Let’s dive into a topic that’s been buzzing in the telematics world—the age-old debate of quality versus price. I’m sure we’ve all been there, facing the inevitable question: What comes first, the quality or the price?

In the early days of fleet management and the telematics boom, the price wasn’t the chief concern. It was more about functionality and the substantial savings a solution could offer. Fast forward, as the telematics landscape got more crowded, price became a significant player in the decision-making game. Suddenly, fleet managers started giving the side-eye to benefits, and the price tag took center stage.

In my interactions, I’ve often been surprised by potential clients seeking top-notch quality, a bunch of features, and a lightning-fast setup—all at an unbelievably low price. Let’s be real, though: cheap, quality, and fast rarely hang out together. On the flip side, a well-dressed client might be on the hunt for a budget-friendly telematics solution but won’t compromise on quality.

As someone navigating the telematics world with a bit of a different perspective—I’m a woman in this predominantly male industry—I wonder: Why pick price over quality? Does a cheap solution really make clients happy? Spoiler alert: Often, it doesn’t. It might seem like a great deal initially, but it can turn out to be unreliable and struggle to keep up with changing needs. No one wants to be stuck with a solution that can’t evolve or adapt, right?

So, here’s the thing. If you go for the best for yourself, why not extend that respect to your fleet and clients? This isn’t coming from frustration; it’s about staying true to your values. I’ve been in situations where I faced rejection because I wouldn’t compromise on my standards. But you know what? I’m not frustrated; I’m just being me.

Why am I writing these lines? Because few days ago was the Romanian National Day. 

So  let’s talk a bit about Romania, my homeland. Yes, I’m proud to be Romanian. Growing up during the communist era wasn’t a walk in the park, but it taught me resilience. Does Romania have fantastic people? Absolutely. That’s probably why so many automotive and software companies set up factories, plants, and offices here. More than that- luxury brands are having facility and production factories in Romania. Why? Because of our roots, dedication, commitment to quality and valuable work.

But here’s the kicker—I’ve encountered biases because of my Romanian background. In a past conversation, someone told me I shouldn’t ask for more money because of where I come from. Ouch, right? That hurt at the time, but it made me stronger. Today, I know who I am, what I want, and what I bring to the table.

As we approach the festive season and gear up for 2024, let’s consider our choices. Do we go for the allure of cheap and quick solutions, or do we commit to quality and lasting value? It’s a decision that shapes not just the telematics industry but our professional landscape too.

Looking forward to your thoughts and discussions! Feel free to connect, share your experiences, or just say hello!