Businesses that operate fleets need to capture, organize, and analyze a constant data flow. This includes maintaining records about fuel efficiency and driver behavior to help maximize the fleet’s efficiency. A business usually installs GPS fleet tracking systems to manage this. Those who wish to explore these systems might come across several options on the market. Here are a few tips to help one choose a GPS fleet tracking system: 1. Check maintenance planning tools One should look for a system that supports an over-the-air maintenance process. This can help one remotely monitor maintenance data for fully integrated planning and preventive upkeep. A GPS fleet tracking system should ideally support digital inspections, engine diagnostics, and built-in warnings and early alerts. 2. Look for reliable customer support Though GPS fleet tracking software needs to be correctly installed, constant management is required to analyze the data. One should consider customer support’s reliability in resolving real-time issues. Reliable fleet management software companies usually handle the installation and activation and work with the business to troubleshoot and make adjustments wherever necessary. 3. Consider the ease of usability Ease of use is a crucial factor to consider when looking for GPS fleet tracking software. It should be simple for the end user to operate. One should look for a dashboard with a clean interface. Additionally, the business could opt for product demonstrations to understand how it works before purchasing. 4. Make an informed decision Those who wish to manage a fleet for the first time may rush into buying the first GPS fleet tracking software. However, while software might seem attractive, another developer might offer something better. Therefore, it is important to research various options before making a decision. 5. Set a budget One should remember that fleet management software with more features and materials will cost more.

In today’s e-commerce scenario, improving supply chain visibility is critical. All parties, whether suppliers, manufacturers, or customers, want to know the ETAs of their shipments so they can plan what’s ahead. In that sense, GPS fleet tracking systems are worth their weight in gold in the fast and intense commerce industry. However, one must avoid these three common mistakes as far as possible when choosing GPS fleet tracking systems for business operations. Neglecting tracking range Companies delivering their goods over ultra-long distances must track their fleets throughout the route until they safely reach their destination. Therefore, people tasked with choosing GPS fleet trackers need to check the range of a given system before choosing it. Ideally, the range should be infinite if companies deliver their goods internationally. Even if a business delivers locally, it should choose a system with a long range. This way, it can track down its fleet accurately no matter how far away it is at any given moment. Neglecting the tracking range undermines the overall transparency of a company’s supply chain operations. Buying the cheapest/costliest option without thinking Usually, the costliest systems have the most fancy features and advanced capabilities. However, they may be useless to a small, local business just looking for a simple, no-nonsense fleet tracker. On the other hand, the cheapest systems may not have critical features and basic functionality, even for a small business. Therefore, one should consider the scale of operations and choose wisely. Ideally, one must purchase a tracker that performs well and falls within their budget. Failing to consider compatibility Most businesses use advanced ERP software to manage operations and become more efficient. A business’s GPS fleet tracking system must be compatible with such ERP systems to integrate all operations seamlessly. After all, fleet tracking is something that multiple stakeholders, such as suppliers, warehouse managers, and transportation partners, will need to have a finger on simultaneously.

Since data security has become a problem, companies must conduct a SOC 2 audit. This audit lets people know the company is working to protect their data. As a result, it increases customer loyalty, boosts the business’s reputation in the market, and provides many other benefits. However, one must prepare well and be careful during the process. Here are the three most common mistakes to avoid before starting a SOC 2 audit. Not assigning a project manager A company must assign a project manager after deciding to perform a SOC 2 audit. The individual oversees several audit-related tasks, one of the most important being data collection. During the audit, the company must collect documents and information from different departments, such as business operations, human resources, system admins, etc. This process can fall apart without a designated manager. Plus, there will be nobody to ensure effective communication between all departments, which can create confusion during the audit. Skipping a readiness assessment Skipping a readiness assessment is another big mistake companies must avoid before starting a SOC 2 audit. Before the external auditor arrives, a company must evaluate itself to check if it is ready for the audit. During this assessment, the company must evaluate the controls (security, privacy, confidentiality, etc.) the auditor will examine. By doing this, the company can identify any missing documents or gaps in the controls that could cause it to fail the audit. Not identifying the audit’s scope beforehand A company can delay the process if it adopts new systems or processes after the documentation (and before the final audit). Even if the company adds new systems within the audit period, it would lead to delays since the new systems need to be examined. Therefore, before starting, a company must identify the scope of the SOC 2 audit and tailor it accordingly.

A professional employer organization or PEO works as an outsourcing partner for businesses, helping manage human resource functions. PEOs share employment liability, making it easier for organizations to offer employees better benefits. Acting as an extension of the business, a PEO engages with the management team and addresses complex employee-related matters. Some PEOs also manage platforms for handling employee data. Here are a few reasons why businesses may need PEOs: 1. Limited resources This usually happens with small or new businesses. Such organizations may not have enough funds to build a full-fledged in-house HR department. While they get on their feet, a PEO can offer the organization necessary human resource support. They can assist with streamlining administrative tasks, legalities, employee handbook edits, updating company policy updates, and other tasks. For businesses that already have an HR team in place, a PEO can manage the basic HR activities so that the team can focus on strategic HR initiatives for business growth. 2. Excessive paperwork While administrative paperwork is a crucial part of business, it can be tedious and time-consuming. When paperwork piles up, a business loses critical time that could have been spent on revenue-generating activities. In such situations, PEOs can be useful businesses, helping them outsource tasks such as record-keeping and benefits management. The time saved on such activities can be utilized toward growth initiatives for the business. 3. Payroll is too time-consuming How a company processes its payroll can have a direct impact on employee morale. For instance, if an organization frequently delays the payment of salaries or processes the wrong payroll, employees can start feeling dissatisfied. These problems usually occur when a company is unable to manage payroll efficiently. Here, a PEO can provide help with timely payroll processing. The PEO will also help ensure accurate calculations, remittances, and tax filings.

