The question that comes up for most clients at the beginning of implementation of a CMMS system is ‘what do I do first?’ There are a lot of critical problems to solve from a maintenance and reliability standpoint, which is what the systems are designed to help organizations manage. Some typical components and areas of functionality in a system may include, but are not limited to:
The key is implementation is to have a long-term view of what to do in order to put all of the foundational components into place.
There are ten best practices to help ensure success with a CMMS system.
Who is the person in the organization who owns the system?
Organizations often build a plan to support implementation of a CMMS that begins with the selection of the software, and ends with the Go Live of the system. In reality, the Go Live is only their beginning of the effort. To ensure success, organizations must have a long term plan in place that addresses the following:
Many organizations use only a small percentage of the functionality of their systems because they view the implementation as the end of the road. Treat the implementation as the beginning of the journey to help ensure long term success. For example:
A CMMS is a complex integrated system that is designed to manage advanced maintenance practices. Getting the full use of the system requires a continuous improvement process that will move the organization through the journey to a high performing organization.
Many organizations view the CMMS as an administrative burden and go out of the way to reduce this burden by taking shortcuts. These shortcuts significantly impact the value and accuracy of the system. Instead, ensure that:
During implementation, a focused understanding on a operation’s culture and how it can make or break CMMS success is critical. For a deeper understanding of how a CMMS “tells the story of maintenance,” check out eMaint’s webinar “Using Your CMMS to Influence Culture.” eMaint Sr. Consultant in Professional Services Roy Rothwell shares common pitfalls to avoid, and tips for organizations to promote a positive culture with a maintenance management system.
Accuracy and consistency of data is the foundation of the system. If data collection is not correct and to the proper level of detail, the system will not be able to deliver it’s designed value. Commit to building and maintaining foundational data to have a valuable and sustainable system.
Detailed process flows and descriptions with clear roles and responsibilities definition are instrumental for getting the organization to a common understanding of use and processes. Design processes that will support improved practice objectives.
CMMS software is only as good as the business practices it supports. Don’t just automate current practices… evaluate, improve, and enhance. Major changes are easier to implement when they are coupled with the changes of new system.