Across England, existing county, district and borough councils are being brought together into new unitary structures; creating single authorities responsible for a huge range of local services.

The scale of the changes is made clear by the Government’s live updates page. Decisions have been announced for 19 of the 21 areas going through Local Government Reorganisation, with the confirmed plans creating 57 unitary councils.

But waste collections, street cleansing, grounds maintenance and other frontline services cannot be joined together overnight. New unitary authorities may inherit several different ways of working, supported by different technology, depots, fleets, contractors and operational policies.

The challenge is not simply to combine them but to decide what the new service should look like, and build the systems, data and operational structure needed to deliver it.

The Operational Challenges Facing New Unitary Councils

When neighbouring councils become one, the new authority can inherit a complex mix of legacy arrangements. Waste and recycling services are a clear example. Former council areas may operate different collection frequencies, use different containers and accept different materials. Food waste arrangements may vary, as might policies for assisted collections, bulky waste, garden waste and commercial waste.

Behind these visible differences are further operational variations:

• Each authority may use its own ICT systems and databases.
• Depot locations and fleet arrangements may have developed around historic boundaries.
• One service may be delivered in-house while another is outsourced, with contracts ending at different times.

Existing collection rounds are also likely to have been designed around the boundaries and resources of the former authorities. Once those boundaries disappear, they may no longer represent the most efficient way to serve the new area.

People are another important part of the picture. Staff restructuring, TUPE transfers and changes to management structures may all form part of the transition. Different teams can also bring different working practices, processes and local knowledge.

The immediate priority must, of course, be continuity. Residents still need their bins collected and streets maintained throughout the transition. However, LGR also creates an opportunity to look beyond maintaining existing arrangements and consider how services could be delivered more smoothly as part of a single authority.

The Need for a Single Operational View

One of the first challenges for a new unitary authority is gaining a clear view of what is happening across its newly combined area. If operational information remains fragmented between legacy systems, spreadsheets and databases, it becomes difficult for managers to understand performance across the authority as a whole.

The same property could potentially be represented differently in separate systems, while teams may record jobs, exceptions and service outcomes in different ways. Creating a common operational view can help remove these barriers.

Integrated Skills' SmartSuite is designed to provide a single source of truth for environmental services, allowing councils to manage multiple services through one platform. SmartSuite can support waste and recycling collections alongside services such as street cleansing, winter maintenance and gully emptying. Bringing this information together gives managers greater visibility of what is happening across operational teams and provides a more consistent basis for reporting.

During LGR, this can be particularly valuable. Reliable operational information allows councils to compare inherited services, identify differences and make evidence-based decisions about the future model.

Importantly, that value continues after the transition. A single operational view can help the new authority monitor performance, identify problems and continue improving services long after vesting day.

Harmonising Service Delivery Across the New Authority

Creating one authority does not mean that every service needs to become identical immediately. There may be good reasons for retaining some local differences - particularly during transition.

Existing contracts, vehicle availability, infrastructure and local geography can all affect the pace at which services can be harmonised. However, where standardisation is planned, LGR provides an opportunity to reconsider how services are designed.

Once several areas become one authority, historic boundaries may have little operational relevance. A depot that once sat at the edge of one council area, for example, could occupy a very different position within the new authority. This is where strategic route optimisation can support the transition.

Using RouteSmart Optimize and related solutions in the route optimisation suite, councils can model collection rounds and street services across the new operating area rather than simply joining existing rounds and services together. Different scenarios can be tested before changes are introduced. For example:

• What would happen if collections were operated from fewer depots?
• Could vehicles work across former council boundaries?
• How would changing waste & recycling collection frequencies affect the number of rounds required?
• Could workloads be balanced more evenly between crews?

Effective route optimisation can help balance workloads, reduce unnecessary mileage, make better use of fleet resources and create rounds that reflect the needs of the new authority, rather than the boundaries of the old ones.

Managing More Than Waste Services

Waste and recycling may be one of the largest frontline operations inherited by a new unitary authority, but it is far from the only one. A new council may also need to manage:

• Trade waste
• Street cleansing
• Grounds maintenance
• Winter maintenance
• Gully emptying
• Inspections and reactive jobs
• Emergency planning and response

Running each of these services through separate systems can create unnecessary duplication. Staff may need to move between different applications, managers may receive reports in different formats, property and customer information can be duplicated, and jobs that involve more than one team become harder to track.

A common operational platform offers a different approach. By managing multiple environmental and neighbourhood services through SmartSuite, authorities can create more consistent processes and gain a broader view of activity across their area. This can also make it easier to allocate resources and understand how different services interact.

