Subvert the dominant paradigm.

In the straight laced world of government work it is not very often government fleets are thought of as innovators or trend setters. This lethargic city garage mentality must be broken at the back, its head severed and body burned to ashes and scattered to the four winds so that no trace of complacency remains. As a service provider for the fleet of a small town it is often my responsibility to educate or reeducate the decision makers in my organization. Decision makers may include the parts clerk or the mayor, the department head or the city administrator.

It is very likely your opinion on matters such as; vehicle selection, life cycling and repair processes are often squelched by the much louder voices within your organization. Volume does not constitute accuracy; it is part of your responsibility to produce the proof that supports the facts concerning the mysteries of fleet management. It is also very likely that some established processes are blatantly wrong but need not be challenged. Find your organization’s “hot button”; is it fuel prices, is it accidents, or maybe vehicle image. Whatever the “poster child” of your organization gather all the information possible on the subject; once the information is at your fingertips compare it to known standards and put your shop on trial. Be the catalyst for change

 Are you willing to change with the times? If not prepare to be outsourced to someone who is.

About the author
Gary Lykins

Gary Lykins

Fleet Manager

Gary Lykins serves as the fleet manager, shop supervisor, and lead mechanic for the Town of Jonesborough. Although he has 20 years of experience in various roles in the automotive and equipment industry, his tenure with the Town of Jonesborough has been the most challenging and fulfilling position of his career.

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