Regardless of the industry you’re in, data is a hot topic you’re likely hearing more about these days. Data is more than just a spreadsheet with information; it’s a representation of your business’s story. It gives you the insights you need to make informed decisions for your business and your customers.
In the waste industry, there are a wealth of opportunities to leverage data to improve your overall waste program. But before you can fully reap the benefits of that, it’s important to make sure the right technology and processes are in place to help you get a glimpse into the information you need.
There are a variety of waste monitoring systems available today, at various price points, that allow business owners to get a handle on waste spend. Monitoring capabilities will also vary based on equipment. Here are four features to look for when evaluating a monitoring technology for your organization:
#1: Fullness Monitoring
A key feature that you’ll often find on waste monitoring systems is fullness monitoring. This offers a real-time glimpse into how full your equipment is at any given time. As this data builds up, you can determine whether your equipment is fulfilling your waste needs based on your usage, or if there are any detectable patterns that may trigger any adjustments that need to be made.
#2: Rightsizing
Your waste program can only be as effective as the equipment you have onsite. If you’ve noticed that your waste program is not adequate for the amount you are or are not producing based off the fullness monitoring data, rightsizing is the next step. Regularly evaluating your data, or working directly with a managed waste service provider, will allow you to make pertinent updates or improvements over time.
For example, data can help you determine whether your waste flow is higher during some of your peak spikes in business—and if so, adjustments can be made to support the increase in waste for that period. Or maybe your container is being picked up and hauled away only half full twice per week. This presents an opportunity to scale back the hauling schedule, save money and lessen your environmental footprint.
#3: Service Verification
You will know when your waste equipment has been hauled or picked up thanks to this key feature. Service verification allows you to keep track and see the cadence of when your equipment is emptied.
#4: Transparent Data and Reporting
A cloud-based waste tracking system allows you to keep an eye on your waste and recycling whenever is most convenient for you. Real-time access gives you the information you need on a dime.
A critical component to an efficient waste monitoring system is capturing metrics and analyzing information regularly. The data produced from this type of system holds the key to new efficiencies, pertinent updates or improvements to your waste and recycling program over time. Detailed reports and insights show a variety of key data buckets that will help keep you informed. These can include waste spend, service insights, statistics on tonnage, number of hauls and historical program data.