For a newly formed unitary council, the opportunity is therefore greater than simply replacing several waste systems with one. LGR can provide the catalyst for considering how technology supports environmental services across the whole authority.

Data Integration and Digital Transformation

Technology consolidation does not necessarily mean replacing every existing system. The challenge is enabling these systems to communicate effectively.  Legacy systems may contain conflicting property records, different naming conventions or disconnected service histories.

Resolving these issues takes careful planning, but it also creates an opportunity to improve the quality and usability of operational data. SmartSuite provides APIs that allow integration with other applications, including:

• CRMs
• Telematics
• Finance systems
• Weighbridges (for waste tracking)
• Bin sensors

Property-level service histories can provide a clearer picture of what has happened at an individual address, while centralised reporting and analytics can help managers understand wider patterns.

This moves digital transformation beyond simply putting existing processes onto new software. It creates the opportunity to reconsider how information moves through the organisation and how it can support better operational decisions.

Supporting Frontline Workers Through Transformation

LGR is an organisational change, but its success relies on the people delivering services on the frontline. Drivers and operatives may find themselves working across a larger geographic area, routes may change, teams may be combined, and familiar processes could be replaced by authority-wide procedures.

Clear communication between frontline teams and management becomes especially important during this period. SmartSuite Mobile can support this connection in the field. Turn-by-turn navigation can help crews work confidently across unfamiliar areas, while service verification creates a clear record of completed activity.

Mobile job management and real-time operational updates allow information to move between the office and frontline teams without relying on paper-based processes or separate communications. Two-way messaging also provides a direct way to share important information with crews.

The Role of Professional Services

Before choosing how systems, routes or services should operate, councils need to understand what they have inherited and what they want the future authority to achieve.

Professional support can help councils assess existing operations, analyse route performance and identify opportunities for improvement. Integrated Skills' consultancy team can support the development of implementation roadmaps, helping authorities understand how changes could be phased while protecting service continuity.

Modelling is particularly valuable where several options are under consideration. Rather than basing major operational decisions on assumptions, councils can compare scenarios and quantify potential impacts on resources, mileage, cost and carbon emissions.

Change management is equally important. A technically efficient model still needs to work for staff, residents and the wider organisation. Bringing operational knowledge together with data analysis can help ensure proposed changes are both achievable and sustainable.

Turning Reorganisation into an Opportunity

The practical challenges of LGR should not be underestimated, but the shift also creates a rare opportunity. Authorities can use reorganisation to examine how frontline operations should work for the future; creating services that are easier to manage, more visible, resilient and efficient.

With the right operational data, technology, route modelling and professional support, LGR can provide the foundations for a genuinely integrated approach to local service delivery.

Integrated Skills supports local authorities through service transformation, from strategic modelling and route optimisation to operational technology and implementation support. Contact the Integrated Skills team to discuss how we can support your authority through Local Government Reorganisation.

The post One Authority, Multiple Services: Life After Local Government Reorganisation appeared first on Integrated Skills.

When organisations invest in operational technology, the conversation often centres around features, integrations, and functionality. But as APIs, automation, and real-time data have become standard expectations across the industry, successful technology projects are no longer defined solely by what the software can do.

Instead, they are defined by the experience surrounding it - and we believe excellent customer experience is just as important as cutting edge technology.

Integrated Skills (an employee-owned company) takes looking after its customers extremely seriously. From implementation and onboarding through to day-to-day support, our focus is always on creating long-term partnerships that genuinely support operational teams.

This was a major theme throughout our recent webinar: “Minimal Touch, Maximum Impact”, particularly during discussions around Durham County Council’s experience with SmartSuite and the live demonstrations delivered by Jonathan Uttley, one of our Implementation Consultants.

Everyone Can Do APIs, But Who Delivers the Best Experience?

Modern APIs mean software platforms can now communicate with each other far more easily, with integrations taking days, not months. This shift has changed expectations across local authorities and operational services and has solidified user experience as the new differentiator.

The challenge is no longer simply connecting systems. The real challenge is ensuring the people who use the technology every day (drivers, crews, supervisors, and office teams) benefit from it. That means creating solutions that are intuitive, reliable, supportive, and backed by people who understand operational pressures.

Durham’s Experience: A Partnership Approach

A key highlight of the webinar was hearing about Durham County Council’s experience of using SmartSuite. It’s always great to hear of a positive experience of the software, but what stood out most was the importance of the relationship behind the technology.

Like many local authorities, Durham needed a solution that could simplify daily operations while supporting both frontline crews and back-office teams. Ease of use, visibility, and reliability were all critical.

