Upwards of 95% of all EAM software implementations fail to deliver the desired results. The underlying cause of most EAM failures can be traced back to the early stages of the implementation process. Implementation activities often cost organizations more than the software itself, so it makes sense to learn about concepts and practices that can help prevent implementation failure. It’s important to maximize your chance of success when implementing facility maintenance software in your organization. Avoid these 8 common pitfalls when implementing EAM software:
1. Failing to understand the true cost of fully implementing EAM software
EAM vendors that want to win your business will try to provide you with the most competitive bids possible. They might be reluctant to reveal implementation costs upfront for fear that they won’t be chosen for the sale. The practice of hiding the full costs of implementation isn’t uncommon in the maintenance software industry because many EAM software vendors are more interested in selling their software than fixing an organization’s problems. Be sure to select a vendor that not only offers competitively priced software but that also works closely with you to align your organization’s processes with their software’s functionality.
2. Not clearly defining requirements
An organization will struggle to achieve its facility maintenance software objectives on time and on budget if it doesn’t create a thorough implementation plan that clearly defines realistic goals, expectations, and timelines.
3. Not having a skilled implementation team
In order to bridge the gap between your organization’s current processes and the processes required to successfully use your EAM software, you need to assemble a skilled implementation team. You could use a trained internal team, if available, or hire your vendor to guide you through all phases of the implementation process.
4. Selecting the wrong EAM system
In some instances, implementation failures stem from the selection process. When choosing EAM software, it is important to identify your organization’s true requirements by listening to end users and then evaluating software against them. Avoid software that would require a high level of customization or tailoring to meet your needs.
5. Being swayed by unnecessary bells and whistles
Many EAM systems are rich in functionality, and organizations may be easily swayed by bells and whistles that they don’t truly need. Think through your priorities and choose facility maintenance software that has the functionalities most important for your organization and environment.
6. Not getting complete management buy-in
Maintenance managers stand to benefit greatly from the implementation of EAM software, but prior to launch and in the early stages of the implementation process, an EAM will require a lot of time on the maintenance manager’s part. Maintenance managers must allocate time and resources to EAM implementation, getting the system up and running while still fulfilling their regular duties. Maintenance managers are also responsible for re-engineering processes and supporting maintenance technicians through training. Therefore, it is essential to get complete management buy-in from the beginning.
7. Not bringing maintenance workers on board
When it comes to implementing EAM software, maintenance managers can’t go it alone. Maintenance workers also need to buy into the idea of making the EAM system work and understand that the software will make their lives easier. If maintenance technicians perceive the EAM software to be complex and difficult to use, they will be reluctant to cooperate and your organization will struggle to achieve the desired results from implementation.
8. Providing limited training
One of the most common causes of EAM implementation failure is a lack of training. In addition to organizing training during the implementation process, provide ongoing training as new features are added and new people join the team. Training outlines best practices for data entry and increases user adoption.
Since 1986, DPSI has implemented facility maintenance software for over 50,000 users around the world. Made for maintenance people, by maintenance people, our EAM systems are easy for maintenance personnel to understand and use. Our clients have included colleges and universities, hospitals, and commercial facilities in multiple industries. Contact us to learn more about implementing EAM software.
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