Why Fleet Management Software is Better Than ERP (And What It’s Costing You Not to Switch)
This article is based on a recent episode of The Fleet Success Show podcast. Watch the episode below:
Fleet managers are increasingly under pressure to justify budgets, minimize downtime, and improve technician efficiency. Yet many are stuck using ERP or EAM systems to run their operations, tools never designed for fleets in the first place. The result? Frustration, inefficiency, and millions of wasted dollars.
The Problem with ERPs and EAMs
While ERPs excel at managing financials and fixed assets, fleets are moving assets. Vehicles require service schedules, downtime tracking, and real-time inventory management. ERPs and EAMs often treat vehicles like buildings or desks. That doesn’t work.
The 40-Click Work Order
As Steve Saltzgiver noted, one EAM required 40 clicks to open a single work order! Not only is that a nightmare for technicians, but it also reduces wrench time and increases administrative overhead.
What FMIS Does Differently
Fleet management software like RTA Fleet is purpose-built. With tools for:
- Preventive Maintenance Scheduling
- Work Order Quality Control
- Technician Productivity Tracking
- Parts and Inventory Management
- Stakeholder Satisfaction Surveys (CSAT)
...it helps you do the work, not just track that it was done.
The Real Cost of Using the Wrong System
Companies have spent millions trying to retrofit ERPs for fleet. Two Fortune 500 firms wasted $15M before abandoning the effort. Instead of spending money like this, find a fleet management software that works with your workflows and helps you drive real results with your fleet.
Integrate, Don’t Compromise
Need your data in the ERP for your finance team? Great. RTA Fleet and other FMIS platforms offer open APIs to get the job done. But stop sacrificing fleet efficiency just to satisfy IT.
What’s in it for Me?
For fleet managers, switching to an FMIS means:
- Easier work order management
- Faster PM turnaround
- Clearer reporting and analytics
- Happier technicians and reduced burnout
- Less downtime, more wrench time
And with a modern fleet management software like RTA Fleet, you’ll receive the benefits of a system that was built by fleet managers for fleet managers and technicians, and fleet experts you can lean on to help you manage your fleet with confidence.
Conclusion:
If you’re stuck in an ERP or getting pressured to move into one, now’s the time to push back. And if leadership needs convincing, bring in an independent third party to evaluate both sides. As Marc and Steve put it, it’s not about buying our software, it’s about not settling for the wrong one.