The discussion highlighted how SmartSuite helped reduce manual processes and improve communication between operational teams. Drivers were able to access clearer information in-cab, while supervisors gained improved visibility of services in real time.

But the wider experience extended beyond the software. Throughout implementation and beyond, Durham received ongoing support from the Integrated Skills team, ensuring the rollout remained collaborative, responsive, and focused on operational realities. This partnership-led approach is central to how we work.

Demonstrating “Minimal Touch” in Practice

Jonathan’s live demonstrations during the webinar reinforced how SmartSuite has been designed around the principle of “minimal touch, maximum impact”. The demonstrations showcased how technology can support crews without becoming intrusive or distracting.

Features highlighted included:

• Voice-led prompts for assisted collections and service updates
• GPS-led navigation
• Real-time reporting
• Automated updates
• Simple, map-based interfaces
• Minimal screen interaction for safer operation

The focus throughout the design process was and is simplicity. Rather than adding more tasks for drivers and supervisors, SmartSuite quietly handles much of the operational complexity, creating a smoother experience for everyone involved.

For drivers, it means less distraction and easier access to information. For supervisors and office teams, it means less time spent chasing updates, managing paperwork, or manually compiling data. Instead, teams can focus on improving services and responding proactively.

Customer Experience Beyond the Go-Live Date

At Integrated Skills, implementation is viewed as the beginning of the relationship. Our clients receive ongoing support designed to help them continue creating value from their systems long after go-live.

This includes:

• Direct access to experienced Implementation Consultants
• In-person onboarding and training
• Responsive support through email and messaging platforms
• Access to our dedicated support desk
• Continued collaboration as operational needs evolve

This approach helps ensure issues are resolved quickly while also building trusted, long-term working relationships - and clients are never left navigating operational challenges alone.

In Summary

As technology continues to evolve, the real value now lies in creating technology experiences that feel natural, supportive, and easy to use. Ultimately, successful software should not create more work for operational teams, it should quietly remove it.

We love that we’re leading the charge in the mindset shift. Yes, the software is great – it supports safe, legal handling in-cab, reduces workloads and improves services - but what really sets us apart is our genuine desire to support our clients.

Enough from us – we’ll hand over to a couple of our clients who have been kind enough to share their experiences:

“We felt supported and heard from day one as we were able to speak to Jonathan directly throughout. We can drop him a message and be confident of a response within the working day, with all of our ideas taken on board and put into future plans.”

“They were flexible in accommodating a few delays on our end, went the extra mile by meeting with us in person to train teams and solve problems, and are just generally great to work with.”

The post Supporting our Customers with Next-Gen UX appeared first on Integrated Skills.

At Integrated Skills, we believe that technology should not only improve performance but also support safe working. Since 2010, we have provided in-cab solutions for our clients, alongside clear, practical guidance on how to use them safely. As legislation and expectations evolve, we regularly update the guidance we provide.

This year we have updated our safe use guidance once again. This ensures our clients can continue to use in-cab technology with confidence, while keeping drivers, crews, and the public safe.

Putting Safety at the Centre of Technology

Modern waste services rely on in-cab systems. Drivers use them for navigation, service information, and reporting. At the same time, road safety laws have become more detailed. They now cover a wide range of device use, including screen interaction and accessing applications.

We see it as an opportunity. Tighter legislation drives better design, clearer processes, and safer outcomes. Our approach is simple: technology should support the driver, not distract them.

Supporting Clients with Clear, Up-to-Date Guidance

We work closely with our SmartSuite Mobile clients to ensure they have the right information to operate safely and compliantly. Our latest guidance reflects current UK legislation and government advice and has been developed with specialist legal input.

We focus on practical steps and clear advice that can be applied in real-world operations to:

• Keep drivers and crews safe
• Keep usage aligned with current regulations
• Allow our clients to use in-cab technology effectively and confidently

A Practical Approach to Safe Use

Safe use starts with understanding how technology fits into daily work. Our guidance encourages clients to carry out simple risk assessments. These look at:

• How the device is used during the working day
• Where it is positioned in the cab
• When interaction is required

From this, clear instructions can be set for drivers. For example, tasks such as entering data or using menus should be carried out when the vehicle is safely parked. This helps reduce distraction and supports safe driving at all times.

Designed Around the Driver

Technology is only effective if it works for the people using it, so SmartSuite has been designed around drivers and crews. The interface is simple and map-based, key information is clear and easy to follow and there is no unnecessary visual clutter.

Most importantly, it reduces the need for manual interaction. Drivers receive spoken prompts, such as: “Assisted collection at number 22.” This reduces the need to look at the screen, allowing more focus on the road and their surroundings.

