Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMSs) are used by companies, such as manufacturers, that need to manage assets and equipment, as well as some service providers to manage assets on behalf of their customers. Since fixed assets represent an important investment for any company, CMMS can help by optimizing asset use and productivity. This type of software can cover multiple stages of the asset lifecycle, from acquisition to disposition. CMMS is used by technicians to maintain assets in optimal condition, and by managers to make educated decisions on how to improve asset utilization.
A CMMS best serves small and medium businesses and should not be confused with enterprise asset management (EAM) software, which delivers advanced asset management features for large companies and complex industries such as oil and gas, mining, or construction. The best CMMS solutions integrate with accounting software to manage the financial value and the depreciation of the assets.
To qualify for inclusion in the CMMS category, a product must:
Manage various types of assets and equipment across multiple locations
Track inventory for spare parts and materials needed for maintenance
Schedule maintenance activities such as inspections, repairs, and upgrades
Manage resources (human and equipment) and allocate them to maintenance operations
Deliver reports on asset utilization, maintenance costs, and technician productivity
Ensure asset compliance with safety and environmental regulations
Provide a mobile friendly interface or mobile apps for field service technicians
