January 28, 2025
CMMS Training: Strategies for Success with Your CMMS Provider
For better maintenance management success, you should follow five steps when investing in a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
- Planning. What features do you want from the system?
- Implementation. Inputting foundational information into the system.
- Training. To learn the system.
- Going live. Using the CMMS for your daily activities.
- Improvements. Looking to the system provider for more.
In this article, we'll focus on the third point. Training. We'll discuss nine benefits of training to use a CMMS. Also, we'll look at three training options your provider should offer.
Nine Key Benefits of CMMS Training
Efficient System Utilization: Unlocking CMMS Potential
An obvious point. You need to learn the software. Members of your team who will also use the system will need training. While self-teaching might be worthwhile, why not learn from the people who know the system? You familiarize yourself with the basics, some nuances, and a few "tricks."
After using the system in daily maintenance activities, you discover more uses. You may have questions regarding some of the features. Take advantage of quality technical support.
The benefit of this: Better efficiency and productivity.
Data Accuracy: Making Better Decisions with Precise Information
With proper training, you learn what data you'll need for improved operations. Many of the information fields don't pertain to your company. No problem. Take comfort in knowing that they exist if you need them in the future.
The benefit of this: Accurate data means better reports for informed decisions.
Discover how streamlined maintenance processes can elevate production. Learn more.
Employee Empowerment Through CMMS Knowledge
People feel confident when they learn new skills. CMMS training helps ease employees through the transition of using a new system. This independence fosters a sense of ownership and accountability for maintenance tasks.
The benefit of this: Better communication means better morale.
Quick Problem Resolution with CMMS Knowledge
With a CMMS, you have more information easily available. With this knowledge, you can pinpoint problems faster. Training shows these areas that will help you.
For instance, you record failure/cause/action codes, giving the failure of an asset, the cause of the failure, and the action taken.
Another example: Tracking equipment readings. These help shape preventive maintenance (PM) plans. Sometimes, it comes down to "the more you know."
You have historical maintenance data that helps technicians' efficiency.
The benefit of this: Minimized downtime.
Optimized Maintenance Processes for Maximum Efficiency
Remember that the CMMS won't create a maintenance program. However, it shows you areas for improvement. Training helps with that.
This means better planning and scheduling. Better resource utilization, both labor and stock.
You have enhanced asset management by knowing more details about equipment and other assets.
The benefits of this: Keeping assets at a baseline functionality and improving asset reliability.
Ensuring Compliance and Accurate Reporting with CMMS
Some assets need to "function" at a certain level. Many reasons involve safety. Training helps you see those areas that need special care.
With a CMMS, you have accurate documentation to show regulators and auditors. Easily generate reports for these people.
The benefit of this: Avoiding fines or worse penalties.</p>
Customization and Adaptability for Long-Term Success
This overlaps the final step mentioned above. Training starts you on the right path. It will show you possibilities and give you options for the future.
One option might be customization. In time, maybe you'll discover some specialized reports or features you can discuss with the CMMS provider.
Adaptability means you can adjust the system to your needs. You make adjustments to settings to fit your operations.
The benefits of these: The system remains relevant and effective over time.
Cost Savings from Effective CMMS Use
This should be one of your goals for investing in a CMMS. You have extra expenses and hope the system will organize your operations to reduce costs.
Training helps you with that organization. In time, you'll see efficiency and productivity improve.
The benefits of this: Minimizing unnecessary downtime and maintenance costs.
Enhanced Operations Through Informed CMMS Utilization
I've mentioned this throughout, but let's dig deeper.
Training shows you how your operations can run better. You tap into key performance indicator reports (KPIs).
You discuss attainment percentages with your team. You stay open to feedback and comments.
The benefit of this: Training helps you open the doors for further discussions.
Training Options to Ensure Your CMMS Success
Now that we've covered the benefits, what should you discuss regarding training with any CMMS provider before you invest? What options does the company offer? While I mentioned self-training as a possibility, you'll have more benefits with company training. Let's look at three common types.
This brings you to the company. You meet the staff and hold training sessions in a classroom-type atmosphere.
Based on attendance, the instructors can focus the curriculum on specific desires. You might work on:
- General system setup.
- Preventive maintenance.
- Asset management.
- Organizing your stockroom.
- Purchasing procedures.
- Barcoding.
Advantages of In-house include:
- Better one-on-one training.
- Fewer distractions in a classroom setting.
- More chances to ask questions.
- Casual atmosphere.
- As detailed sessions as needed.
Disadvantages:
- Travel time and expenses.
- Time off from work.
This brings the company to you. A rep travels to your company and conducts training. Advantages of this option:
- No travel time for company employees.
- Tailored sessions directly for your company operations.
- Flexible schedule to train employees when they work.
- Train with your data.
Disadvantages:
- Travel time for the provider rep.
- Possible interruption of daily work.
This brings the company and you together online through videoconferencing. The advantages include:
- No travel time or expenses.
- Better opportunities for convenient scheduling.
- More employee involvement.
Disadvantages:
- Less personal since the instructor cannot adequately see all attendees.
- Less one-on-one interaction.
- Shorter sessions.
- Fewer opportunities for questions.
What to Consider When Choosing a CMMS Provider for Training
When investing in a CMMS, look for training opportunities. What options does the company offer? Who will conduct the sessions? How long will the sessions take? Ask about cost and follow-up training sessions.
Mapcon Technologies offers all three options mentioned above. 800-922-4336 starts you on the path to maintenance management success. Train with Mapcon today!
MAPCON CMMS software empowers you to plan and execute PM tasks flawlessly, thanks to its wealth of features and customizable options. Want to see it for yourself? Click the button below to get your FREE 30-day trial of MAPCON!
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