Automatic updates, such as street completion, also remove the need for constant input. The system works in the background, so drivers can concentrate on their job.

Moving Towards ‘Minimal Touch’ Technology

A key part of our development focus is ‘minimal touch’ design. SmartSuite achieves this through:

• Voice-led prompts
• Automated updates
• Clear, intuitive layouts
• Simple drop-down response options in our 2-way messaging

This supports a safer working environment, allowing drivers to stay focused while the system handles the detail. It also makes the system easier to use, therefore requiring less training time with fewer errors and better outcomes.

Supporting Safe Positioning in the Cab

Safe use is not just about software itself, but also how devices are set up within the vehicle. Our guidance supports clients in positioning devices correctly so that they:

• Sit within the driver’s natural line of sight
• Do not block the view of the road
• Are accessible without requiring a change in driving position

Where needed, clients can also carry out ergonomic assessments to ensure the best setup for their vehicles.

Aligning with Legal Requirements

We ensure our guidance reflects current legal expectations, and UK law is clear. Drivers must remain in full control of the vehicle at all times, and not use handheld devices while driving.

Government guidance allows hands-free use, provided the driver is not distracted and the device does not block their view. Our role is to translate this into practical, easy-to-follow guidance for our clients.

Encouraging Driver Awareness

Safe use is a shared responsibility. Technology plays a key role, but driver awareness is also paramount. SmartSuite includes a “Driver Road Safety Warning” which drivers must acknowledge before starting work. This acts as a simple reminder at the start of each shift.

We also encourage clear communication and training. Drivers should understand when it is appropriate to interact with the system and when it is not, as well as how to follow company guidance. By combining technology with awareness, safe use becomes part of everyday behaviour.

A Safer Alternative to Paper-Based Systems

It is important to remember where the industry started. Before in-cab technology, drivers relied on paper maps and printed route sheets. These could be difficult to manage and often created distractions in the cab. In-cab systems have removed many of these risks.

As Stuart Henshaw, Business Development Director at Integrated Skills, explains:

“The benefits of in-cab technology in the waste collection industry have been huge. Paper maps and route sheets, which were a safety hazard around the cab in themselves, are a thing of the past. Drivers can now receive key service information spoken out, and a clear map-based interface means they can focus on safe driving and servicing.”

A Partnership Approach with Clients

We see safe use as a partnership. We provide the tools, the design, and the guidance, while our clients bring their operational knowledge and team awareness. Together, this creates a strong foundation for safe and effective use.

As legislation changes, we respond, and as technology evolves, we adapt. In-cab technology will continue to develop, and we expect future developments to include:

• Greater automation
• More advanced voice interaction
• Stronger links with back-office systems

Each of these will further reduce the need for manual input, with safety remaining front and centre. We will continue to review guidance, update our systems, and support our clients in meeting both operational and legal requirements.

Conclusion

Safe use of in-cab technology means creating a working environment where drivers can focus, crews can operate efficiently, and services can run smoothly. We design our solutions with all of this in mind. Through SmartSuite’s minimal touch approach, clear guidance, and ongoing support, we help our clients use technology safely and confidently.

As the industry moves forward, we will continue to evolve our solutions and guidance, and the development of a fully hands-free option is on the “horizon”. Keep an eye on our socials and website for future announcements.

The post Safe Use of In-Cab Technology: Designed for Safety, Built for Drivers appeared first on Integrated Skills.

In the fast-paced world of waste and recycling collection, technology is no longer just a supporting player; it’s now driving efficiency, sustainability, and accountability. Among the most transformative innovations is the deployment of in-cab tablets—a tool rapidly becoming indispensable in public sector waste management. These devices are bridging the gap between field operations and office management, empowering drivers, crews and supervisors, to deliver smarter, faster, and more reliable services.

This blog explores how in-cab tablets are reshaping waste and recycling collection in the public sector, offering benefits such as real-time data access, improved route optimization, enhanced communication, and increased safety.

The Public Sector Challenge: Evolving Expectations in Waste Collection

Public waste and recycling services face increasing demands for efficiency, transparency, and environmental responsibility. Cities and municipalities are under pressure to:

1. Increase efficiency: Reduce costs while maintaining or improving service quality.
2. Enhance transparency: Provide accountability to citizens regarding the handling and disposal of waste.
3. Adopt sustainable practices: Align with environmental regulations and reduce carbon footprints.
4. Leverage data: Use analytics to optimize operations and improve decision-making.

