TABLE OF CONTENTS This appendix gives additional information on implementing and using a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to assist planning, as referenced in Chap. 9. The main chapters did not include this information to avoid detracting from the book's main purpose of explaining how to do planning. This appendix mentions some common features and aspects a planner would like to have in a CMMS and then discusses different types of CMMS software projects such installing a new system or simply upgrading an existing system. While not providing a project management guidebook, the appendix also covers major problems of software projects and how to try to avoid them. Furthermore, take any discussion points below that seem derogatory toward the Information Technology (IT) group primarily as a caution.
It is appropriate to begin this appendix by distinguishing plainly between planning and using a CMMS. They are not the same. Planning is a tool to increase productivity. A CMMS is a tool to apply information. They are overlapping tools.
Examine the six planning principles of Chap. 2 against this information tool. The CMMS does not dictate that planners should be separate from crews. It does not dictate that planners should concentrate on future work. The CMMS does require component-level equipment designations for recording information. The CMMS does not emphasize the technical skill of the planner in setting scopes and estimates. The CMMS also may not count on craft skills. The CMMS certainly cannot measure
