In a world of fast-paced logistics and digitally connected fleets, GPS tracking software has risen as one of the most important features for enterprises to manage fleets, delivery networks or mobile personnel. It is a fact to be noted that even though many organizations think about the development price of adopting GPS solutions, many less actually comprehend the long-term GPS tracking software maintenance costs involved. 

In this blog, we aim to clarify and explain the basic ideas of GPS software maintenance costs and how you should think about dealing with a custom software development company or plan to hire a software developer. 

Why Maintenance is Non-Negotiable for GPS Software

It is the primary task of GPS tracking applications to collect and analyse important real-time data like location, speed, routes, driver behaviour, and even cargo status. Hence, the need to focus critically on post-deployment maintenance and set up the budget accordingly. 

Components of GPS Tracking Software Maintenance Costs

Maintaining a GPS solution can obviously differ according to the size, complexity and integration scope. If we look carefully, we will find these important components:

1. Bug Fixes & Performance Tuning

Every software can get infected with bugs when device environments are changed quite frequently, updates in the firmware or even third-party APIs. Eliminating bugs and performance optimisation will ideally consume a percentage of annual maintenance budgets. 

2. Server & Hosting Costs

There are exclusive and dedicated drivers on which cloud-based GPS software runs. The use of infrastructure (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) affects the hosting bills immediately. 

3. Security Updates

Complying with protocols like SSL, data encryption, role-based access control and periodic vulnerability scanning is a part of any contemporary GPS system. Through daily patches and compliance updates ongoing maintenance particularly for businesses handling personal or location data is very important. 

4. Feature Enhancements

Needing new scale or adding new capabilities like geofencing, predictive analytics or multi-device sync may be essential for business. Maintenance costs must bear the factor for such scalability or the addition of modules that are integrated through the CRM software development services or third-party tools.

5. Third-Party API Management

GPS systems often operate through mapping tools, telematics devices, CRM or ERP software. Each of its integration carries a load of maintenance unique to it, particularly if those APIs change over time. Re-integration and testing are extremely useful to maintain consistency. 

6. Mobile App Updates

Mobile-based tracking apps are used by many companies to track field agents or drivers. Updates that are aligned with OS changes (Android/IOS) are necessary. This includes features like UI adjustments, SDK upgrades and regression testing. 

Estimating Annual Maintenance Costs

It is a rule of thumb that GPS tracking software maintenance costs can range from 15% to 25% of the initial development cost each year. 

However, these costs are dependent on: 

• Use of multiple time zones to scale operations
• Need for 24/7 monitoring or technical support
• Combine with complicated external systems like billing or dispatch platforms

Why Hiring a Dedicated Developer is a Necessity for Deployment

If your company uses mission-critical software and requires continuous tweaking, it is best to hire a software engineer or a team. It allows better alignment with business goals and faster turnaround times.  That being said, enterprises with more stable software that opts for effective packages from a custom software development company may be very best for all concerned.   

CRM Software development services or GPS tracking system development companies also provide tiered support plans like patching, API monitoring, and quarterly performance reviews.

Read More- Step-by-Step Guide to Develop Tax Calculator App – Cost and Features

How Devstree, a Leading Software Development Company, Supports Your Growth

The best software development companies deliver help with deployment of accurate and custom applications along with active maintenance that includes 

• Code audits and refactoring for reducing long held technical debt
• Predictive analytics to locate possible issues before they become a serious threat.
• User experience enhancements based on practical feedback
• Data backups and recovery protocols can be very useful for continuity of any business

Devstree builds scalable, safe and customizable GPS tracking systems that provides important and necessary support across multiple industries like logistics, transportation, field services and many many more.

Final Thoughts

For any enterprise, big or small thinking of investing in GPS tracking solutions must plan ahead for maintenance costs along with meticulously planning for development. Whatever you choose, be it an inhouse team or partner with a custom software development company, system maintenance is simply unavoidable to stay on track. GPS tracking software can be very expensive. If you plan on cost reduction without really compromising on the quality of work done, Devstree is your ideal technology partner. Learn from us today about our adaptive support plans and GPS tracking software enterprise