The Role of Job Management Software in Reducing Downtime

Downtime is inevitable in any industry, but through the use of technology to predict upcoming maintenance needs and track workers on- and off-site, it can be minimized and – most importantly – planned for, reducing its impact.

For most companies, increasing productivity is always high on their list of things to achieve. However, this is not something that can be done in a day. One way in which businesses can become more efficient is by reducing their downtime and the right job management software can go a long way towards helping them to achieve this.

Studies indicate that around 82% of companies across a range of industries have had at least one unplanned downtime in the last 3 years. Perhaps more shockingly, 99% of all companies both large and small, have suffered from hourly downtimes that have caused significant financial costs to their company.

Types of downtime

Downtime occurs where important equipment is not available to use. This could leave you unable to complete jobs or even know who the next client you need to visit is and where they are located. Downtime refers to the time when equipment is offline and cannot be used, if equipment is broken this would not be considered within the same umbrella of business problems.

There are two main types of downtime, and it is important to recognize that not all downtime is truly damaging. Some types of downtime can be useful. For example, in some cases, downtime can be used as a way to raise productivity in other ways. 

Planned downtime 

This means you will have calculated the best time for the downtime, so it causes the least disruption. It can often be at the end of the day when most, or all, employees have left the building and when equipment is not normally needed. In other words, it is beneficial to the company and almost unnoticeable

Unplanned downtime 

This does not benefit the company in the same way. It can’t be planned for and could be the result of various disruptions such as power cuts, a loss of internet connection or other unforeseeable interruptions. It could even be the result of an accident in the workplace.

 Ways to reduce downtime

Fortunately, there are a number of ways in which you can reduce downtime. These include:

• Maintenance training – When you have employees on site who can maintain your machines, you reduce the chance of unexpected downtime.
• Apply risk management strategies – Preventative maintenance should be part of your risk management plan and can help to prevent the chance of unforeseen downtime.
• Track maintenance – Keep an eye on your maintenance indicators. This will help you to avoid downtime and, in the event that it occurs, reduce its time frame.
• Job management software – Designed to streamline your workflow both for onsite and offsite employees, this is a centralized hub that will help you to keep track of tasks and employee activity. Employees in one location may not be able to see their next tasks due to unplanned downtime. However, those with access to software will be able to see some details.

Job management software also allows employees who spot an issue with equipment to flag the issue instantly. This will then allow the correct maintenance procedures to be put in place as soon as possible, thereby reducing the downtime.

It is not possible to eradicate all downtime, and every company will face some issues with downtime at some point. However, some measures can be put in place that will keep this to a minimum. A well-thought-out maintenance plan and effective job management software solutions will make a significant difference.

This article was written by IntelligentHQ from IntelligentHQ and was legally licensed through the DiveMarketplace by Industry Dive. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.