A CMMS is computer software designed to simplify maintenance management. CMMS stands for Computerized Maintenance Management System (or Software) and is sometimes referred to as Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software. To better understand what a CMMS is, we will break the term down into each individual component.

Maintenance

Maintenance is what users of CMMS software do every day, whether it’s responding to an on-demand work order for a broken window or performing routine inspection on a generator. Computer software cannot accomplish the work of a skilled technician. What it can do, however, is ensure tasks are prioritized correctly and that everything is in place (inventory, labor) to ensure success. CMMS solutions give technicians the freedom to focus less on paperwork and more on hands-on maintenance.

Management

Managing maintenance is the most essential role of a CMMS solution. Maintenance management software is designed to give users immediate insight into the state of his or her maintenance needs with comprehensive work order schedules, accurate inventory forecasts, and instant access to hundreds of invaluable reports. CMMS solutions make maintenance management easier by empowering managers with information so that they can make the most informed decisions possible.

System

A system can be thought of as the overall combination of features and capabilities within a CMMS. Different CMMS solutions offer different types of systems. The best CMMS system is one that allows users to accomplish his or her existing maintenance practices more effectively while introducing time-saving features that lead to a reduction of costs and a savings of time.