Looking for a GPS device? 5 tips to shop smarter
Jun
With a lot of different options, different makes and models, it can be confusing for the average GPS shopper. How do I know what’s right for me? How can I make sure I don’t pay too much or get a GPS system that is difficult to use or doesn’t do what I need it to do?
When faced with the job of purchasing a GPS system, most people would turn to Google. But what starts as a simple Google search to find the right GPS system can quickly become a nightmarish exercise in wading through pages of detail, reviews, product specifications and technical jargon.
How can you simplify the process of finding the right GPS system?
Here are 5 simple steps to finding the right device.
1 – Write down your requirements
Before you go anywhere near the internet, first sit down and list what your needs are. Is it for a fleet of vehicles? Then maybe fleet management software is the best option. What are the major benefits you want from a GPS unit – efficient driving around town, driving interstate or knowing where your nearest Starbucks is? Is screen size important? Do you only need turn-by-turn directions or are you after advanced features such as vehicle tracking, real-time alerts, which are common requests for parents of teenage children who use the family car? Will you be using it for your work, perhaps with multiple stops throughout the day? Then maybe a work order management tool like Telogis® Mobile™ is a more productive option.
Another thing to consider is usability. Because GPS devices are often used whilst driving, they need to be extremely intuitive and easy to use. It might actually be a good idea to sacrifice unnecessary features in favor of a device that is less frustrating to use. Check a popular GPS review site for feedback from existing users to learn more about a device’s usability.
2 – Know your price range
What you can spend on GPS devices can vary wildly, not only between retailers but also brands. However don’t fall into the trap of buying on purchase price only, for two important reasons. Firstly, a one-off purchase price may only be the tip of the iceberg. Your GPS device may require you to purchase map downloads or updates, or there may be monthly charges for connected devices that offer advanced features such as kid tracking or breakdown alerts. Secondly, GPS devices should be viewed as an investment, a tool that can actually save you money, helping you drive more economically. In fact, fleet managers can use ROI calculators to work out to a relatively accurate degree, how much they can actually save by purchasing GPS fleet tracking.
3 – Find the best price
One way you can use the internet to your advantage when shopping for a GPS device is by making sure you get the best deal. Several websites offer price comparison services on different types of GPS units, with other sites, like Comet, offering online shoppers voucher discounts on a huge range of products.
4 – Ask questions
If you can speak to a salesperson about the product, make sure you take the time to double-check that the device matches your list of requirements. Sometimes your own internet research may have relied on faulty information, or you’ve failed to overlook something important, like if the device can be used in your part of the world. Most countries have consumer laws that require if you specify a particular requirement and it turns out the device is not fit for that need, then you are entitled to return the device.
5 – Get to know your device
After you’ve purchased your GPS device, take the time to read the manual and learn the best way to operate it, and how to take advantage of any special features it has. Unfortunately many users don’t do this, complaining about missing features that unbeknown to them actually did exist in the product! Be prepared to adapt your driving habits, perhaps taking the time to set your GPS device before taking off on a journey rather than trying to configure it while driving. Find out if the manufacturer has a user’s forum where you can learn from others and share your experiences, including discovering hints and tips on getting the most from your new GPS system.
Buying a GPS device can initially appear overwhelming, and even complicated, but by following these five simple steps you can make sure you get the right device at the right price.
