Years ago, going anywhere required having memorized the path there or having a map with you. Even going to a neighboring city can be quite the experience without a map. Maps were sold in every street corner- but now you barely see them anymore. And this is all because we now have access to perhaps the most convenient navigation tool: GPS.
At this point, everyone’s familiar with GPS technology. It’s integrated into our phones, computers, and even watches. We use it in quite a variety of ways, and it has definitely improved our daily lives. Many people have not understood how GPS technology can make doing things more efficient and effective. Below are some of these ways.
Securing Valuable Items
Before we talk about personal valuables, let’s talk about industry-specific valuable items, like priceless artworks. An artwork displayed in a gallery can certainly be safeguarded through technological security systems and security personnel. But once it goes into transit, it’s a whole different story. This is where GPS technology can come in. Especially for high-value artworks and those that are collector’s items, it’s helpful to track where the item is, from the gallery to its intended location.
Property Protection
If you have something valuable, wouldn’t it make sense to track it in case you lose it? Your smartphone, for example, has a built-in GPS tracker in it so if you’re worried you might accidentally drop it somewhere, activate the tracking app so you can rest assured. We even have small GPS devices like Tile or the more recent Apple AirTag that we can connect to our phone and attach to our belongings (like luggage or other important stuff), so we’ll practically never lose them anymore.
Emergency Response for Explorers and Hikers
For regular citizens, the ability to send a GPS tracker might seem useful for the most extreme of situations only. But for those whose usual activities are deemed somewhat dangerous, like explorers or hikers, this feature is heaven-sent. Park rangers and scientists who work in the field now have a way to immediately track their location and proceed to their destination with ease. This works even for recreational hikers. A GPS can mean the difference between life and death for anyone whose work or activities require them to travel to less-traveled areas.
Protection from Violence
The simple truth is that children and women are prone to dangers. Cases of violence against children and women remain high, and danger lurks anywhere. Devices with GPS can act as a layer of protection, as they can find a safe route when traveling. A family member can also use the GPS to track their loved ones when traveling.
For Those Living in Campervans
GPS is also used by nomads and frequent travelers, especially the ones living in a customized motorhome. Being that many of their most important possessions- their domicile, even, is in a vehicle, securing the said vehicle is critical. Fortunately, many motorhomes have a GPS built-in, which can then be connected to a device like a smartphone or a laptop to enable tracking wherever you are. Of course, the typical use of GPS to navigate remains, but the feature to find your vehicle wherever you are is indispensable.
Logistics: Tracking Your Fleet
GPS technology has changed how we perceive online purchases. Before, buying online was hit-and-miss, and there was little guarantee that we’re getting what we bought or even if it’s arriving. Not anymore, as many vendors utilize a delivery tracking system that informs buyers where the package is exactly at.
This, of course, relies on GPS technology and the delivery people logging their location. Because of this, online purchases are now a lot more reliable. For businesses dealing with larger shipments, this is even more important as they can track where their delivery is. It allows for better logistical arrangements and makes business operations more efficient.
For Pets, Just in Case
While the term microchipping is not unheard of, people are still somewhat confused about what they are for and if it can help track a lost pet. Pet microchips only contain an ID number linked to the pet’s owner should the said pet be lost and found. On the other hand, if you are looking into GPS tracking options for your pet, there are available ones attached to their collar.
Thanks to GPS technology, we now enjoy a level of convenience and safety we never had before. As the years go by, we can only expect more developments that will make life easier.
