The use of global positioning systems (or GPS) has been expanding substantially over the last several years. With the use of cellular phones, the limitations of location have been greatly reduced. There are many industries that would benefit from adding GPS tracking systems to a business model. Here’s a closer look at these five groups that might surprise you.
GPS Tracking System Industry #1: Colleges and Universities
As the world continues to grapple with the impact of COVID-19, one of the most impacted industries has been education. While K-12 institutions have control over how students will behave when on school grounds, the same cannot be said for colleges and universities. In some cases, institutions of higher learning have remained in virtual teaching models. However, many others have begun shifting back to fully or partially face-to-face teaching. The usage of GPS tracking systems can go beyond location services. In the case of college students, smartphone applications can be used to trace contacts on campus.
Colleges and universities can use the data collected from GPS devices to develop response plans quickly. When students, faculty, or staff are asked to quarantine due to illness, access to campus services can be continued with low-risk, low-contact usage. For example, quarantined students can place orders for meals to be delivered by dining services. Notifications can be shared with applicable campus personnel to update them confidentially about status.
GPS Tracking System Industry #2: Retirement Communities
Similarly, retirement communities have experienced an incredibly difficult period. GPS tracking systems can be used to monitor overall health and wellness, encourage healthy choices, and provide guidance in the event of illness or injury. In many retirement communities, more intensive care is provided to residents who suffer from Alzheimers, dementia, and other conditions that require around-the-clock monitoring. With enhanced GPS monitoring, caregivers can establish boundaries that will provide alerts for any residents in restricted areas quickly, preventing injury or death. Additionally, the data collected by GPS devices can be shared with family members to prepare them for upcoming visits.
GPS Tracking System Industry #3: Courier Services
Courier services have seen a significant rise in activity for customers with the advancement of smartphones. It is hard to imagine how courier services, otherwise known as “gig economy” jobs, could exist without GPS tracking tools. Gig economy companies like Uber, DoorDash, and others provide instant gratification for customers. They also provide instant money-making opportunities for the couriers. In this industry, GPS provides the customer with up-to-the-moment updates on their orders. Additionally, the worker is provided job offers, navigation, and a security net in the event of a dangerous situation.
Data can be used from GPS tracking devices to enhance the overall performance of the courier and the service as a whole. GPS data can be used to provide in-the-moment feedback to each gig economy worker. Using location information to update routes and best practices can prove incredibly fruitful on all sides.
GPS Tracking System Industry #4: Fine Arts Organizations
Fine arts organizations, like museums and other public cultural institutions, have untapped potential with respect to GPS tracking. From a logistical perspective, tracking devices can be utilized to protect priceless artifacts and other elements of the facility. Adding an ongoing ability to have instantaneous location information can assist if an item is stolen or misplaced. Many fine arts museums will purchase, trade, loan, or otherwise traffic items between institutions. Having an added safety net to protect against loss or theft can lower the overall costs of insurance and facility operations.
Additionally, using GPS tracking for patron traffic can be used to increase revenue and provide a richer engagement with the facility itself. When museums are looking for ways to develop new educational and financial streams, adding audio and video narration can enhance patron engagement. GPS devices can be issued or rented to each patron for use in the museum. As they visit a particular area, the patron can learn about the work. This will also allow employees to use it effectively without being bombarded with the same questions repeatedly.
GPS Tracking System Industry #5: Parents of Young Drivers
Parents of young drivers are always looking for new ways to ensure their safety. Installing a GPS device in the vehicle itself or on the teenager’s phone can provide that added level of support. Using GPS tracking software will maintain an ongoing log of activities that can also be used to train and reinforce good driving practices.
Many insurance companies can lower the premiums paid by young drivers using GPS data. An ongoing record of driving actions such as braking, use of devices, and maintaining a good adherence to speed limits, can be kept. Providing a foundation for responsible decisions behind the wheel can set drivers up for a lifetime of successful driving.
Tracking the World: GPS Tracking Systems Going Above and Beyond
Now that you’ve seen a few of the industries that can benefit from the use of GPS, why waste another moment? At Tracking the World, our experts actively look for new ways to keep people safe, secure, and on the move. While every business is different, we believe that enhancing your current protocols can benefit all parties involved. When you’re ready to add GPS tracking to your best practices, contact us right away!
