School Bus Fleet Archives - trackschoolbus

How TrackSchoolBus System Keeps Your Bus Fleet Running Smoothly

Posted on April 18, 2019 by TSB Super Admin

To efficiently manage a fleet of buses is obviously a painstaking task, not to mention the problems that arise despite the hard work. But, with technology, like TrackSchoolBus System, you can definitely have your efforts halved and results improved.

TrackSchoolBus System is an all-in-one application that suits the needs of parents, drivers, and transport managers alike, with bus safety as a priority. Here’s how it helps you get a better grip of your job and keep the bus fleet running smoothly.

Plan bus routes efficiently

Planning bus routes manually may be a nightmare to most transport managers. It takes days to collect data regarding traffic and routes. To organize the information, to sit together with your team, and plan the routes may take another few weeks.

And no matter how much effort you have taken, you may end up making mistakes, the most common one being allotting two or more routes for the same bus, or vice versa. Such errors may cause all your week-long hard work to go down the drain.

School-Transport-Software--Ensure-enhanced-student-safety

In the case of school bus fleet, the Parent App integrated with the TrackSchoolBus System provides residential information of students, making it easy to allot pick-up points.

Even if a student relocates,the auto routing feature of TrackSchoolBus System makes the job easier for transport managers. In short, TrackSchoolBus System assists you in assigning buses and planning bus routes. But you, as the transport manager, will have full control over the bus fleet management process.

Keep track of bus drivers

Efficient management of fleet also involves taking enough steps to ensure bus safety. Despite sufficient background check before hiring, it is not always easy to detect driver malpractices until they start the job.

Malpractices like over speeding, drunken driving, taking a route different from the original, etc., can affect bus safety as well as add to the operational costs. Therefore, it is important to monitor bus drivers while on duty.

TrackSchoolBus System makes it possible for you to keep track of bus drivers’ performances, a task which is manually impossible.The application utilizes GPS to gather data and notifies transport managers real time regarding the speed of the bus, unwanted stops, punctuality, etc. All these data gets stored for future use.

Reduce operational costs

An important portion of an organization’s expense comprises operating the bus fleet. The operational costs include amount spent in terms of maintaining the fleet, refuelling, the distance covered by the buses, and the like. Manual labour and driver malpractices can also add to the expenses.

TrackSchoolBus System allows constant monitoring of fleet, thus helping you to avoid unwanted expenses. Since bus drivers are aware of being monitored, they will not attempt vehicle misuse or other malpractices.

This helps to save fuel, avoid accidents and as a result, the maintenance costs can be reduced. Also, since the application helps reduce manual efforts, labour costs can be halved as well.

Ensure BusSafety

Bus safety is also an important part of efficient bus fleet management. The TrackSchoolBus System helps you to keep driver behaviour at check by providing you with real-time notifications regarding location and speed of the bus. This helps curb any sort of driver malpractices.

Also, the school bus tracking software provides information regarding passenger attendance. This is helpful especially when you are managing school buses. Parents are often concerned whether their kids have boarded the right bus and through their journey to school and back.

TrackSchoolBus System provides real-time information notifications to parents as well so that they feel ensured. It also notifies you at times of emergency so that you can act quickly.

Fleet management software has become popular in the past few years. Many companies have come forward with their own versions of software. But, amongst them all, here is how TrackSchoolBus System stands apart.

User-friendly interface

TrackSchoolBus system comes with a simple interface that can be easily used by transport managers, authorities, drivers, and parents, alike. It saves you from the extra expenses usually spent over training sessions to acquaint everyone with complex fleet management software.

Cost effective

Most organizations rely on technology to cut down costs. But, most of the time, the opposite happens. The above-mentioned points regarding how TrackSchoolBus System helps you handle bus fleet efficiently are the perfect reasons to why it is a cost-effective solution.

Customizable

“Comfort” is one of the factors that any organization looks into in any software they plan to use. TrackSchoolBus System can be customized according to the needs of whoever is using it.

Compatible

TrackSchoolBus System works well with any device and latest Operating Systems.

