Using Data To Improve Driver Performance
Done are the days of reacting to moving violations and crashes. A motor carrier’s future depends on proactive behavior correction to reduce the triggers of costly litigation.
The data from electronic logging devices (ELDs), dash cams, electronic control modules (ECMs), and compliance data from driver qualification files can be overwhelming.
Improving and retaining drivers without a “gotcha” culture is imperative with the shortage of skilled drivers. The keys are getting drivers to take accountability for positive change and recognizing drivers with equal enthusiasm.
The critical question is, ”How do you overcome driver resistance to being monitored 24 x 7?”
Emphasize the following five benefits to help mold your culture to one of accepting feedback, as well as using recognition to appreciate drivers:
- Targeted Coaching
Data and video allow you to spot where a driver’s greatest weaknesses—and risks—lie. You can provide the exact type of coaching needed to improve that driver’s skill, on-the-job performance, and value to the company.
Coaches should:
- Be prepared with facts and leave emotions out,
- Conduct sessions in private,
- Show respect and gratitude, and
- Be interested in the driver and their perspective.
- Increased Recognition
Your ability to compare each driver’s behavior to that of the other drivers within your fleet allows you to spot your high performers and recognize them accordingly. This likely wasn’t easy in the past, but now, with technology at hand, your high-performing drivers and drivers showing improvement will be clearly identifiable with well-managed and displayed data. Scorecards reinforce that management is taking notice.
The data also supports performance bonus programs, which serve as tangible recognition of a job well done.
- Improved Safety
Your drivers will experience fewer violations and reduce their chances of a crash with targeted coaching and training. The constructive use of data and video helps foster a culture of proactive safety practices. Drivers appreciate a company that prioritizes protecting them from lawsuits, accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.
- Job Security
Most drivers know they can quickly secure a new driving job. However, drivers generally want to keep the job they have. Targeted coaching, skill improvement, and well-deserved recognition help them appreciate their value to the company and instill a desire for long-term employment. Drivers become self-motivated to be even better as they realize the tangible benefits of longevity.
- Reduced Roadside Inspections
The safer your drivers operate, the better (lower) your fleet’s Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) scores, which help prevent your drivers from being targeted for roadside inspections. Your drivers can spend more time behind the wheel and less time going through inspections.
Carriers and drivers can benefit from a system that monitors and prioritizes the riskiest compliance and behavior data when coupled with coaching and recognition in equal doses. J. J. Keller and Associates can provide a best-in-class solution if you haven’t adopted a data-driven coaching process or have reached a plateau.
About J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
Since we began as a family-owned company in 1953, our purpose at J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has been to protect people and the businesses they run. Today, serving 500,000+ companies across North America, our associates are proud to make a larger impact than ever. Transportation, construction and industrial organizations of all sizes rely on our expert insights to create safe work environments and simplify complex government regulations. They trust our diversified portfolio of solutions – cloud-based management tools, consulting, professional services, training, forms, PPE and safety supplies – to safeguard workers, reduce risk and build operational confidence. www.jjkeller.com
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