The short answer
GPS tracking answers where and when — nothing more. That makes it a good fit for mobile teams and less intrusive than methods that capture what people say, type or look at. For field workers it often replaces more intrusive or time-wasting checks, such as repeated “where are you?” calls.
Not legal advice. This guide explains UK law in general terms, as at the date shown. The ICO’s guidance on monitoring workers was under review following the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 when this was written — check the ICO for the current position, and take advice for your own circumstances.
The common ways businesses monitor mobile teams
| Method | What it tells you | Intrusiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Paper or app timesheets | Hours worked, as reported by the worker | Low, but relies on accuracy and memory |
| Check-in calls or texts | Where someone says they are | Low data, high interruption |
| GPS tracking (phone) | Location, routes, arrival times | Moderate; limited to where and when |
| Vehicle telematics | Location plus engine data, harsh braking, idling | Moderate to high |
| Dashcams | Video of the road, sometimes the cab | High if cab-facing or recording audio |
| Screen or keystroke monitoring | What someone does on a computer | High; the ICO expects a DPIA for keystroke monitoring |
When GPS tracking is the right tool
- Coordinating a team that moves around — who is nearest to the next job?
- Answering customers — “your engineer is ten minutes away”.
- Safety for lone workers — knowing where someone was last seen.
- Settling disputes — did the van actually arrive at 9:05?
Choosing the least intrusive method
UK data protection law asks you to choose the least intrusive way to meet your purpose. If you only need to know hours worked, timesheets may be enough. If you need live location for dispatch or safety, GPS tracking is proportionate — audio or cab-facing video probably isn’t.
Combining methods sensibly
Many small businesses find that GPS tracking with route history reduces the need for other checks: the route answers most “what happened?” questions. See GPS time tracking for field service for using it alongside timesheets.
Common questions
Is GPS tracking more intrusive than timesheets?
It collects more data than a timesheet, but it is objective and needs no admin from the worker. What matters is being open about it and limiting it to working time.
Do I need a DPIA for GPS tracking?
The ICO says employers should carry out a DPIA for monitoring even when it is not strictly required, and must for high-risk processing.