Rocky Mountain Tracking

By Greg Bartlett

When it comes to truancy, there’s at least one town in Texas that’s taking matters into its own hands. High school students who deliberately miss class in Bryan, Texas will be given hand-held GPS trackers to encourage them to return to school. Brazos County Justice of the Peace Tommy Munoz says that this measure will show students that breaking laws—even small ones—has consequences. By implementing this “Attendance Improvement Management” (AIM, for short), Munoz hopes to deter kids from repeatedly ignoring truancy regulations, which can result in more severe punishments like mandatory ankle bracelet GPS trackers or even a trip to juvenile court.

GPS & Truancy

County judges often have a great deal of latitude in assigning punishments or behavior improvement programs to kids who commit lesser offences. The law allows a judge some flexibility to determine what may or may not encourage someone to get back on track. Many view GPS trackers as a simple preventative measure, and in the case of this town, the devices are small enough to be placed in a book bag alongside a cell phone. Munoz ruled out ankle bracelet GPS trackers since he didn’t want the program to seem like a humiliating, kiddie version of parole.

But for a problem such as truancy, technology can never be the full solution. Munoz also requires that repeat offenders attend counseling sessions with professionals who want to explain to the kids the benefits of staying in school. Parents will be involved in the program, providing their kids the GPS trackers in the morning and checking them in at night. Munoz understands that parental involvement is the most important factor. Previously he has addressed minor offenses by requiring students to attend a day of class along with a parent. The judge is known statewide for his creative problem solving.

Thankfully, Munoz’s use of GPS trackers is thoughtful and not draconian. Other states in previous years have attempted to pass laws requiring school-wide use of the devices. In the United Kingdom, a uniform company called Trutex has sold to some private schools uniforms that are already embedded with GPS trackers. In these—admittedly exclusive—academies every student is tracked at all times, regardless of his or her disciplinary record. By contrast, the students of Bryan County have much less supervision to worry about. With currently a 97% attendance rate, it looks like the system may be working.

By Greg Bartlett

Another name for a tracking key is a vehicle tracking system. This little piece of technology enables you to know where a specific vehicle is at all times, and is accurate by up to 2.5 meters. Although you may not realize how this can be important, it has many uses both for a business and for the ordinary person. Tracking keys on vehicles have become increasingly important, as well-known people travel around the world with the threat of terrorism ever eminent, friends and family travel further with a greater potential of getting lost, and bigger and better vehicles getting desired by other people and then stolen.

The Tracking Key

GPS tracking has progressed greatly throughout the last decade. Although used for a variety of reasons, some good and some bad, GPS technology is an area of science that you should understand. GPS systems work in a relatively easy to understand manner. First of all, you need a device that connects onto a person or object, whether on the underside of a car or in the pocket of an individual. That object, when turned on, transmits certain waves to a set of satellites that are located in outer space. These satellites help a central computer system to know the exact location of this GPS system, as well as the distance traveled, the speed, and a variety of other tidbits of information, depending on the system. This central computer system is monitored by technicians that record the information and then pass it on to the individuals that pay for the tracking device.

A recent use of a GPS tracking key has been to monitor the vehicles that are transporting criminals to and from court. This use has become quite common as some individuals will try any means possible to escape the jail sentence that awaits them. The GPS system is a device that can be easily hidden in any place on the car and then keep track of the occupants within the car. Any stops, quick changes in speed, or delays can be monitored and referred back to the central computer system.

A tracking key may be just the thing that you need to give you peace of mind over your vehicle. This tiny device is very cheap and does not require a comprehensive knowledge of how it works. Try using this system for a short period of time and you’ll be hooked.

By Greg Bartlett

Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling of knowing you’ve got an appointment to keep and you’ve missed your ride? People who rely on public transport options such as buses have experienced that feeling all too often due to buses not keeping reliable schedules. One day the bus might arrive (and leave) ten minutes early, while the next day it keeps you waiting five to ten minutes longer than expected. Either way, the unpredictable schedule could make you late for work or cause you to miss an important meeting altogether. As cities try to tackle the growing problem, some are turning to GPS vehicle tracking for help.

GPS & Public Transportation

GPS vehicle tracking allows managers to monitor the movement of fleet vehicles such as city buses from a remote location. A transmitter placed on the vehicle sends signals to a computer, reporting such information as location, speed, duration of stops, and fuel usage. The information gathered enables stricter monitoring of schedules for each individual driver and encourages more precise timing for stops. It also allows location information to be tracked on a website so that transit riders can check to see where the bus is before they head for the bus stop. Sometimes a traffic jam or an accident makes a late stop unavoidable, but with GPS vehicle tracking, passengers will know to plan for the change and can avoid standing in the rain or cold weather while waiting for the bus.

