The service prioritises a ‘minimum input, maximum output’ approach by partnering with information providers, including global vehicle data company cap hpi, to automatically complete processes using single pieces of data.
For example, entering a registration number is enough to obtain a wide range of vehicle information, from make and model through to servicing intervals and vehicle values. MoT checks or driving licence checks can also be automated.
The system has been designed with non-technical users in mind and supports smartphone access, with an iOS and Android app launching in the second quarter of 2018.
This will mean that drivers can receive instant alerts for critical issues, such as reminders for vehicle safety checks, links to agree to fleet policies or forms to record vehicle expenses, including fuel costs.
Future developments for ODO include an integrated telematics service, in partnership with Transpoco’s Synx, while a system to provide total cost of ownership data that can guide decision-making is also being developed.
ODO is offered as a Software as a Service (SaaS) product that is accessed online through the Oracle Cloud, allowing fleets to subscribe for a small monthly fee from around £2 a unit per month to access the system on any device, rather than paying for installation of software.
It has been developed by Drive Software Solutions, the global fleet technology company whose Drive fleet management and leasing system is used by major organisations around the world, including Arval and TCH Leasing.
Speaking at ODO’s official launch to industry leaders, general manager Gordon Lyster said: “ODO addresses the issues of managing fleets which many small businesses struggle with day-to-day.
“It helps managers track costs, vehicle usage levels, maintenance and servicing records, run driver licence checks and more.
“The intelligence that ODO provides helps fleets stay the right side of the law when it comes to compliance and, crucially for firms’ bottom lines, it will mean that they have a way to keep costs down. It will help managers in SMEs to sleep at night.”
The UK SME market is estimated to account for more than 5.2 million businesses, with the majority operating vehicles.
Industry leaders can hear Gordon Lyster provide insights on the ODO platform at the International Auto Finance Network conference during a session titled ‘How will you dominate the next generation digital fleet management market?’.
The conference takes place at the London Hilton Tower Bridge on Friday, January 26.
