

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Knoxville, TN, March 12, 2012 — VehiclePath, developer of affordable, real-time fleet and asset GPS tracking solutions used by local fleets across North America, announces the formation of a new Customer Advisory Board (CAB). The Board’s inaugural meeting will take place March 21st through the 23rd at the ProconGPS Tech Center in Irvine, CA.

Composed of leading resellers and distributors who provide VehiclePath devices to customers to track, monitor and maximize their fleets, equipment and other assets, the CAB is a continuation of our commitment to meet the local fleet market’s evolving needs and challenges while remaining on the forefront of industry developments.

“The CAB represents a dynamic collaboration between our top executives at VehiclePath, and our reseller and distributor partners,” says Gary Schneider, Vice President and General Manager of VehiclePath. “The first-hand insight shared by CAB members will allow us to continue innovating and enhancing our solutions to better anticipate the needs of customers and strategically direct resources for the growth of our company and our partners.”

CAB members will convene regularly with the purpose of:

  • Providing objective, continuous feedback and perspective on core business, industry and technology issues.
  • Identifying and addressing common business and product challenges.
  • Providing insight into changing industry and fleet management trends.
  • Informing VehiclePath’s strategic and operational decisions, including the launch of products and services.
  • Strengthening business relationships and collaborations.
  • Supporting the continued growth of VehiclePath, its partners and customers.

 

Participating members of the CAB bring decades of experience in fleet management and operations to the communal table. Current CAB members are:

  • Dan Ashman, CEO, AC Global
  • Andrew Chermark, President, Smart Fleet
  • Eric Counts, President, GPS Fleet Management Solutions
  • Travis Hillman, President, Pro-Traq
  • Kelly Jensen, General Manager, Shaffer Communications
  • James Krane, President, Advanced Fleet GPS
  • Dick Krasne, President, Alamo Industries
  • Victor Krstec, CEO, Affordable GPS Tracking
  • Terry Ottinger, President, United Security Alliance
  • Joe Wolfinger, Director of Development, Quarles Petroleum
  • Malcolm Rosenfeld, President, GPS Technologies
  • Skip Chandler, President, SC Communications

 

“We are looking forward to kicking off the CAB’s first meeting, and anticipate walking away from the discussion with greater actionable insight into the future of our industry and our company,” says Schneider. “The CAB group represents a truly unique collaboration of professionals who share a common vision: enhancing business performance by enhancing the way companies track, manage and maximize their fleets and assets.”

About VehiclePath

VehiclePath is dedicated to providing one of the most effective and easy-to-use GPS fleet and asset tracking services for local fleets. The GPS-based tracking technology developed by VehiclePath is one of the most cost-effective and easy-to-use solutions, enabling rapid deployment of vehicle tracking capabilities for customers’ fleets. Located in Irvine, Calif., VehiclePath has been in the vehicle tracking business since 2003 and proudly develops and manufactures vehicle tracking units in Southern California, mostly within its own facilities. Learn more at VehiclePath.com.

About ProconGPS, Inc.

ProconGPS, Inc., headquartered in Knoxville, TN, is a leading service provider of MRM products and services designed to help businesses better locate and control their assets worldwide. ProconGPS, Inc. has expertise in integrating products, content, communication networks, map databases, and service technologies to deliver business intelligence. With leading market positions in the Subprime Automotive Finance industry, Local Fleet, Trailer Tracking Management and Enterprise Fleet markets, ProconGPS, Inc. specializes in developing strong business relationships with leading companies worldwide, enabling it to offer world-class risk mitigation and location based services to its customers. ProconGPS, Inc.’s patented array of GPS products, call center
Center systems, commercial tracking platforms, web tracking platforms, telephony solutions and customer service systems offer a fully integrated solution to its partners. For additional information, please visit ProconGPS, Inc.’s website at www.procongps.com.

 

Contact:
Amelia DiMesio
949-246-3265
ameliad@procongps.com

The Truckers guide for Winter driving

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It is no secret that roadway accidents increase at a chilling pace during the winter months. Often times drivers fail to take into consideration the hazardous conditions created by winter weather and exactly what to do about it. The Vehiclepath team cares about your fleet and your people, so we’ve compiled a list of tips and techniques to get you through these slippery months.
Safe winter driving demands knowledge of defensive driving skills and adjustments. The winter scene will be less hazardous for everyone one the road if a few precautions are made. Read on and share with your fleet!
Critical move-Prepare early for Winter. Now is the time!
The first step to preventing unnecessary accidents is to make sure equipment is ready for that first unexpected freeze or storm.
Be sure to check these essential items:

1. Radiators require proper winter coolant. Also, make sure there are no leaks.
2. Tires need to have good tread depth. Balding tires reduce starting traction by 30 - 50%.
3. Wiper blades must be in good condition to sweep snow and sleet off the windshield. If new blades are installed, check the arm pressure to ensure effective operation.
4. Heater and defroster, when functioning at their full capacity, will keep your windshield clear and you and your passengers warm.
5. Lights are particularly important in winter weather to ensure that you are clearly visible to other drivers. Be sure both headlights work on upper and lower beams, and are correctly adjusted. Check that stop, tail, clearance lights and directional signals work properly and are clean.
6. Brakes need to be in top condition to provide uniform braking.
7. Muffler and exhaust system should be in good condition and tightly fitted so carbon monoxide does not seep into the interior of the vehicle where it could cause serious illness or death to the driver or occupants.
8. Battery – cold weather lowers battery power – make sure yours is in good condition, and in case it is necessary, know the proper procedure for using a booster battery.
9. Fifth Wheel Lubrication – for tractor-trailer combinations, make sure a winter grade of lubricant is used on the fifth wheel. Some heavy summer grades of lubricant at low temperatures become too heavy and interfere with steering on slippery surfaces.
10. Windows and mirrors – windows should be cleaned to ensure good visibility. Mirrors also should be kept adjusted and clean for good visibility to the rear.