In short, depending on technology, like TrackSchoolBus System, can help you get past the hurdles put forward by manual bus fleet management and ensure a smooth running bus fleet for your organization.

What To Do With Aging School Buses

Posted on December 26, 2018 by TSB Super Admin

School buses naturally age when they have been in use for several years since the time of their manufacture. The longer the period that they have been on the roads, the greater will be their wear and tear.

Aging gives rise to maintenance issues. Weather conditions and environmental factors add to the aging of school buses.

Aging generally reduces the reliability and performance of school buses. This consequently causes an impact on the safety of students travelling by these buses.

Hence, timely upgradation of the school transportation fleet is of prime importance. Aging school buses can be repaired, refurbished, retrofitted or replaced to increase operational efficiency.

School authorities can choose the option best suited to them within the framework of their school policies and applicable rules of the local authorities.

Repairs

Repairing school buses is the first option that is available to school authorities. Before they decide on any other option, it would be wise to check if the vehicle can be put to use for some more time after doing essential repairs.

These repairs can include both breakdown and preventive maintenance. In breakdown maintenance, repairs are confined to rectifying the specific defect to make the vehicle operational again.

In preventive maintenance, the worn out part or component is repaired or replaced before it is totally damaged. This includes routine oil change, and air filter replacements; as also replacement of tires, lamps and other such components.

Starting and stopping the school buses during their daily trips cause frequent mechanical failures as the school bus ages. Frequent repairs cause the buses to remain out of operation very often.

Replacements for some of the faulty parts are hard to obtain as the model becomes outdated. Delay in procuring the replacement parts will result in an increase in repair time.

At times, the cost of replacement parts can be prohibitively high making this option unfeasible.

Hence it is suggested that major repair of aging school buses be taken up only if the school authorities face operational or fund restrictions when considering other more expensive options.

Refurbishment

Refurbishment of aging school buses means restoring the bus to its original condition and manufacturer’s standards. Performance specifications stated by the manufacturer should always be adhered to.

Refurbishment involves replacement and service of the existing body parts of the vehicle. Damaged mechanical parts are replaced, and cleaning, servicing and lubrication of parts are carried out.

The components are then tested for smooth operation and necessary adjustments are made. The seats and upholstery are refurbished. Painting of the vehicle is also done.

The advantage of this option is cost saving. Refurbishment can be done over a period of time thus deferring one-time expenditure. Refurbishment is a cheaper option when compared to the cost of a new bus.

This option has disadvantages as it is solely based on the age of the bus. Access to original performance manuals and spare parts will be severely limited.

Some of the parts may be unavailable due to non-production. The high costs of major components are a deterrent to refurbishing aging vehicles.

However, the age of the bus and degree of wear and tear are factors that influence the refurbishment decision. The cost of extending the life of the bus should be compared with the returns that can be generated from school bus operations to ascertain the viability of a refurbishment option.

Retrofitting

Retrofitting is an option that can be used to upgrade the school buses that are in a fairly good working condition and can be used for some more time.

It involves the replacement of some of the school bus parts with new and modern components. While retrofitting the buses with new technology devices, compliance with the current governmental regulations needs to be ensured.

This is done to match the performance of the bus with those that have the most recent specifications.This helps to make day-to-day operations easy.

In a mechanical retrofit, for example, a diesel engine of the aging bus may be replaced with the more recent emission-controlled version. This would reduce pollution and control emissions.

Most of the old buses would have to have air-conditioners installed due to changing climatic conditions. Child security features like higher seats, individual seat belts, stop arms and crossing gates are some of the improvements done in a retrofit.

In a technology retrofit, GPS and RFID, video cameras and music systems are added. These gadgets are of great help to both parents and school in monitoring student attendance and behaviour of students in the bus.

Retrofit enhances the safety of the school bus and increases operational efficiency. It will be cheaper to retrofit than to buy a new bus with all the latest features.

