Introduction
Computerised Maintenance Management Systems are increasingly being used to manage and control plant and equipment maintenance in modern manufacturing and service industries. This view of the selection and implementation process can assist those who are considering CMMS for the first time, to decide their requirements.
A number of years ago, the principles of CMMS were applied to hospital equipment maintenance, where critical breakdowns could lead to the development of life threatening situations. In recent years private companies have come to recognise the value of these systems as a maintenance performance and improvement tool. The advent of the PC during the last few years has further boosted their popularity. As more and more maintenance personnel become computer literate they are regarded as an increasingly attractive option. Companies are also investing in CMMS's because they are generally designed to support the document control requirements of ISO 9002 and are a key part of the TPM philosophy.