An app for that? Five mobile tech strategies to retain drivers

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Updated Feb 21, 2015
U.S. Xpress (CCJ Top 250, No. 12) developed a mobile app that is used by more than 5,400 of its drivers to connect with time-sensitive dispatch and perform other routine work functions.U.S. Xpress (CCJ Top 250, No. 12) developed a mobile app that is used by more than 5,400 of its drivers to connect with time-sensitive dispatch and perform other routine work functions.

More than 70 percent of drivers now use smartphones or tablets, putting them ahead of the national rate of 56 percent. Besides responding to emails, texts, and Facebook notifications during their breaks, many use personal devices to stay engaged with their jobs.

Recognizing the opportunity, fleets are using mobile apps to help drivers earn more money, get paid faster, improve safety and perhaps most importantly, stay on their payroll longer.

“Gamification” is one of the most recent trends in fleet mobility. Many apps incorporate game elements like scorecards and leader boards to foster competition and appeal to the basic emotional need of drivers and all humans — to obtain status and achievement.

When used effectively, gamification and other mobile strategies can help keep drivers engaged, especially the younger generation. Here are five ways to use mobility to gain a retention advantage. Click on one to continue.

Fuel savings>>

Efforts to improve fuel economy have traditionally been met with fierce headwinds. Drivers quickly lose interest if they feel penalized by factors they do not control like load weight, weather and topography. New apps give drivers immediate feedback and score them fairly to increase engagement.

Virtual rewards>>

Businesses often use loyalty programs to influence their customers’ buying behaviors. Some in the transportation industry use similar programs to increase driver engagement.

Performance pay>>

Carriers are using the amount of data they have available on driver performance to create sophisticated performance-based pay packages. These efforts are a way to increase engagement by putting drivers’ income in their own hands.

Extending fleet mobility>>

For fleets, one of the advantages of Android and Apple devices is that most drivers — and especially the younger generation — are already familiar with the technology and appreciate the many conveniences they provide.

Same-day pay>>

Perhaps one of the most tangible benefits that fleets can offer their drivers is same-day pay. Mobile apps that capture images and integrate with payroll and billing systems in the back office have become essential to make this a reality.