Retrofit, though a more expensive option can turn out to be cost-effective in the longer run. The choice is entirely dependent on the age of the bus. It would be wise to weigh all factors and then decide whether it would be worthwhile to spend this extra amount on an already old school bus.

Replacement

Replacement of an aging bus with a new one is suggested when the school bus has outlived its life. The operational expense of an old bus is always higher than that of a new bus.

When the repair, refurbish and retrofit options are no longer feasible, it is better to replace the aging bus with a new one.

Before embarking on buying a replacement, it would be advisable to assess the current need of the school and the existing governmental regulations.

For example, procuring a big or small bus would depend on the number of students using the bus and the route that it has to service. New features can save a lot of labor for the authorities.

Latest models use less energy and are fuel efficient. Hence, they cost less to operate. Students’ safety aspect is an essential factor to be considered.

Above all, it should ensure that the cost of the new replacement vehicle is justified by a guaranteed return on the investment.

Conclusion

Repair, refurbishment, retrofitting or replacement decision is mainly taken to upgrade the aging school bus fleet. There is no exact vehicle age when the buses can be modified or replaced.

It differs and depends on the wear and tear for each individual bus. All options are based on spending money to save money in the long run.

The decision to adopt any one of these choices should be based on the benefits derived in terms of improved student safety, operating cost efficiency and other environmental factors.

How to Identify the Best Route Planning Software for Your School Bus Fleet

Posted on November 30, 2017 by TSB Super Admin

One of the key challenges confronted by the school transportation services is the rising fuel expenses. By optimizing routes for the school bus trip, you will be able to handle the issue. In fact, the implementation of route planning software enables you to resolve the routing concerns of school bus fleets.

Nevertheless, scheduling and coordinating routes manually is an expensive, tedious and complicated task. With the utilization of school bus routing software, school transportation will be able to accomplish the goals dexterously.

How to select the appropriate route planning software?

Of course there is a multitude of options on the market, especially for purchasing the transportation software. However, the selection process involves prodigious procedures. Have a glimpse of the common considerations that should be scrutinized while choosing the route planning software:

Is the software compatible with other kinds of software?

Ordinarily, the efficient operation of a routing software depends on its compatibility with other software programs, which comprise the GPS vehicle tracking programs, student tracking programs, and student information systems. Moreover, it assists you to save money and time along with the student safety.

At times, route management software is a game changer for school transportation. But, it is essential to be aware of current trends, and thus incorporating up-to-date technology can be beneficial for you. And, updating the software can lower the expenses, save time, and reduce hassle.

Essential features of route planning software

Routing software will be designed on the basis of number of users, the size of your district, and the complication of your school bus routes. Presumably, the modern routing software encompasses detailed area maps that enables you to add new roads, pick up points, and travel limits. And, if the routing software you are utilizing can not compare the multiple routes based on your requirement, then it's time to upgrade it. Other crucial features include:

Allocating pick up points for school bus students based on user specification (walk-to-stop distances)
Considering right sided pickups
Options for setting pick-up and drop location
Bus pass creation
Calendar settings
Store bus routing details for generating reports
Identify sex offender areas and avoid those areas in routing
Customization options

Training and support

The routing software will be futile, if you don't have an awareness on how to operate or utilize it. While choosing the provider, examine the type of training provided, and how it satisfies the needs of your staff. Two types of training are exclusively available for you- web based training and in-person training. And, ensure that the software provider gives constant support for maintenance.

Reports

Based on the data obtained from the software, you will be able to generate accurate and comprehensive reports. Certain software can also generate reports with the historical data. And, school transportation officials will be able to carefully analyse it and enhance the school bus routing.

As a matter of fact, by choosing the suitable route planning software, the overall school transport service will be improved as it solve all the discrepancies involved in the school bus routing.

How will You Know that School Bus Fleet is ready to Handle Emergencies?

Posted on October 9, 2017 by TSB Super Admin

The worst fear of every parent is regarding their child’s safety. With the alarming incidents of child abuse and everyday mishaps, the concerns become worrisome. To add fuel to the fire, there are several nuclear families, where the parents prefer to care their children almost independently. While the rise of nuclear families is not a popular issue, the effects are visible in the societal set up with increased transparency.

