Tracking system for mobile workers deemed a success

A new pay-as-you-go location and tracking system designed to locate and communicate with a mobile workforce is attracting huge interest from the construction industry. Over 500 construction companies have signed up since its launch in April.

FleetOnline.net uses the location information available through almost any mobile phone to show the location of workers. Through the FleetOnline website the information is placed on a map with a label, allowing site managers to see where staff are without having to call. There is no set up cost or extra equipment, and no contract as all positions and messages are billed to the user's mobile phone, like text messaging.

Managing director Erik Jansen is surprised by the interest from the construction industry, having originally targeted the transport and maintenance industries.

"One of the most popular phrases at the business end of mobile phone conversations is 'where are you?'. It is, therefore, beneficial to any industry with a mobile workforce. It reduces call costs and improves safety through not having to call workers while they are driving. It is simple to use and costs as little as 20p per location, dependent on the network. It's a cheaper alternative to global positioning systems, that require technical set up and special terminals costing several thousand pounds per vehicle," said Jansen.

Four mobile networks - Vodaphone, O2, T-Mobile and Orange - are connected to the system, but Jansen said others will soon follow.