Cities such as Asheville, NC are considering implementing the GPS vehicle tracking technology to improve the overall image of the bus system as well as to better serve their passengers. As more businesses and individuals desire to “go green,” more people may begin taking advantage of public transportation to reduce emissions, a decision which makes reliability an even greater responsibility for city bus systems. People shouldn’t have to make the choice between kindness to the environment and reliable transportation. With the help of GPS vehicle tracking, cities can serve their citizens by giving them the opportunity to take advantage of a reliable transit system that reduces the number of cars on the road.

We’ve all experienced the frustration of being stuck in a traffic jam when you’ve got an appointment to keep. Next time you find yourself stopped in traffic on the way to work, consider whether it might be worth the reduced hassle and reduced emissions to get up a few minutes earlier and catch the bus.

By Harriette Halepis

As soon as the first GPS tracker hit the shelves parents began tracking their children. Some parents simply wanted peace of mind that a child would not be abducted walking home from school, while other parents used the devices as a means of “technological parenting.”

GPS & Children

While many people argue that tracking a child is an invasion of that child’s privacy, it should be noted that many children have been saved thanks to GPS trackers. When a child is tracked via GPS, police can locate that child following abduction. Contrastingly, children who are not equipped with GPS trackers have very little hope of being found.

Still, many people wonder if attaching a GPS tracker to a child is akin to spying on children. In one way, parents who use GPS trackers are spying on their children - but, is this such a bad thing? Children under the age of 18 are generally gullible, innocent, and entirely trusting, which is why it’s relatively easy for a kidnapper to coax a child into a vehicle or away from other children.

When parents are keeping a watchful eye on children, the likelihood that a kidnapper will be able to abduct a child is lowered. Of course, kidnapping is still possible, but parents can quickly pinpoint the exact location of a kidnapper with the help of a GPS.

Some will argue that a parent/child relationship should be built upon trust, but at what age? While parents may want teenagers to trust them, far too many teens have run away from home never to be seen from again. Would these teens have been returned to their parents if they were wearing GPS tracking devices at the time they decided to run away?

On the flip side, there’s no doubt that some overprotective parents may attempt to track a child’s every move out of sheer anxiety. Likewise, some parents may rely too heavily upon GPS trackers to monitor children without building a relationship with children. However, both of these scenarios are extreme, and, therefore, only apply to a select group of people.

Another question that has been raised frequently is whether or not children have any real privacy rights. After all, how can a parent expect to protect a child if they are unaware of a child’s actions? Children who are granted too much privacy often wind up in troublesome situations. In the end, there is no clear cut answer to the question: is tracking your children an invasion of privacy?

By Greg Bartlett

GPS tracking is a completely new world of exploration. Although new discoveries are being made every day, there are always new types of changes that can be ventured into. GPS technology can be used to track almost any type of object, as long as it moves, to almost any type of environment that it goes to. Wildlife environmentalists use it to track birds and fish, businesses use it for vehicles and packages, and people use it to track their spouses and children. Anything that you esteem to be of value can be tracked using a satellite tracking device, and almost anyone that is interested can use them.

Satellite & Tracking

GPS technology is an intricate network of three simple objects. First, you need a small box or satellite tracking device. This device is the moveable piece that can be placed on any object of interest. Next, you need a series of satellites that are strategically located in outer space. These satellites receive the waves that are transmitted from the satellite tracking device and pass them on to a central computer system. The satellites are useful to not only pinpoint the location of an object, but also to tell how fast the object is moving, where the object has stopped, and even the height or depth of an object. There are a large number of variables, depending on the tracking device used. Finally, the central computers record the information received from the satellites and pass it on to the necessary places.

Many people don’t take the time to think how a satellite tracking device could benefit them, but there are a number of ways. The most popular way currently is to tell you which direction you need to go in order to get to the location you desire. This is the form of tracking device that most people recognize as a GPS and that is best understood by most people. These GPS devices can range from very simple to very complex, depending on the functions and price of the machine. These have been used to find people that are lost, to help police know the speed and location of an escaping vehicle, or even to figure out crime scenes when an individual is in an absurd location. GPS tracking devices are very useful and may be quite beneficial to you specifically. Check to see what options might fit your personality best.

by James Neely, freelance writer: click | HERE | to check out GPS products from Rocky Mountain Tracking

It has been identified as one of the best applications for GPS Tracking among all businesses.  We are speaking of fleet management operations.  Any business in which you have multiple assets on the streets at the same time screams for a system that affords the control and management of a GPS system.