Traditional paper-based or radio-dependent systems struggle to meet these expectations. Communication breakdowns, inefficient routing, and lack of real-time oversight create gaps that hinder optimal service delivery.

Enter in-cab tablets—a technology solution tailored to meet the evolving needs of public sector waste management.

How In-Cab Tablets Work in Waste Management

An in-cab tablet is a robust, touchscreen device installed in waste collection vehicles, connected to a centralized system. These tablets serve as a command center for drivers, providing them with:

• Digital maps and optimized routes: Ensuring they follow the optimised routes.
• Real-time updates: Relaying dynamic changes, such as road closures or special collections.
• Two-way communication: Allowing direct interaction with supervisors or dispatch teams.
• Data collection tools: Logging key metrics like service completion, bin statuses, or anomalies.

This integration not only improves the drivers’ workflows but also enables management to monitor and adjust operations on the fly.

Key Benefits of In-Cab Tablets in Waste and Recycling Collection

1. Optimized Routing for Efficiency and Cost Savings

In-cab tablets equipped with advanced route optimization software can significantly reduce fuel consumption, CO2 output and time on the road. Unlike static route maps, tablets provide dynamic routing, recalculating paths in real-time based on traffic, weather, or unforeseen obstructions.

For example:

• Avoiding traffic jams: Tablets can reroute drivers to avoid delays, ensuring timely collections.
• Minimizing backtracking: With turn-by-turn directions, drivers avoid retracing routes, reducing mileage and wear-and-tear on vehicles.

In the long term, these efficiencies translate into lower operational costs and a smaller carbon footprint.

2. Enhanced Communication and Coordination

Gone are the days of relying solely on radio communication, which can be prone to misunderstandings and limited in scope. In-cab tablets enable real-time, two-way communication between drivers and dispatch teams.

• Instant updates: If a new service request arises, such as collecting missed bins or responding to a fly tip , the system can alert the driver immediately.
• Problem reporting: Drivers can log and share issues—such as blocked access or contaminated recycling bins—using the tablet interface.

This seamless communication helps crews respond faster and adapt to dynamic needs, reducing delays and improving overall service.

3. Data Collection and Reporting

One of the most powerful features of in-cab tablets is their ability to collect and transmit data in real time. Every aspect of a collection route, from time stamps to service completion status, is recorded and sent to a central database.

• Bin tracking: Tablets can log when a bin was serviced and note if it was improperly filled or inaccessible.
• Fuel usage monitoring: Integrated tracking helps cities manage fuel consumption and identify inefficiencies.
• Compliance reporting: Automated data collection ensures compliance with environmental and operational regulations without manual paperwork.

By harnessing this data, municipalities can generate detailed reports that demonstrate service performance and pinpoint areas for improvement.

4. Improving Driver Safety and Accountability

Waste collection is a demanding job, with drivers often working in challenging conditions. In-cab tablets play a critical role in ensuring their safety:

• Alerts and reminders: Tablets can provide drivers with alerts about safety protocols or hazardous weather conditions.
• Camera integration: Many RCVs have onboard camera systems that record incidents, promoting accountability and protecting drivers in case of disputes.

These features not only reduce the risk of accidents but also foster a culture of safety and responsibility.

5. Fostering Public Trust and Engagement

Citizens expect transparency and accountability from public services, especially in waste management. In-cab tablets help cities meet these expectations by enabling better communication with residents.

• Service notifications: Integration with public apps allows residents to receive alerts about delays, missed pickups, or special collection events.
• Proof of service: Tablets can log when and where collections occur, giving municipalities a way to verify completed services.
• Sustainability metrics: By analyzing data, municipalities can showcase their environmental progress, such as reductions in emissions or increases in recycling rates.

These capabilities not only improve service quality but also strengthen public confidence in waste management systems.

Overcoming Challenges with In-Cab Tablets

While the benefits are clear, implementing in-cab tablets comes with challenges. Public sector organizations must navigate:

1. Initial investment costs: Procuring devices and training staff requires upfront spending.
2. Change management: Drivers and crews may need time to adapt to the new technology.
3. Data security: Protecting sensitive information, such as service data and routing, is crucial.

To address these challenges, municipalities should partner with trusted vendors, prioritize user-friendly interfaces, and ensure robust cybersecurity measures are in place.

The Future of In-Cab Technology

As municipalities embrace smart infrastructure, in-cab tablets will likely evolve to include even more advanced features:

• AI-powered routing: Predictive algorithms could optimize routes based on historical patterns and environmental factors.
• IoT integration: Sensors in waste bins could alert drivers to fullness levels, further improving efficiency.
• Green fleet management: Tablets could support electric and hybrid vehicle operations, tracking charging needs and energy consumption.
• Citizen feedback loops: Residents could submit requests or report issues directly via integrated apps, streamlining communication between communities and waste services.

