In the waste management industry, finding and keeping great talent while keeping things running smoothly is a big challenge. In-cab and on-board waste truck technology offers a powerful solution to these issues, helping haulers streamline their processes, boost job satisfaction, and ramp up productivity. 

Sometimes, drivers can be resistant to change and hesitant to adopt new tech. They might worry about privacy, fear being constantly monitored, or feel uneasy about learning new systems. Some might even be concerned that in-cab technology could complicate their routine or make their jobs more difficult. Tackling these concerns is key to getting everyone on board and making sure the new tools work well, further reinforced by the potential savings of both time and money through the capabilities of the installed in-cab technology.

Eight Ways to Boost Driver Adoption of In-Cab Technology

1. Helping Drivers Feel Heard

In-cab and on-board tools, like those from Routeware, give drivers a voice. By using tablets  and on-board cameras, drivers can capture real-time data, ensuring their concerns and efforts are recognized and valued. This transparency helps drivers feel more appreciated and reduces the frustration of being seen in a negative light.

2. Onboarding and Training

In-cab technology significantly reduces the time required for training new drivers. What used to take three months can now be accomplished in just two weeks. With intuitive tools and systems, new drivers can quickly learn their routes and operate independently, easing the onboarding process and helping drivers to succeed.

3. Support and Coaching

Telematics and In-Cab solutions provide real-time data that supports drivers and allows for personalized coaching. Supervisors can address issues proactively, ensuring that drivers know they are not being constantly monitored but are helped when needed. This approach fosters a positive work environment and helps in retaining staff.

4. Sense of Ownership and Pride

Drivers who use service confirmation tools take greater personal ownership of their routes and customers. They go the extra mile for  their customers and take pride in their work, seeing the value of their effort is being recorded and knowing they have the resources to deliver excellent service consistently.

5. Decreased Stress

Real-time service data and video eliminates conflicting accounts of events by providing a common set of facts. Drivers can confidently share accurate information with supervisors and customers, reducing misunderstandings and arguments. This clarity helps maintain a more positive and productive work environment. It can also significantly boost the speed and accuracy of tasks that a driver must undertake, like replacing the standard pen-and-paper inspection with an electronic driver vehicle inspection report.

6. Covering Absences

In-Cab technology systems make it easier to manage driver absences and truck downtimes. By quickly reassigning routes and trucks, supervisors can keep operations running smoothly, reducing the unknowns and allowing staff to focus on their tasks without unnecessary disruptions.

7. Managing Workloads

In-Cab and on-board technology reduces the need for go-backs and helps manage workload distribution more effectively. With clear and organized helper routes, even new drivers can handle complex tasks efficiently, minimizing missed collections and ensuring reliable service.

8. Driver Engagement in Route Design

Route planning and optimization tools allow drivers to provide feedback on schedules and routes. This collaboration helps create routes that work in the real-world and significantly increases driver buy-in. Engaging drivers in the route design process enhances their investment in the job and supports retention.

Conclusion

Implementing in-cab and on-board technology in waste management operations offers numerous benefits, from improving driver satisfaction to increasing operational efficiency. By getting driver buy-in for these new tools, both private haulers and municipalities can attract and keep talent more effectively while building a resilient and productive team.

For more information on how Routeware can help your organization, book a demo with a representative and see what Routeware’s waste management technology can do for your business.