GPS & Fleet Operations

Here are the best fleet management tips that involve implementing GPS Tracking into your operations:

Safe Drivers

Good drivers are hard to find.  And, even when they are employed, it is only human nature to take advantage (even just a little bit) of the rules and laws by cutting corners just to get the job done quicker.  With GPS Tracking, drivers are held accountable in a by closer monitoring.  It is no doubt that when people are being watched, they change their behavior.  Fleet drivers are no different.

Safe Driving

Speeding, unsafe lane changes, lack of signaling, and other infractions of posted traffic laws gets drivers in trouble, and puts your business at risk.  And, they put the public in danger as well.  These types of activities need to be addressed and monitored daily.  Notifying your employees of the existence of GPS Tracking devices is a judgment call, but once they find out that they exist, it will affect how their performance and the acts of indiscretion will dwindle.

Excellent Performance

How are your drivers doing in getting to their appointed stops?  Are they consistently late and always blaming traffic?  Do you suspect that they are taking too long at stops or are making unauthorized stops along their routes?  Now you can know, and you can make changes in schedules when there are real problems with getting routes completed in a timely manner.

Excellent Route Performance

Making sure that schedules are realistic will help you insure that your customers are happy with their service level.  Watching for pick-ups and deliveries as they come in and making instant changes in schedules based on what vehicle is closest helps you cement your commitment to service in the eyes of your customers.

Performance Validation

The most important business activity for your operations is executing near flawless performance for your clients.  A GPS Tracking system will provide you with court-admissible evidence that can show compliance with laws and contracts.

Making GPS Tracking a part of your fleet business is like having a silent partner that keeps you in line and on the road to profitability.  Get one today and watch it go to work for you.

Rocking Mountain Tracking has the best line-up of GPS Tracking devices to meet any need.  Take a look at their products and options for the best fit for your business.  You will find knowledgeable sales persons in helping you get the best unit to meet your requirements.

By Greg Bartlett

A couple summers ago, I interned with a local family court.  There were a number of juveniles who came through the court during my internship who were being charged with truancy.  A few times, their parents were brought into the system, too, because they were under a court order to ensure that their kids got to school and the kids still weren’t attending classes.  Sometimes the juveniles didn’t go to school because their parents didn’t bother to make them, but sometimes the kids would refuse to get up or would even get on the bus and then get off someplace else, making their parents’ efforts useless.

GPS & Truancy

For parents who are concerned about their children’s education attendance, or who could even be facing jail time if their children do not attend school, a new option may turn out to be especially helpful.  Some students in Texas who are also frequent visitors to truancy court have been testing GPS monitoring, which allows that the court to ensure that the students are attending classes as ordered.

The GPS monitoring devices, which are about the size of a cell phone, can track the juveniles’ location and allow the truancy court officials to determine whether or not the individuals attended classes as required.  If they drop out of the program or leave the devices at home, the juveniles can face jail time for contempt of a court order.  Apparently the threat is working, because the program is reporting a 98% attendance rate for students on the program, and a continued 97% attendance rate for those who finished.

GPS monitoring can be a help both to the student, encouraging him or her to attend classes and graduate, and to the parent, who no longer has to worry about trying to force a child to attend classes and to risk jail time if the child skips classes despite the parent’s efforts.  For family or truancy courts, a GPS device can help provide the answer by giving a case worker the ability to closely monitor a juvenile and to strongly encourage him or her to attend classes as ordered without having to follow the juvenile around each day.

During my internship, I saw many concerned and frustrated parents and social workers.  Without the ability to more closely monitor a juvenile and ensure school attendance, chronic truancy sometimes couldn’t be stopped.  GPS monitoring, however, provides the necessary supervision and is apparently helping truant students redirect their lives and start attending classes again.

By Harriette Halepis

Source acquired via The Eagle (Bryan, TX) Jan 20, 2010 — Since the first school was erected in Ancient Greece, kids have made it a point to skip class now and then. While most administrators give students a slap on the wrist for this type of truancy, Justice of the Peace Tommy Munoz has had enough of doling out small slaps.

GPS & Truancy

A recent announcement that Munoz would be equipping truant students with GPS trackers has had some parents outraged while others fully support the decree. As some parents have argued, the thought of monitoring students with GPS trackers tends to conjure up images of criminals.

Those opposed to Munoz’s ruling argue that since many criminals around the world have recently been given new GPS ankle bracelets to wear, putting truant students in the same category seems to be sending the wrong signal. Acknowledging these protests, Munoz made it very clear that the GPS trackers truant students would be given are not the same as those trackers that criminals currently wear.

Instead, the “truancy trackers” are approximately the size of an average cell phone. Further, instead of attaching these trackers to a student, students will be asked to carry the trackers with them. In addition to simply carrying a tracker, students will also be asked to check in with authorities five times per day.

