Field Service IT News — March 13, 2014

By Amy Taylor, contributing writer

Articles this week explore the benefits of wearable technology in field service and how fleet managers face ever-increasing challenges keeping drivers connected to their networks.

Wearable Technology Could Mean Big Savings To Field Service Industry

While wearable technology continues to gain ground in the workplace, Forbes said that field service roles are poised to experience the greatest benefit from the services, particularly smart glasses. Smart glasses with augmented reality and head-mounted cameras can increase the efficiency of technicians, engineers, and other workers in field service, potentially increasing profits by $1 billion annually. The ability to diagnose and fix problems quickly, without the assistance of additional on-site experts will bring the greatest savings.

Fleet Managers Face Ever-Expanding Demand For Connectivity

Commercial Carrier Journal said that connectivity is complicated within the fleet management space because of issues surrounding security, compensation, reliability and private versus consumer devices. As commercial platforms move quickly to develop technology to support job-related conveniences, like reserve parking spots, fleet managers need to decipher the best ways to ensure connectivity.

Field Service IT Talking Points

In Fleet Owner, Sean Kilcarr takes on “A partnership for cutting carbon – and saving fuel.” The argument claims that cutting carbon emissions goes hand-in-hand with efforts to improve fuel efficiency.

Additionally, Fleet Owner reports that the WheelTime Network will help spur the wider adoption of “dual-fuel” truck technology developed by American Power Group. Dual-fuel technology operates on both natural gas and diesel, which cuts down on fuel expenses and addresses refueling and range concerns.

For more news and insights, visit BSMinfo’s Field Service Tech Center.