Computer software, what should I consider? Stuart says:
When choosing to use computer software, the end result is a cost-per-mile, cost-per-case, cost-per-hour or cost-per-something else number. Computer software is a tool. Success of application all depends of the size of the fleet and staff to assist in data management. For an average-sized fleet with small staff, lower cost may be attained by simply
Well, with a computer I can control my labor! Stuart Comments:
False, a computer never controlled any labor, only tracks the hours, if reported. And it can put pressure on labor, yes and sometimes needed, depending on how you manage your operation. How do you track you labor? A few questions to ask yourself about your operation: 1. Do you capture 100% of your labor hours?
What is the real importance of software program? Stuart says:
Software has a number of functions and lowering costs is a by-product of the system’s data. Here are most important functions: 1. The first and most important function is to track and schedule PM’s, preventive maintenance, which helps ensure that you are tracking and performing these important tasks of fleet maintenance. In addition, it ensures
I have looked at the numbers and I can’t see where my costs are too high!
Stuarts says: That is correct when, the numbers get to a reasonable level you can’t see how to drive cost lower. You may be taken to task and asked to take more out, but you can’t accomplish this if you can’t see where the costs can be lowered. Look where you need to look, in
What does PM, preventive maintenance rmeally Mean?
Stuart Comments: PM what does PM really mean? In some case it means lights out, afternoon or even after dark. In some cases its preventive maintenance service (PMS), but a lack of understanding at moment in time. It is clear that it has different meanings to each person who is responsible for the management or
So, the percentage of repair dollars are up. Find me some more juice! Squeeze that orange some more.
Stuart sites a case: Recently, there was a situation where one fleet, which is managed by a very competent VP of maintenance, converted the ailing maintenance program from truck-stop-breakdowns in route maintenance program to a sophisticated PM program that drove costs down, increased vehicle utilization, reduce the vehicle count and by all the beanies microscopic
I need a budget
Stuart Comments: Budgeting is normally based on the previous years’ operating costs with either a slight increase or decrease based on the replacement cycle for equipment. If your company has accurate records of costs in previous years, then expenses have a track record that indicates what the next year’s expenses should be, within a
Benchmarking. I was told I need to do it, what is it?
Stuart Explains: Benchmarking can also be defined as “a standard or point of reference in measuring or judging quality, value, etc.” For many fleet managers, it is also a term senior management uses to determine costs and to pin down projected costs. This concept is often masked by management saying, “Don’t spend any money.”
Measuring after PM repairs.
Stuart recommends looking at: Most of the successful cost-tracking systems use VMRS coding. I personally have been using VMRS for 35-plus years. I have also stepped out of the box as some of us do. I added a Reason for Repair Code (14) to track the costs “after the PM inspection.” Also, I want to
Low power: change the air filter or doesn’t the restriction gauge work?
Stuart laughs at: For some reason, the industry is paranoid about air restriction gauges. We just like to look at air filters and change them; we like to blow them out; we like to change them at every PM or at the request of the driver; or for driver safety; or at the terminal manager’s
Are PM’s are taking too long? Do you now have to set SRT at 1-1/2 hours?
Stuart Preaches: I say “so what” to how long a PM takes. The industry wants to manage by using standard repair times (SRTs) as a method of managing. You have to determine what is included within the PM. Consider what it is you need to do. Do you require battery terminals to be cleaned,
What you need to know to get from PM-to-PM with fuel filters.
Stuart Strongly Suggests: 1. Make sure the bottom of your fuel storage tanks are free of sediment. Check them periodically and have the muck removed—properly! 2. Ensure that there are fuel filters on the dispensing pump. Change them frequently as the flow rate slows down. Gas pumps are around eight to 10 gal. per