These advancements will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, making waste management & collection more sustainable, efficient, and citizen-focused.

Conclusion: A Cleaner, Smarter Future with In-Cab Tablets

The waste and recycling collection sector is at a turning point, with in-cab tablets paving the way for smarter, more efficient operations. For public sector organizations, these devices offer a clear path to meeting modern demands—streamlining workflows, reducing costs, and fostering transparency with citizens.

By embracing in-cab tablets, municipalities are not just improving waste management today; they’re laying the groundwork for a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand. As these tools continue to evolve, their impact will extend far beyond the cab, shaping cleaner and smarter communities for generations to come.

How is your public sector team leveraging technology to transform waste management? Share your experiences and insights — we’d love to hear from you.

The post The Role of In-Cab Tablets in Modern Waste and Recycling Collection Services appeared first on Integrated Skills.

Mobile software solutions for the municipal waste collection sector provide two main functions: navigation and service verification. Which is more useful will depend on local authority requirements, budgets and the areas served.

Here we’ll be discussing the effect of Simpler Recycling reforms and their bearing on your choice, exploring some the options available once the decision has been made, and discussing whether a choice needs to be made at all.

The Simpler Recycling Effect

The Simpler Recycling legislation laid out in October 2023 includes weekly kerbside food waste collections, as well as a unified set of rules for what residents, establishments and businesses can recycle at kerbside.

For local authorities, drivers and crew, this will most likely mean:

• Higher rates of contamination in bins
• New routes for drivers to learn
• New disposal sites to be reached
• Variable, unpredictable participation rates

Alongside continuing issues with funding, the municipal waste collection industry will be scrambling to tackle these new issues. Fleets not yet furnished with in-cab mobile software solutions are likely to struggle enormously.

How Can In-Cab Technology Help?

In-cab software can help to alleviate the usual problems experienced by crews, as well as arming them with the tools they need to face these new challenges head on. Residents can also benefit; receiving real-time updates regarding any service interruptions.

Benefit number one is service verification. Drivers and crew can report any issues with collections in real time, feeding that information back to staff who can inform affected residents. This is cost-effective, accurate solution that allows all information to be collected during the driver’s round.

Exception reporting is another valuable tool. This allows drivers to alert support staff if a bin can’t be collected due to contamination, the resident forgetting to leave it on the kerb or for any other reason. Again, this information can then be used to alert residents as well as the contact centre team who can deal with resident enquires at first point of contact.

Navigation is key, but it will become even more important as routes evolve to enable the new requirements. In-cab route guidance minimises errors, corrects missteps quickly and allows for easy direction to new disposal sites. Many software options also allow for driver alerts- making them aware of assisted collections, tricky parking exceptions and previously overlooked bins.

Safety is also enhanced by in-cab systems. Waste collection can be high-risk, with extra precautions needed around schools and public buildings, and risky infrastructure such as blind corners and low bridges posing a risk to crews and vehicles. Warnings can be incorporated into the route maps, making the route far safer for all involved.

Navigation vs Service Verification

Many of the software solutions on the market offer one or the other or are heavily weighted to one side. Choosing the right option for your fleet will come down to the needs of your drivers, crew and residents.

Navigation software can reduce errors, minimise fuel costs and maximise output. If you’re experiencing issues with accuracy and efficiency, this may be your go-to. Exception reporting is also invaluable in terms of correcting errors and keeping residents informed.

In-cab service verification results in more accurate data reporting, and a better service for your residents. This is especially key for those paying directly for your services. Garden waste collections and trade waste clients likely expect a certain level of service. That service could be greatly improved by real-time communication regarding any missed collections due to road closures, mechanical failures or contamination issues. If issues aren’t dealt with appropriately, business could easily take their trade contracts elsewhere.

Our Solution: SmartSuite Waste Management Software

Thankfully, we’ve created a software “all-rounder”. Our SmartSuite Mobile software gives you navigation, exception reporting and service verification, all in one, in-cab solution.

SmartSuite Mobile is one arm of our over-arching SmartSuite offering which enables local authorities to manage their:

• Waste
• Recycling
• Street cleansing
• Gully emptying
• Winter maintenance
• Any related services

SmartSuite acts as the “single source of truth”, allowing the efficient, safe and resilient management of the entire system. All services are managed from a single, map-based platform that enables teams to track day-to-day activities in real time. They can make instant and effective operational decisions, as well as viewing service history.

