Sept/Oct 2003

When telematics users report significant savings in mobile workers' wages, how do these savings come about? A strong clue is offered by new research from telematics specialist Minorplanet, which says mobile staff are claiming pay worth £1.1 billion a year for hours not actually worked.

The company points out that such workers typically claim only "an extra hour or two per week", usually spread out over several days to hide the amount. While this is often considered a perk of the job, Minorplanet says it is akin to theft. Monitoring their comings and goings more closely can clearly reduce the amount.

The company has examined data from some of the 4,000 businesses using its system, and points out that up to 4 per cent staff are actually inclined to understate their wage entitlement and claim less than they are due ­ a situation which it says its system also picks up.

Minorplanet maintains that monitoring hours worked need not be seen in a negative way by staff. The savings can often be channelled into increased commission, higher basic salaries and extra incentives, giving the employee a better working environment, the company says.