An Editor's Q&A with Del Lisk, vice president, safety services at DriveCam Inc.

This month, the editors of "In the Driver's Seat" caught up with Del Lisk, DriveCam's Vice President, Safety Services, on how to best implement a Driver Risk Management solution.

Editor: Once a company has made the decision to implement a Driver Risk Management (DRM) solution what is the first step they should take?

DL: The first thing any company should do is their homework. Think about any potential issues or questions you might face when implementing a DRM solution, and be prepared to answer them fully. Review driver and union contracts and ensure that nothing precludes using video technology.

The second step is getting all your stakeholders on board. Be they internal management, union leaders or drivers, everyone needs to understand why the company is implementing a DRM solution and what the benefit is to each stakeholder. This is also a great time to set up the guidelines for using the solution, such as when incidents are to be coached and how to incorporate the solution into the company's existing driver training program.

Editor: When should you discuss the DRM solution with your drivers?

DL: The DRM solution should be thoroughly explained prior to a video event recorder being installed in any vehicle. This way your drivers will know what to expect from the solution. Keep the lines of communication open to avoid the rumor mill.

Editor: Any other important tips?

DL: Be sure to respond to any major concerns from your drivers and other stakeholders. For example, let your drivers know that the solution does not allow real time viewing for managers. The solution is exception based and will only record when unusual vehicle force has occurred. Additionally, emphasize that the solution is not punitive - it is a tool to improve driver behavior, not to weed anyone out of a job.

Editor's Note: To learn more about how to best implement a DRM solution, download DriveCam's newest white paper, "10 Tips for Incorporating a Driver Risk Management (DRM) System into Your Existing Safety Program," at www.drivecam.com/whitepapers.asp.