The simple answer to ‘What is Geo Tracking?’
Geo Tracking, also known as geographical tracking, refers to finding the geographical location of someone or something at a certain point in time. This can be achieved in a lot of different ways –and that’s where the technical details come in.
Geo Tracking technology
While the main technology used for geo tracking is GPS (Global Positioning System), other technologies are used including BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi and network-based technologies like LoRaWAN and Sigfox. It’s important to note that each of these options has different pros and cons, so the right solution for you will depend on your situation.
GPS solutions
GPS is the best solution for outdoor accuracywhen energy consumption is not an issue. This is the reason why almost every new car has a built-in GPS system. However, GPS systems have some limitations,for example, it’s not easy for employers to track their technicians as they go from job to job. To do this, you’ll need a different kind of GPS system thatincorporates a software system.
Network-based solutions
If you prefer to use battery power and positioning accuracy is not the most important factor, the best solution is often a network-based option such as LoRaWAN or Sigfox. These solutions have an extremely low energy consumption, maximising the lifespan of their battery, plus, depending on the coverage of your local provider, they can be used both indoor and outdoor.
BLE or Wi-Fi solutions
Technology like BLE or Wi-Fi is interesting for tracking assets indoors, depending on your needs and infrastructure capabilities.
How to choose the right solution
Before you choose a geo-tracking solution, it’s important to ask yourself some questions, starting with: who is going to use it? What does it need to do? When do you want to use it? Why do you want to use it? What data do you need to get? And, how do you want it to work?
The answers might surprise you and point you in unexpected directions. While it’s possible that one of the solutions above would perfectly fit your situation, it’s also possible that a combination of solutions would be better. For example, using GPS for outdoor tracking in combination with BLE or Wi-Fi for indoor tracking.
Geo tracking from Suivo
Suivo has the expertise and knowledge to support all these technologies, including combinations of them. Our experienced team is ready to help you find the right solution for your situation. Contact us to find out how we can deliver the geo tracking solution you need.