What happens if a student forgets to check in or simply forgets a tracker at home? Well, Munoz isn’t playing around when it comes to truancy, and he’ll “…hold them in contempt and they’ll face juvenile detention.” Munoz believes that “…the school has rules and adults have laws,” which means that those teens carrying a truancy tracker better not forget to bring that tracker to school every day.

Teens that are forced to take part in Munoz’s experiment can’t simply drop out of school either - to do so would be in violation of a court order. In fact, Munoz has promised that he will make it his duty to find students who have dropped out and slap them with an arrest warrant.

As for the cost of the program, the funding for the program will come from the Justice of the Peace Technology Fund, and the price of putting together Munoz’s plan will be around $13,000. The aim of the program is to “…get one student out of 10 to graduate…” This may not seem like a lot, but in the town of Bryan, Texas, most students never see graduation day. Whether or not Munoz’s truancy tracker plan will work has yet to be seen, but it’s one way to stop students from skipping school for the time being.

By Greg Bartlett

Does technology interest you? Do you like staying on top of the latest inventions? GPS technology is one type of technology that is very easy to understand, but that is becoming more progressive each day. A GPS tracker is something that any individual can use, whether a child, or an adult, to keep them safe and out of harm’s way. Although many people see this type of technology as unnecessary or too expensive, those who have started using it have realized a sense of peace and protection with this small piece of equipment.

GPS Tracker Technology

GPS tracking is a recent invention of technology. It starts with a GPS tracker that can be attached to an object or simply carried around. This object can be very small, or it can be very large, but the general use of it is very much the same.
While some GPS trackers can tell distance, speed, location, time, and many other things, some are built only to tell the location of an object within an accuracy of three inches. Once the tracker is turned on, it begins transmitting its waves to satellites that are located throughout the universe. These satellites correspond with each other to determine the location of the tracker and then transmit this information to a central computer or set of computers. These computers are monitored daily by technicians, who record and keep the information they receive. They can also pass this information along to certain individuals when necessary.

A recent use of the GPS tracker was very convincing during a bank robbery. The thieves tried to steal about $9,000 worth of money, but about an hour after the robbery, the police showed up at the door. There were two tracking devices planted in the money that allowed the bank personnel and officers to know exactly where the money was at all times. There have also been other reported uses of people getting lost, cars getting stolen, and other important items being taken or lost.

GPS technology allows you to know where your loved one or valuable item is at all times. Whether you are willing to invest a lot of money, or simply a couple of dollars to try it out, GPS technology could save you a lot of time and worry in the long run. Take a few minutes to try it out before you think it can’t work for you.

by James Neely, freelance writer: click | HERE | to check out GPS products from Rocky Mountain Tracking

Creating an environment in which your business can succeed is very important.  That is especially true in the economic climate in which businesses are operating today.  Once you establish a baseline of activities that you must perform to help your business succeed, then you can add the tools that you need to make it happen.

Building Your Business

These tools include a fully integrated GPS Tracking system.  Here are four ways that it can help you build your business:

Managing Growth

You know what the most difficult part of managing your business is?  Growth.  Your day-to-day operations are running smoothly and then all of a sudden you are asked to increase your service area or offerings.  If your business uses mobile or movable assets, then GPS Tracking systems will help you with the growth process because of the ability to manage them in a timely and efficient manner.  No longer will adding additional assets produce a sinking feeling on the part of your managers.

Increasing Customer Response

Being able to respond with instant feedback from a GPS Tracking system will help you turn your operations with ease to help keep profitability at the forefront of what you do.  When you track assets with GPS Tracking systems, you can know instantaneously where assets are located.  If they are missing or stolen, authorities can be notified to their exact location and they can be recovered within hours, not days, weeks or months.  You are able to keep running without having to sacrifice because of an incident of theft.

Keeping Service ‘Priority One’

GPS Tracking systems put customer service at the highest levels of business operations.  This is especially true if you are involved heavily in the delivery of goods or products via fleet solutions.  Other businesses that can benefit from these systems are people transportation systems as well.  There is no better way to manage routes than with a GPS Tracking system.

Repeat Customers

The most efficiently operated business invited use and customer satisfaction that keep them coming back for years.  Making use of the GPS Tracking system benefits helps your company stand out from your competition and makes you almost impossible to beat with it comes to delivering customer satisfaction.

Implementation of a GPS Tracking system has never been easier or more affordable than it is right now.  Adding one to your operation is no longer a nice thought or gesture.  It is mandatory and it is time to get on board.  Here’s to your success.

Rocking Mountain Tracking has the best line-up of GPS Tracking devices to meet any need.  Take a look at their products and options for the best fit for your business.  You will find knowledgeable sales persons in helping you get the best unit to meet your requirements.