Operational efficiency is critical for any business, anywhere in the world, and it's no different for fleets. An unnecessary wastage of time or fuel will result in a loss of profit. We believe that efficiency can always be improved, even if you think your business runs smoothly. Accordingly, the fifth issue of Real Answers aims to provide our customers with some fresh ideas.

Our first article shows how efficiency can be improved through the use of modem technology. We look at Daimler's FeetBoard, an internet-based telematics service to manage all aspects of a fleet.

In many cases, efficiency can be improved by streamlining finer details rather than adopting a broad brush approach. This method is advocated by CIP Development Services, a UK-based consultancy with strong ties in the Middle East & Africa region. We find out about their Continuous Improvement Programme, which is tailored to companies in the automotive industry.

Often, a good way to improve is by studying one's peers, so we hope that our customers can learn from the case study on Dubai-based transportation company Tristar. We discovered that the workshop strives to maintain a quality service while implementing safety and cost-saving measures.

This story leads on to a profile on Yousuf Al Qusan, a long distance driver that transports fruit and vegetables from Dubai to Syria. For Yousuf, efficiency is paramount - his clients' goods have to stay fresh - so he avoids downtime by buying quality tyres and making sure that his vehicle remains in good condition.

The next article is an exclusive interview with Colonel Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, deputy director general, Department of Traffic for Dubai Police. The Colonel speaks frankly about Dubai Police's efforts to improve safety on the emirate's roads through a multitude of campaigns. He also provides invaluable advice for fleet managers and truck drivers.

Of course, no fleet would be efficient it its vehicles' tyres are left under-inflated and prone to damage. Dual tyres require valve extensions for air pressure checks and fill-up, but these extensions are not without their problems. We speak to Tobias Glauch, the creator of an innovative valve extension that is both flexible and pressure free.

Regular readers of the magazine will notice that all of the articles in this issue are based on interviews with experts and interesting personalities. We hope that these real situations and real opinions will provide our customers with real answers.



Yuji Fushimi
General Manager – Commercial Tyre Marketing
Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE