How is GPS Technology Impacting Today’s Businesses

While consumer applications of GPS technology usually dominate the headlines, it’s the business applications that have transformed the ability of organizations to compete, whether they are small businesses or multinational corporations.

Once, you may have paid several hundred dollars for a single GPS unit to provide directions and traffic reports. Today, emboldened by decreasing costs and increasing power, GPS comes with everything from smartphones to route plan systems.

In fact, GPS has become so ubiquitous in business software, it sometimes goes unnoticed. From advanced shipping and delivery routing to just-in-time inventory systems, GPS is now often more of a component of business software than a separate application. Route planner GPS systems are also a staple of the latest tech developments.

Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings

Most businesses recognize the intrinsic efficiency that comes with GPS technology and route planner optimizers. Planned routes, easy changes, and detailed directions save time and fuel.

UPS famously saved 10 million gallons of gas from 2004-2014 simply by optimizing their delivery routes so drivers didn’t have to turn left as often. That small change reduced vehicle idling time, and the routes were more efficient. That’s a lot of money saved, not to mention the decreased vehicle emissions.

But other benefits may be harder to quantify. Tracking vehicles, shipments and personnel with GPS technology has increased accountability as well as provided control from a central area. Also what once may have taken hours of pouring over maps and building routes now takes minutes. That frees up personnel to work on more important tasks.

New Business Opportunities

But it’s not just current business models that have improved. New businesses based on GPS technology are popping up all over.

Retailers use services that offer coupons and deals to shoppers right when they are in their store. Smartphone apps can make recommendations based on the businesses it knows are around you. These are just a few examples of the ways new businesses are using GPS technology in a creative way to sell products and services.

And the opportunities are still growing. From pet trackers to crop planting, entrepreneurs and industry leaders are harnessing the power of GPS technology to meet the needs of companies in all industry sectors.

So the question isn’t if GPS technology can improve your business. It’s how GPS technology can improve your business. The future of location-based technology is bright. Companies that follow the light will discover a better, faster way to do business.