Our solutions have a positive impact authority-wide, enabling a better working life and real-world impact for:

• Drivers and crews
• Supervisors
• Service/Ops/Transport Managers
• Performance Managers
• CRM Teams
• Digital Transformation Leaders
• Recycling Officers
• Net Zero Action Plan Teams
• Elected Members
• IT and Security
• Trade Waste Officers
• Finance Directors
• Residents

A client of ours, Mark Mohun, Business Analyst at Newcastle City Council, gave us his feedback regarding ISL’s in-cab solutions:

“We can send out any driver on any route and know that it is being covered properly, and actually have the system tell us what the status is of any particular route. If a section is missed the driver is guided back to complete it unless he inputs data explaining why it is not possible to cover that section. We can also update the routes as the road system changes and as our winter equipment profile changes.”

Conclusion

Depending on your requirements, service verification maybe more important than navigation, or vice-versa. However, when you have a product like SmartSuite Mobile, you don’t need to make that choice – you get the best of both in a unified, in-cab solution.

If you’d like to hear more about the solutions we offer, either get in touch or come and have a chat with us in person. We’re exhibiting at the Resource and Waste Management Expo in September and we’d love to chat things over.

The post Mobile Solutions: Navigation vs Service Verification appeared first on Integrated Skills.

Key things to consider when deploying in-cab navigation solutions for waste & recycling collection operations

In-Cab technologies bring a whole host of benefits to waste collection services. When deployed in the right way, these technologies can revolutionise the way these services operate. Alongside reducing paperwork and other manual procedures for operatives, the information gathered from in-cab solutions can provide real insight into waste collection services and greatly improve efficiency.

As with all projects, the success of in-cab rollouts is dependent on a number of factors. Below are the key considerations that successful implementations take into account:

• Establish a dedicated in-cab solution team – Define roles and responsibilities and develop a realistic project timeline. The team should include management, operational and technical staff and measures should be put in place to maintain regular and ongoing communication between team members

• Champion the Solution - Identify key staff who will act as champions for the solution. These members of staff will assist with implementation and the training of users and will be the bridge between end users and the software providers

• Prepare your data – Spend time making sure your data is checked and finalised in advance of its introduction to the in-cab solution. Inaccuracies in data can be mistakenly interpreted as shortfalls of new in-cab technologies, affecting the success of their introduction

• Map out the flow of information – Understand what data you would like to gather using the technology and how you would like this information to move between different parts of your organisation. Discussions should bring together operational and technical staff to plan how the data can benefit everyone

• Consider hardware lead times and installation timeframes - Hardware orders can have long lead times so ensure that this is considered in project timelines. For service continuity, try and coordinate installations around operational hours and ensure that hardware is installed and signed off prior to user training

• Be aware of in-cab legalities - Carry out vehicle audits to ensure that hardware is positioned safely and is installed in accordance with health and safety guidance. The position of the hardware should be agreed and signed off by both operatives and management prior to going live. Users should be made aware of the difference between the use of in-cab satellite navigation devices and mobile devices

• Manage change with ongoing communication – Early communication with staff helps to convey the background of why in-cab technology is being introduced, provide staff with the opportunity to ask questions and allows time to address any concerns raised. This communication should be ongoing to help iron out any issues and maintain the use of the solution

• Promote the benefits – Emphasise that the technology is being implemented to reduce work rather than to add to this, providing concrete examples of how time is saved (for example through driver reporting). Help staff to understand that the solution is a tool to help rather than hinder them

• Provide good training – Where possible, plan to provide user training as close to the rollout as possible, keeping this fresh in users’ minds. Ideally provide one-on-one training in the cab for users to grasp the application. Provide ongoing training where needed and communicate any new features to users. Ensure that new users are brought up to speed with full training

• Start simple – A new technology may be overwhelming at first. Where possible, ease in the technology slowly, for example saving more complex functionality until later once operatives have got a firm grasp of how it works

• Don’t change everything at once – If, for example, new routes are being introduced to a service, it is best to avoid introducing these at the same time as the new technology. Allow time for the technology to bed in with existing routes before rolling out the new routes. This way, the technology will be met with far less resistance

• Monitor in the early stages – Users may avoid using the solution if they are struggling with certain functionality. Catch this early by monitoring use and checking in with staff who may require further assistance

• Harness the data – Monitor and analyse any data you may be receiving to build up ‘service intelligence’. Feed information provided by the solution back to your operational data for continuous improvement. Where possible, communicate to operatives how the data they are collecting is being used across the service

Once in-cab solutions have been successfully embedded into organisations they can very quickly become an integral part of day-to-day operations. Information that was previously recorded on paper or communicated via telephone can be relayed to the back office in real time, improving service visibility and allowing operatives to spend more time on the task in hand.