E-commerce platforms continue to grow, which makes it crucial for a business to meet customer demands. One may require a more sophisticated order management system (OMS) in such situations. The system functions immediately after a customer places an order, from locating and picking up the item in a warehouse to packing and shipping the product to its final destination. For businesses still unsure about venturing into this automated space, here are five reasons to get an order management system. Maintain low inventory costs A key benefit of using an order management system is that it can take control of inventory management by simplifying the process with automation. The system uses in-location stock movements by setting rules to automate what happens to orders during packing based on triggers such as the delivery option selected, weight, and value. This reduces time spent manually on such tasks, which will help keep expenses low. Centralized customer service An OMS helps centralize customer service requirements by keeping all customer and order information in one location. Therefore, users are better informed about their orders through a complete view across all sales channels and fulfillment centers to address inquiries about shipping, delivery, and cancellations. The system helps build transparency in this avenue, which customers expect and appreciate when shopping online. Automatic order processing Most orders are placed in the later hours of the evening, usually when teams are not present to process them. Here’s where an order management system could help. One could set specific orchestration rules for non-working hours. With this, one could automate various tasks, including automatically allocating an online order to the warehouse, printing labels, and processing payments. The order processing speed increases and the stock inventories are updated in real-time. Versatile system An OMS is a versatile tool that can assist a business of any size through its growth.

Companies hire more staff as they grow. Sometimes, different people from across the globe join them. However, managing a global workforce can be challenging. The company must manage multiple employees’ payrolls, monetary benefits, and taxes and handle many other things. Hiring an Employer of Record (EOR) to govern these tasks can somewhat smoothen the company’s operations. So, here are four of the most essential benefits of using an EOR service: Hassle-free management of compliance Although necessary, compliance is quite time-consuming. Companies must remember and follow many rules, like creating financial reports, fulfilling minimum requirements for insurance coverage, and filing taxes. As a company grows, compliance work only increases, which can be challenging. A better way to manage compliance is to hire an EOR. It will help the company ensure proper compliance at the global level and save time on these tasks. Timely payment of employee salaries Paying employees on time is essential to ensure they are happy with their jobs and continue to do well. However, as companies hire more people, it can become difficult to handle their salaries. An EOR service manages the entire company payroll, ensuring individuals get their monthly salaries on time. Easy hiring of employees from around the world As mentioned, some companies must start branches abroad and hire people from different countries as they expand. However, getting the embassy’s approval to start business operations in another country can take a long time. In such cases, a company may be unable to independently hire employees from these countries, even if they are good. Luckily, an EOR can hire employees worldwide and pay them for their services. So, by hiring an EOR service provider, companies can get on their way toward expansion! Use of high-end HR software tools and platforms Many companies use modern software to carry out HR processes, which may be expensive.

Registering a business is a crucial step for any entrepreneur. It lays the foundation of the company and influences many aspects of business operations. However, the registration process can be complex, with potential pitfalls that could delay it, expose the business to legal risks, and cause financial losses. It is important to be careful during the registration process to ensure that the business is legally compliant and fully equipped to operate effectively and efficiently. Not researching thoroughly A common pitfall is failing to conduct thorough market research. Understanding the market, including potential customers, competition, and industry trends, is essential to tailor a business plan effectively. This insight can influence many business decisions, from product development to marketing strategies. Choosing the wrong business structure Choosing the right business structure is crucial for entrepreneurs as it can impact their liability, tax responsibilities, and growth prospects. Whether it’s a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation, each has its advantages and disadvantages. Picking the wrong structure can pose numerous challenges, and it is essential to align business goals with the right structure to ensure success. Ignoring local zoning laws Local zoning laws can significantly impact where one can conduct business. Before setting up operations, one must check with local zoning requirements to ensure that one’s business activities are allowed in the chosen location. Non-compliance can lead to fines or even force one to relocate. Overlooking tax implications Each business structure has different tax implications, which are critical to understand as they directly affect financial planning and profitability. For example, corporations are subject to double taxation on dividends, while LLCs benefit from pass-through taxation, meaning the business itself isn’t taxed, only the income reflected on the owners’ tax returns is taxed. Neglecting necessary licenses and permits Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is crucial for legal compliance.

Call centers help businesses earn more money by improving customer service and boosting sales. On a typical day, they speak to people on the phone, tell them about the company’s products, solve their queries, and take orders. Since call centers play an important role, one must ensure they work well and be productive. Employees can take several tiny measures to improve customer satisfaction and try to convert every call into a sale! Prioritize solutions over the product or service Of course, to drive more sales, one must market the business’s product or service. Letting potential customers know their product is better than their competitor’s offering is a good sales technique. But it is not something customers wish to hear. They approach call centers for solutions to their problems. So, one should be clear about how the product or service can solve their problem. Businesses can prepare their agents to respond promptly when a customer asks a question. While it will increase training time, it is a great way to sell a product using a call center. Streamline the order-taking process Call center agents must not hide details like the product’s price or availability when someone makes an inquiry. Doing so complicates the order-taking process. Even if the price of a particular product is a bit high, one should not be afraid to state it. Customers who believe in the product and its value will purchase it, regardless of the price. Being transparent about the price, delivery process, and after-sales services can simplify order-taking and boost sales. Provide personalized service Besides responding to calls quickly, call centers must provide customized service to each caller. For example, when dealing with a new (first-time) customer, one can lure them with discounts and tell them about loyalty offers if they continue this association. It will make them call again for future orders.