It’s important to remember that if you’re driving on ice, you won’t know it until you need to stop-making brakes are the great equalizer.

Driving tips:

Tip #1 Ice on your windshield means ice on the road.
The ice doesn’t have to be packed up on the roadway to be dangerous- a thin sheet of ice can develop quickly into a thick problem.
Tip # 2 Keep an eye on the temperature.
Water freezes at 32 degrees. The roadways tend to be slightly warmer than the air temp, but once you’re down that low in temperature, you need to be wary.
Tip # 3 Watch for spray off tires
If spray is coming off the tires, it’s likely that the roads are wet (as opposed to ice covered), but keep in mind that a short stretch of road with ice on it can be just as dangerous as a ice-packed roadway.
Tip # 4 ASK!
Make sure your CB radio is on and talk to the drivers around you. If you are a new driver, try to find a seasoned driver. You want to communicate with an experienced driver who has a healthy respect for physics to help talk you through it.
Tip # 5 Keep a healthy distance.
Traffic tends to bunch up on bad roads–the natural inclination is to follow other drivers. Stay away from four-wheelers. Often they are under the illusion that the roads are safer than they actually are.
Tip # 6 The ditch is a good clue
If there are four-wheelers spun out in the median or shoulder, the roads are bad. If you start seeing big trucks spun out, it’s time to get off the roadway. If numerous cars are in the ditch-time to find a rest area!
Tip # 7 There’s no load worth your life.
If you are on dangerous roadways, your best bet is to find a safe spot to wait it out. Let your logbook gain some hours. If you can’t find a spot in a truck stop, park on a ramp or anywhere out of the way. Try not to park on an incline. You’re liable to get yourself stuck. There is no load too precious to not be safe…especially the cargo in the driver’s seat.
Tip # 8 Carry supplies.
In the unfortunate event that you end up stuck, spun out, wrecked, or just sitting in a backup, be sure you have necessities with you. Keep extra blankets, canned food (and a can opener!), and water. Be sure you keep your diesel tanks full so you don’t run low.
Tip # 9 Treat your diesel.
Diesel gels when it gets really cold. If your diesel gels, your truck won’t run. If you are facing winter weather conditions, you need to put an anti-gel additive in your tanks (put it in BEFORE you fuel so it mixes). It’s a good idea to stock up ahead of time rather than expecting the truck stop to have it in stock. They tend to run out right when you need it!
One last technique that is great to know-The Feathering Technique

Apply the brakes gradually until you feel the wheels begin to lock and then release them slightly. If you start to lose steering control, release the brakes immediately, gear down, and repeat the gradual application. This technique requires more feel than pumping.
Use discretion in gearing down. Too much gearing down on ice may cause drive wheels to slide and start a dangerous side skid or jackknife. Release the clutch immediately and let the wheels roll to correct this condition.
Remember, when stopping on slippery surfaces, keep all wheels rolling to maintain steering ability, while at the same time using brakes to get the maximum stopping effort without wheel lock-up.

Wintertime or anytime, it is your responsibility to be alert and cautious while driving.
Be safe this winter season!

Managing Your Fleet & Your People

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Often overlooked, though a critical component to fleet management- People Management. The reality is that the majority of a fleet manager’s time often is spent dealing with personnel and interdepartmental issues. How you deal with these issues influences shop morale, user department relationships, and management’s opinion of your effectiveness as fleet manager.
Successful “people management” equates to successful fleet management. This translates into increased and improved operational efficiencies and improved customer service.
Below are six characteristics of said people management, employed by and common among the best of fleet managers around the nation:
1. Become a Role Model: Successful people management means you yourself, serve as an example of excellence. “Do as I Do”-By maintaining a high standard of personal performance, you encourage a similar high standard from all associates. An effective fleet manager ensures all employees perform to the best of their abilities and are given opportunities to improve their skill sets, and can do the job right the first time. In addition, a role model also means standing behind promises and following through on commitments to staff, user departments, and management.
2. Fairness. One way to exemplify fairness to your workforce is to ensure all rules are applied equally. It is important to be impartial when enforcing fleet policy and company rules. ‘Not Just a Critic”-Fairness also means acknowledging when someone does a good job. Never take credit for other people’s work, but also by providing constructive criticism when needed. Maintaining a “feel good” environment is sometimes counter-productive. Strive to develop a management style that is fair, firm, and consistent.
3. Encourage Self-Growth. Develop programs that incentivize associates to advance their skill sets by striving for excellence and taking advantage of training opportunities. Let your associates know you are receptive to new ideas to improve fleet operations. Encourage creativity and innovation!
4. Problem Resolution. When issues emerge with your fleet operation, your focus should be finding solutions, not assigning blame. If it is necessary to criticize, do so in private. The best way to resolve problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. You may think everyone understands the goals of the department; however, it is important not to take this for granted. It is crucial to continually re-communicate the goals of the department. These goals need to be well defined and clearly stated.
5. Cultivate Customer Service. A best-in-class fleet operation has excellent interdepartmental relationships. It is important to remember that without user departments there would be no need for fleet operations. “Word of Mouth”-the cheapest advertising for your company you’ll ever find! An effective fleet manager listens to user departments. It is important to regularly survey customers to determine their needs, wants, and expectations of fleet operations. If you are not meeting these needs and expectations, then you’ve failed as a fleet operation. It is important for fleet operations to be cost-efficient and to temper unwarranted user department demands, but an unhappy customer represents a deficiency in your department’s performance.
Remember—-People management is harder than fleet management!