Public, high traffic facilities are not acci-dent proof and a solid defense with the help of CMMS against such incidents as slip and falls is key to potentially winning the case. CMMS might assist in providing such a defense, which is critical because the num-ber of injury lawsuits filed as a result of a slip and fall accident, for example, has risen by more than 300 percent since 1980. And, the average cost per lawsuit is approximately $50,000. Cost-saving Features Now that youʼve made a case for CMMS software and its related cost-savings, it is time to shop. Although the software package offering is important, a reputable manufacturer part-ner is equally as vital. An initial step is to do your homework by knowing your facilityʼs particular CMMS needs. “About two-thirds of CMMS implementa-tions fail,” notes Davies, who adds that most of these cases were due to the buyer jumping in and not doing their research. As examples, do you need a turnkey solution, a “plug and play” application or a more flexible, modular system? “Turnkey solutions are appropriate for facility operations that lack information technology (IT) complexity and for cus-tomers who are willing to manage data according to the design of the CMMS sys-tem,” notes Lanier. “Other customers [may] need a highly-configurable CMMS system and a dedicated mobile solution for field operations that can match their specific work processes.” Another important characteristic of CMMS software, continues Lanier, is align-ment with industry standards and best practices, such as Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM). Benefits, Trends And Issues According to Jenkins, there are two main benefits that should be received from using CMMS software: Customer service and quality control. For customer service, the CMMS soft-ware should include: Trackable communication with e-mail integration Customized surveys Mass e-mailing capability Customizable forms Upper management escalation Reports. “For quality control, the software should include the ability to do on-site inspections, inspection completion, accountability and trends reports and job scheduling of servic-es (daily and periodic),” adds Jenkins. “Other features would include time tracking, supply inventory, job costing, workloading and asset management. [And,] the CMMS software must be web-based and accessi-ble 24/7.” Generally, the success of your CMMS program will depend on three variables: Your homework, your ability to integrate newer technologies and employee buy-in. This product category is customer-driven Certifiably green. Undeniably clean. The HOST ® Dry Carpet Cleaning System is the undeniable choice for green carpet cleaning. Superior results that save time, water and energy. A healthier environment inside and a greener one outside. HOST is the greenest way to clean your carpet – period. To see for yourself, call 800-558-9439 or visit www.hostdry.com © 2008 Racine Industries Circle Product Information no. 207 on page 32 Circle Product Information no. 210 on page 32 34 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ® • May 2009
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