Joining up the dots of fleet management to reduce overheads and create improved service provision in remote locations

Marie Stopes International has developed a combined fleet management system with GPS/GPRS tracking to improve service delivery and increase access to contraception in rural areas around the world. The system is the first time these two aspects have been integrated together, Integration enables Marie Stopes International to assess its reach of service delivery, along with fleet running costs and fleet utilisation. In areas of higher security risk, Marie Stopes International is using the system to increase the safety of its team members. From the six countries that have implemented the system to date, lessons include the need for a dedicated fleet manager and involvement from key employees. Time to properly implement the system and manage the data, as well as allowing for delays in customs for importation, is also necessary. The integrated system will enable Marie Stopes International to manage its fleet more efficiently, including reducing running costs, increasing appropriate vehicle utilisation and monitoring service delivery.