> CMMS Application

CMMS systems all function in the same way. Some are more detailed or use different terminology, but they all utilize the work order system. Computers offer one major advantage: speed. Where manual systems lead to bulky binders, poorly organized data, and communication issues, CMMS systems reduce these problems. Even the largest systems require minimal paperwork, filing, and time. This section provides a general overview of a typical system and its uses.

All functions included in computerized maintenance management systems are designed to offer the following benefits to the user:

• Improve maintenance efficiency
• Reduce maintenance costs
• Reduce equipment downtime by scheduling preventive maintenance
• Increase equipment lifespan
• Provide historical records to assist in maintenance planning and budgeting.
• Provide maintenance reports in the format required by the user.

The main advantage of such a solution is that it allows teams to track all their industrial maintenance operations or other activities in real time. Teams gain autonomy and use the tool to list all the tasks they have performed throughout the day. Each operator thus keeps a record of their own activity as well as that of their colleagues and has a calendar to plan activities and establish maintenance plans.

Such a solution also allows each user to visualize all breakdowns on the production line in order to keep track of all defective equipment and all activities. Technicians and managers visualize them and become aware of the various breakdowns occurring in their plant. Thanks to the maintenance management software, machine operators easily share information and save time when in the field because they only intervene on equipment that truly requires it.

More concretely, production profiles can enter all information they deem necessary to allow the teams in charge to perform level 1 maintenance. Consequently, the operator is more aware of their responsibilities and the team can focus more on critical equipment. The objective here is to improve their reaction time.

Why Centralizing Information is Crucial

Making information easily accessible to all company departments (maintenance, production, purchasing, warehouse, accounting…) and allowing each user to have an overview of the data also contributes to optimizing the group’s processes.

To go further in information sharing, it is possible, for example, to connect the maintenance management software to the company’s ERP to track all stock levels as well as spare parts. This data is essential because it allows a plant to better manage its costs. If maintenance teams know all the information regarding spare parts, purchasing does not have to place huge and unnecessary orders, which would lead to significant financial losses. There is indeed a strong need for cross-functionality, and not just for technicians in the field.