How Is EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) Software Used?

Enterprise asset management software can be used in many ways ranging from work order creation, job scheduling, inventory control, and service histories to predictive maintenance and analytics. Below are a few examples of how organisations can use enterprise asset management:

· Enterprise asset management - Topping the list is EAM, for which the software is named. All records, certificates, and details related to enterprise assets can be entered into the software, creating a centralized documentation repository for all enterprise assets. For example, imagine a company such as BP. Assets such as oil rigs, drills, pumps, and oil refinery assets along with all of their details such as model and serial number, purchase price, warranties, service agreements, contracts, leases, expected useful lifetime, safety certificates, and licenses can be stored in EAM software.

· Facilities management - Likewise, facilities such as refineries, processing plants, manufacturing plants, wastewater treatment plants, commercial buildings, high rise buildings, and even historical sites such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace can be managed with Enterprise asset management software. Everything from lifts, ventilation systems, and electrical systems to landscaping, windows, and plumbing can be managed and documented using EAM software.

· Fleet management - Just as buildings and equipment are common enterprise assets, the same is true of fleets. EAM software can be used to manage a fleet of private hire vehicles, hackney carriages, trash trucks, forklifts, police cars, fire trucks, buses, subway trains, cranes, tractors, and other motor vehicles. Important documentation related to each vehicle in the fleet can be recorded in the software as can driver information and service records.

· Work order management - While documenting enterprise assets such as equipment, facilities, and fleets is one of Enterprise asset management software's primary roles, EAM software is also used to manage all work related to those assets including repairs and routine service. EAM software usually includes scheduling features which allow you to assign technicians, parts and supplies, and a time and date to each job.

· Inventory management - Many organisations use EAM software to manage inventory related to maintenance. Whether parts need to be ordered for a pending repair or supplies taken out of inventory on hand, EAM software can be used to manage and document the process.

· Maintenance - EAM software shines in its preventative and predictive maintenance features. These vital tasks are often postponed or overlooked completely. You can program preventative maintenance schedules into the software for each asset as well as set up EAM software to monitor readings and alert you to items that need your attention.

· Analytics - Due to the relational nature of EAM software's database, all of the data entered into the software can be analysed. For example, a fleet manager could pull a report detailing breakdowns across the entire fleet or determine which models are the most reliable. This information can be used to make smarter decisions.

Enterprise asset management software is a comprehensive set of tools that helps facilities, fleet, and maintenance managers manage the assets under their care, extend their useful life, and reduce downtime.

Martin Beckett is an author and renowned expert in manufacturing,EAM and CMMS and has collaborated with eMaint UK for a few projects. Martin also specializes in writing about international business affairs, and you can connect with him over on Google+.