MAPCON CMMS Blog

June 10, 2025

Work Orders vs. Purchase Orders: What's the Difference

What are the differences between work orders and purchase orders? Each represents a fundamental document within an organization. Each serves a specific purpose in the operational framework. While often interconnected, they have different processing and information.

This article will discuss each document, the information contained within each, its relevance to a maintenance department and the company in general, and how a computerized maintenance management system handles both.

June 09, 2025

The Significance of the Asset Break-In Period in Equipment Lifespan

What is the significance of the asset break-in period in equipment lifespan? The initial operational phase of newly acquired assets carries considerable weight in the overall lifecycle of equipment. This crucial stage marks the transition of an asset from its manufactured or installed state toward consistent and effective operation. Careful attention and proactive measures during this period lay the groundwork for prolonged asset life and dependable performance. Understanding the nuances of this phase proves vital for any organization that relies on physical assets for its operations.

What Is the Asset Break-In Period– and Why It's Crucial

The asset break-in period represents the initial timeframe following the installation or deployment of a new piece of equipment. During this phase, the asset begins its operational life, and various internal and external factors come into play. It is a period of adjustment, where components settle, and the system as a whole adapts to its working environment. This stage necessitates close monitoring and potential adjustments to ensure the asset achieves its intended operational capacity and reliability.

June 05, 2025

Top Property Maintenance Requests: How to Handle Work Requests Efficiently

Property management means a whirlwind of tasks. You have maintenance requests from tenants and clients. These requests vary from property to property and day to day. This article will delve into ten common property maintenance requests, offering insights into effective handling and the role of a CMMS in streamlining the process.

June 04, 2025

10 Essential Maintenance Inspections to Prevent Costly Breakdowns

Part of preventive maintenance (PM) includes inspections. These don't necessarily have to require complicated routines or take much time. Sometimes, inspections take a cursory look to make sure all is well and operating as normal. However, you shouldn't underestimate their importance. Read further for ten maintenance inspections you should do.

Why Regular Maintenance Inspections Matter

Do you benefit from inspections? Use the analogy of not "inspecting" your rearview mirror regularly while driving. Sure, you might get lucky, but you risk problems in the future. Let's look at a few important points.

• Prevent costly breakdowns: Equipment failures can bring operations to a screeching halt. This downtime can turn into a major expense. A timely inspection can identify a minor issue, like a worn bearing or a leaking seal. Resolving this helps prevent a catastrophic breakdown, saving you thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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June 03, 2025

Conveyor Maintenance Tips to Prevent Downtime and Boost Efficiency

Many industries use conveyors in their operations. From automotive to construction to food processing. Even the postal services. Because of the wide usage, companies need to understand the importance of conveyor maintenance.

In this article, we'll discuss the following:

• The Importance of Preventive Maintenance (PM).
• Common Conveyor Maintenance Issues to Watch For.
• How to Build a Regular Conveyor Maintenance Schedule.
• How Technology Enhances Conveyor Maintenance.

June 02, 2025

How to Build a Successful Maintenance Team That Delivers

Some companies struggle with assets and inventory issues. When they look, they see disorganization. Then they wonder how to create a successful maintenance department.

This article will explore the solutions to that dilemma. Read on for the following:

• The Purpose of a Maintenance Team in Modern Operations.
• Key Roles in a Well-Managed Maintenance Team.
• The Characteristics of a Successful Maintenance Team.
• Setting Goals for Maintenance Team Success.
• How to Boost Maintenance Team Productivity.
• Creating a Strong Culture Within Your Maintenance Team.
• How a CMMS Supports a Successful Maintenance Team.

May 29, 2025

Understanding Acoustic Analysis and Its Real-World Benefits

Many industries rely on technicians' understanding of acoustic analysis. As you read further, you'll see where this helps company assets last longer, increases productivity and efficiency, and helps to develop better quality products. In this article, we'll explore the following:

• What Is Acoustic Analysis and Why Does It Matter?
• Key Types of Acoustic Analysis Across Industries.
• Top Acoustic Analysis Benefits and Common Challenges.
• How a CMMS Enhances Acoustic Analysis Efficiency.

What Is Acoustic Analysis and Why Does It Matter?

Answer: The scientific study of sound and its properties. It involves the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of sound waves to understand their characteristics and impact. This discipline pertains to a wide range of fields. From engineering and architecture to medicine and environmental science.

May 28, 2025

Top Industrial Maintenance Tools Every Technician Needs

A manufacturing or production facility relies on industrial maintenance. It ensures the smooth operation of machinery, prevents breakdowns, and maximizes productivity. To do the job, technicians must properly equip themselves with industrial maintenance tools.

This article delves into the essentials, protective gear, and organizational strategies for industrial maintenance, as well as the diverse roles within the maintenance team and the benefits of a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

Essential Industrial Maintenance Tools for Every Job

Of course, each industry will have specialized tools for individual needs. Even specific companies within the same industry will differ in requirements. However, a comprehensive kit should include many of the following.

May 27, 2025

Total Productive Maintenance: Shifting Your Approach to Equipment Excellence

When answering the question of what is total productive maintenance (TPM), we can't look at it as just about keeping the machinery running. Instead, you must take a step back and consider it a mindset. Everyone in the company should have this "culture shift" that involves everyone in an organization, from the CEO to the shop floor.

Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint, where you want to wring every last drop of efficiency and quality out of your equipment. In this article, we'll look at the definition, the benefits and challenges, industrial examples, eight foundational elements, and how a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) brings about better success.

Understanding Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)

This approach involves every employee in improving equipment effectiveness. Your goals include eliminating losses, increasing productivity, and extending equipment life. This concept moves a company away from a "reactive" mentality. This thinking means you only tend to assets when they fail or break down.

May 22, 2025

Exploring Lights Out Manufacturing and Dark Factories

Do you know the future of manufacturing and other industries? It might include something known as "lights out" manufacturing, or "dark factories." In this article, we'll explore this type of operation and discuss the following:

• What Is Lights Out Manufacturing?
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Lights Out Companies.
• Industry Examples Of Lights Out Manufacturing.
• Maintenance's Role In A Lights Out Environment.
• How a CMMS Supports a Lights Out Company.