Fleet
Incus5 vs ERP-Bundled Telematics: Convenient Isn't the Same as Complete
Many rental ERPs now offer telematics as an add-on or a built-in module. For a fleet that is mostly one brand of device, that can be enough. For a mixed fleet, the limits show up quickly.
Where ERP-bundled telematics works
- One vendor to deal with.
- Telematics data sits next to contracts and billing.
- Simple to start if your fleet uses the devices the ERP supports.
Where it falls short for mixed fleets
- Device choice. The ERP vendor decides which devices and OEMs are supported.
- Data depth. Telematics is not the ERP's core product, so the data available may be limited.
- Lock-in. Changing ERP vendors can mean changing telematics.
- Untracked machines. Equipment with no device may not fit the model.
How a device-agnostic platform differs
It sits next to your ERP rather than inside it. It reads from any telematics source and from your ERP, and it keeps working if you change either one.
Side by side
- Device support: ERP-bundled is limited to what the ERP vendor supports. A device-agnostic platform covers many vendors.
- Swapping the ERP: ERP-bundled may need rework. A device-agnostic platform stays in place.
- Machines with no telematics: varies for ERP-bundled. Included in a device-agnostic platform.
Where Incus5 fits
Incus5 connects 51+ telematics, OEM and ERP systems and works alongside your rental system. See the integrations directory for supported ERPs.
Key takeaways
- ERP-bundled telematics is simple when your devices match what the ERP supports.
- For mixed fleets, the ERP vendor decides device support and data depth.
- A device-agnostic platform works alongside the ERP and survives a change of either.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use my ERP's telematics module?
If most of your fleet uses devices your ERP supports and you do not plan to change systems, it can be enough. For mixed fleets, check which devices it supports and how deep the data goes.
Can a fleet data platform work with my ERP?
Yes. A device-agnostic platform connects to ERP systems and reads from them rather than replacing them.
What happens if I change ERP vendors?
With ERP-bundled telematics you may have to rebuild the integration. With a device-agnostic platform, the telematics connections stay in place.