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There are a range of in-cab solutions on the market which aim to assist a client to manage the performance of their service. From simple telematics to on-board, real time cameras the list of available functionality can be mind boggling. The key when adopting such technology is to fully understand the business requirements of the service in question, and identifying which in-cab technology provides the greatest return on investment.

Insurance Premiums

Simple vehicle tracking has been a popular approach in the past, and for many organisations this is the starting point for on-board technologies. Vehicle tracking salesman would often talk about ‘performance’ as part of their sales pitch but, apart from a live view or archived GPS track of a vehicle path, this is not a very effective way of measuring or managing performance. The fact that a vehicle was driven down a certain road doesn’t necessarily mean the service was executed. Vehicle tracking in its simplest form records vehicle locations only and can be mainly used by clients to fight dubious insurance claims and as a theft alert system (when geofences are created which alerts users that a vehicle has moved across a specific map boundary, i.e., a depot). Some insurance companies offer minimal reductions in insurance premiums if certain vehicle tracking functionality is fitted onto vehicles.

Vehicle and Driver Performance

More recently technology focusses on direct inputs recorded by on-board technology known as “telematics” that can record vehicle ‘events’. These events can range from bin lifts on a waste collection vehicle through to temperature on a refrigerated lorry. In recent years there has been a greater focus on driver behaviour - harsh braking, excessive revving and idling, etc. Much of this data can be viewed in real time by the depot though most is used historically to improve driver behaviour in an attempt to reduce fuel and remain compliant with road laws. Just like vehicle tracking, telematics has very little to do with the actual execution of the service…. Just how the person and vehicle got to the location rather than what was said and done at the location!

Beyond the Basics – Service Performance

The most important factors when providing location based services can be split into two: (A) efficient route planning and route optimisation and (B) the management of the daily performance. When trying to focus on the big question “how is my service performing”, clients need to hone down the technology to gather inputs on the point in time when the service is actually delivered. So for waste collection, the point at which the bin is pulled from the roadside to the bin lift, for mail delivery the point at which the delivery is made, for meter reading the point at which the meter is read, for street cleansing the point at which the brushes are lowered by the vehicle. For each of these examples the point at which the service requirement is executed is different and therefore the Service Performance Technology is different.
For meter reading there is little point in vehicle tracking the van when the handheld unit can log the exact location at the precise point a meter is read. The same is true of floral, milk, parcel and mail delivery. With handheld units, users can log a lot more than just service execution but collect signatures, survey responses, photographs, etc. Creating a track of serviced points rather than a track of movement between service locations can be more important, and telling,

Vehicle Based Service Provision

For street sweepers why track the entire route when the service only starts and stops when the brushed are down? With telematics the brushed ‘up/down’ can be easily monitored together with the exact location. In the waste collection sector, unless each bin has an RFID tag fitted, there is no 100% guaranteed method for associating a bin with a household: The best that can be achieved is an approximation based on clever combination of GPS and mapping to conduct a proximity calculation.

Very few companies provide a fully integrated mobile service performance management system, that include features of telematics, vehicle tracking and handheld functionality. And almost non include optimised routes as part of the mobile solution. It possible however for optimised routes to be exported direct to in cab and handheld technology (that includes vehicles Sat-Navs). More enhanced in cab & handheld units can also enable users to report on the service execution (“bin not presented”, “client not at home”, “recycling bin contaminated”– “street blocked – no service provided”) and also service completion (job complete, street complete, etc.) when following an optimised route.

System Integration

It is one thing to collect service data in the field, but another issue entirely when collating this data to be used in service management. Dependent on the nature of the service clients have to decide whether the data must be communication in near real time, or is the value only in reviewing this data as a trend over time? As a general rule of thumb, solutions that manage data that must be viewed in near real time are more expensive as the communication cost is higher as is the processing speed required in the ‘back office’ system.

Typically, for large organisations, the data collection activity may involve different types of hardware that may require a combination of technologies, i.e., iOS, Windows, Android. Also there may already exist a CRM system so an integration of technologies is required, perhaps via APIs. Then there is the reporting issue – how best to present all this incoming data, in a format that users can interpret simply to make decisions.

There are a range of in-cab solutions on the market which aim to assist a client to manage the performance of their service, and choosing the correct one is far more complicated that it first seems. The key is to fully understand the business requirements of the service in question, identifying at which point in the process the service execution occurs with the client, and why and how this is monitored.

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