An Overview of Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)

What is a computerised maintenance management system?

Computerised maintenance management systems are used by facility managers to organise, record, manage and communicate the day to day operations of a business. CMMS provides reports used to manage resources, prepare facilities and evaluate the effectiveness of current operations. The information gathered by computerised maintenance management systems is then used by facility managers when they need to make organisational and personnel decisions. It is an essential tool for modern day facility management and maintenance.

Typical features of CMMS software

Computer maintenance management systems come with a wide range of capabilities, making them suitable for all sized businesses. Although CMMS packages vary in price, they typically include features such as work orders and descriptions, inventory management, asset management and safety records.

Work orders

CMMS software enables facility managers to manage work orders. This involves recording information about materials, equipment and the facilities. Managing work orders is useful when it comes to reserving materials, assigning personnel, scheduling work and tracking equipment. The reports can also be used for recommending future actions and ensuring problems are avoided.

Inventory management

Inventory management is a key feature of CMMS. It is used to record data about a business’s current inventory levels. Using inventory management, facility managers can ensure that inventory is reserved for particular job or client. It also enables them to keep on top of purchasing and tracking inventory.

Asset management

The asset management feature of CMMS software is used to record data about assets and ensure they are managed and maintained efficiently. The information recorded can also help maintenance workers carry out work by giving them access to specifications, purchasing dates, spare parts, warranties and service history. The information recorded is useful when it comes to creating reports.These reports can help facility managers to evaluate the effectiveness of their asset management programmer.

Safety records

CMMS can also be used to help manage health and safety. Using the software, facility managers can document safety requirements and carry out inspections to make sure that their building is complying with regulations.

Benefits of using a CMMS

CMMS is also fantastic for ensuring that buildings are complying with current legislation. If an accident occurs, all of the information related to it must be recorded so that processes can be created to ensure that it does not happen again.

Conclusion

Computer maintenance management systems effectively utilise existing data, transforming it into reports that give facility managers a greater insight into the buildings they manage. With the help of computer maintenance management systems, facility managers can make more informed decisions for their business and come up with effective solutions for future planning.