In consideration to the growing number of vehicles on the street every day. Surely, there are numerous parents, hence resorting to sending kids by school buses. In fact, parents are likely to trust the school bus fleet than a private service simply due to the trust that they had put in the administration/management of the schools.

Hence, the responsibility of a safer travel environment for the kids rests with the management in particular. While considering the safety, the first question that comes to your mind is whether they can handle emergencies. How one can assure this readiness is the prime question. A simple matrix might not work, but there are certain factors, which can be indicative of an excellent school bus fleet and its readiness to handle emergencies.

1. Crew aware of safety rules

Lack of Safety rules and regulations is one important area, where the management can step in and provide assistance. Regular refresher courses and safety training among the school bus staff can be of tremendous support in instilling confidence not only among the school bus crew, but also among the parents. A well-informed school bus driver might not likely violate the rules, if he knows the possible legal consequences. It’s not regarding the fear of violations, but the awareness of the responsibilities that would establish the school bus crew in a superior way.

2. First aid box adequate

The next important rule of thumb about safety is the proper installation of a first aid box. The contents should be adequate and not expired. In several cases, the school bus staff fails to check the expiry dates of the medicines and other items in the first aid box, which can be completely useless in handling emergencies.

3. Children are taught the rules on safety

Awareness of traffic and safety rules among the children can help the bus staff to maintain the discipline and provide a safe ride without trouble. Bullying, ignoring the bus staff advice, shouting and loud singing, etc. can distract the driver and invite accidents. Ordinarily, schools that include the traffic and safety rules and regulations in their curriculum will be the first choice of parents.

Children should also be taught on how to provide first aid and the need to keep calm and not panic in case of emergencies. They should also be taught how to exit from the bus in case of such emergencies through emergency windows or such safety measures.

4. Security measures such as GPS in place

Technological advances such as GPS tracker and RFID tags when properly utilized will certainly enhance the confidence among the parents. Advanced fleet management systems can automatically send messages, emails or push notifications when the child boards the bus, alights from the bus, or when the bus crosses certain points on the route etc.

If your school has provided such facilities to ensure the safety of children, parents are sure to vouch for you. RFID tags are embedded in the ID cards of the children in certain schools, which help them to track them individually also. When handling emergency situations, these fleet management systems can initiate SOS messages and help the legal authorities in tracking down the bus without wasting time. Sending a substitute bus for break down also becomes easier with such systems .

5. Emergency contact numbers displayed

Does your school bus display the contact numbers of emergency clearly so that the immediate rescuers can inform the authorities? If so, then your fleet should be well-equipped to handle emergencies too.

6. Fire exit in place and working

Checking whether the emergency exit measures, seat belts, air bags, etc. are working properly once in a while can create a meaningful difference in case of emergencies. Doing so can help to boost the confidence of the bus crew as well as the parents.

Issues Faced by School Bus Fleet Managers [Infographics]

Posted on December 15, 2016 by TSB Super Admin

With the increased traffic and unsafe conditions, the school bus transportation became difficult. Road related accidents and injuries are increasing day by day due to the increased number of vehicles on the road. Students are more exposed to accidents as they are unaware of essential safety rules and safety measures. Hence, student road safety has been at stake ever since.

School bus fleet managers are said to be the caretaker of students on a school bus. Their prime responsibility is the safety of school bus students. Apart from this, there are so many important responsibilities that should be fulfilled by a fleet manager.

Often, you will be able to see fleet managers finding difficulty in organising pick up point location of each school bus student, conducting maintenance and repair, contacting every school bus driver, checking the status of school buses, attending to emergency situations, and managing complaints of parents.

Lack of communication and improper monitoring of a school bus makes the task of school bus fleet managers risky and complex. Fleet managers need to organise and plan school bus schedules properly for smooth functioning of school bus transportation. When you analyze school bus transportation closely, you will be able to identify certain common issues faced by a fleet manager.