1. A computerised maintenance management system (CMMS) is a management software
that performs functions in support of management and tracking of operations and
management (O&M) activities.
 What are the capabilities of CMMS?
CMMS manages the logistical functions the maintenance and management staff perform.
It comes with many options and offers many benefits over manual maintenance tracking
systems.
Depending on the system’s complexity, standard CMMS functions can include:
- Work order generation, prioritisation and tracking by equipment or component
- Historical tracking of work orders generated, which can be sorted by equipment,
date and person responding
- Tracking scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities
- Storing maintenance procedures and warranty information by component
- Storing technical documentation or procedures by component
- Real time reports on ongoing work activity
- Calendar or run time based preventive maintenance work order generation
- Capital and labour cost tracking by component and shortest, median and longest
times to close a work order by component
CMMS: A Basic Guide

2. - Complete component and material inventory control with automated recorder
capability
- PDA interface to streamline input and work order generation
- Outside service call or dispatch abilities
Many CMMS programs can interface with existing energy management and control
systems (EMCS) and property management systems. Combining these capabilities allows
for condition based monitoring and component energy use profiles.
 What are the pitfalls in CMMS?
Whilst CMMS can be highly beneficial in automating and enhancing the efficiency
of most O&M programs, there are some common pitfalls including:
- Improper Selection of CMMS Vendors
This is a site-specific decision. To prevent it, companies should evaluate their
initial needs and look for the proper match of system and service provider.
- Inadequate Training of the O&M Administrative Staff on the Proper Use of CMMS
The administrative staff needs dedicated training on input, function and
maintenance of CMMS, which takes place at the site of the companies after the
installation of the system.
- Lack of Commitment to Implement CMMS Properly
Commitment is needed for the implementation of CMMS. Most vendors provide
this as a service, which is often worth the expense.
- Lack of Commitment to Persist in CMMS Use and Integration
Whilst CMMS provides many benefits, they need maintenance. Most CMMS
installations have a “champion” of its use, who ushers and encourages its
continued use.
CMMS offers many more benefits. Companies should keep the pitfalls of the
system in mind as well, however, before installing or implementing it.
Sources:
http://www.techopedia.com/definition/25281/computerized-maintenance-management-system-cmms
http://elatewiki.org/index.php/Computerized_Maintenance_Management_System_%28CMMS%29
http://www.mainpac.com.au/