2. Work closely with key departments. Good planning is critical to your success. Include members of the production, planning, purchasing, operations, and IT departments on your CMMS planning team, because these departments are most affected by a new solution. Let them tell you which business processes need improvement. Then hammer out agreeable objectives mapped to new business processes. It’s often a good strategy to place some easy ones on top of the list, so you can celebrate some victories early on.

3. Budget realistically. Be a bit pessimistic when it comes to the budget, to avoid the painful process of increasing cost estimates. CMMS customization, and integration with existing software, present two big expenses. Implementation and ongoing maintenance have real costs as well. Make sure you factor in all of these expenses during the early stages of your CMMS deployment.

4. Organize maintenance data. The underlying maintenance data is the backbone of a computerized maintenance management system. Most companies store duplicate and outdated data in multiple locations. Putting this data in a unified database, scrubbing it, and making it available to the entire organization before implementation will make for a smooth rollout. If necessary, get help from vendors who offer data-cleansing services.

5. Lead the project from the top down. Experts agree that the number one reason CMMS implementations don’t work is that senior executives fail to lead. After all, if managers don’t work hard to ensure CMMS success, why should employees? It’s not just about signing paperwork and attending meetings. Executives must adopt the CMMS as a corporate-level initiative, dedicate significant time and energy, motivate stakeholders, and keep everyone on track.

6. Find a reliable vendor and select functionality conservatively. Shop for a financially secure vendor with proven ability to expand the solution as your company grows. Beware of providers that rely heavily on partners for key functionality. When considering industry-specific software, make sure to find out if it really delivers on its promise. Talk to other corporate users in your field. Try out the software. Choose enough functionality to meet your business needs without sending your IT department on endless quests for the Holy Grail.

7. Implement gradually. Change is never easy. In the case of a computerized maintenance management system, employees especially may fear the accountability involved in posting data that exposes true performance. Start your CMMS initiative in a single department that stands to benefit the most in the short term; then follow with a zealous, company-wide CMMS proponent. When others witness the initial success of the first department, bringing everyone on board will be much easier.

8. Market CMMS to employees and deliver ongoing training. It may sound obvious, but it’s important to remember that employees have to use the solution in order for it to work. Clearly communicate how it will help them succeed, and start CMMS training early on. This way, you’ll chip away faster at the 18 to 24 months it typically takes employees to adopt new business processes.

9. Actively manage the implementation. Technical difficulties, management turnover, employee resistance, and adjustments in company direction are predictable. Managers need to stay on their toes and quickly address changes to maintain momentum.

10. Develop a culture of continuous improvement. CMMS solutions should be adjusted to deliver a sharper competitive edge as a company and its business evolve. Be sure to keep employees in the communication loop, so they can help supply the information needed to continuously improve how the system leverages asset and maintenance history data.

Not all companies will achieve CMMS success because many fail to take into account the items listed above. For the ones who do succeed, however, the rewards are great. Stick to these steps, and you will rig the game in your favor.

The post 10 Steps to a Successful CMMS Implementation appeared first on MPulse Software.

If your company is like most, you first had to convince senior management and your finance department of the value of CMMS software. Maybe you needed to prepare a formal return on investment (ROI) analysis. You probably also checked in with IT to discuss the potential network impact and application support requirements.

Surely, you worked to develop buy-in from those who’d actually be using the new system. They all needed to feel comfortable it would help, not hinder, their work.

Now you’re there. The purchase has been made. So what’s next? How will you turn that successful procurement into a successful implementation?

The same people you worked with during the buying process will now be looking to you and asking, “When will I see the benefits?” You’ll be able to show them much more quickly by keeping them informed and involved through the initial implementation phase.

It’s your responsibility to maintain an open dialogue, set and manage expectations, and clearly communicate what you need from stakeholders.

Follow the guidelines below to streamline that process and avoid the typical pitfalls that kill new CMMS initiatives.

Three Steps to Success

Before you can get started, you have to know what you need from others in your organization—and how to be sure you’ll get it. Think carefully about this before you approach other stakeholders.

Make a list of the people whose help you need, and ask yourself these three questions about each.

1. What do you need from them?
2. What is the promised value they expect to receive?
3. How are you going to measure their success?

Step 1: Catalog Your Requirements

You can use a simple, multi-pass approach to organize and prioritize what’s needed from each department.

• List each department that must do something to support the CMMS implementation. Typical departments are IT, maintenance, operations, and finance.
• For each department, list the inputs they need to provide and the tasks they need to complete. For example, does IT need to increase network bandwidth? Do users in operations need to complete training? Will maintenance evaluate pilot runs of the system?
• For each departmental responsibility, indicate if it is required “Day 1”or if it can be scheduled for a subsequent phase of implementation. The quickest way to get bogged down is to think of your implementation as an “all or nothing” undertaking. Think “Day 1” and “what comes next” instead.

Step 2: Clearly Convey Pledged Value

Each department has already been promised something of value from the CMMS implementation.

Operations and production were promised better service at reduced cost from the maintenance team. Senior management and finance were promised a good return on investment. IT may have been promised an easy fit with their server and network infrastructure, and responsive vendor support.

Write out a short list of the anticipated benefits you’re trying to achieve for each of these departments, and (re)communicate them carefully and specifically to each. Also communicate specifically to each what you’ll need from them to achieve those goals.

Step 3: Set SMART Goals

Step 1 and Step 2 defined what you need and what you’re promising. Step 3 is about how you’ll measure it.

Use SMART criteria to help departments set implementation goals that are

• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Relevant, and
• Time-bound.

Being this specific will help set mutual expectations clearly and keep your implementation project on track, without disagreements about what was promised by who or when it was to be delivered.

Heroes Don’t Fail

Major system implementations are never easy. If you follow these three steps, though, you’ll help avoid some of the major “traps” that kill many promising projects. You’ll be your company’s CMMS implementation hero, and not just another implementation “fail.”

The post Avoid a CMMS Implementation Fail appeared first on MPulse Software.

Dedicated Account Manager Services

Your MPulse Dedicated Account Manager focuses on making sure your organization gets the most out its MPulse solution. Dedicated Account Managers work with ten or fewer organizations to make sure they know each one thoroughly. MPulse Dedicated Account Manager services include…

• Regular status meetings to monitor ongoing priorities
• Resolution of post‐implementation issues such as problems, changes, enhancements, and questions
• Consulting and help with specifications for new functionality requests
• Communication between your team and MPulse engineers when requests, issues, or questions arise
• Notification of software enhancements or repair

Dedicated Account Manager Features

When you subscribe to our MPulse Dedicated Account Manager service, you’ll receive…

• Custom contact and case creation
  • Dedicated support email
  • Direct number to your Dedicated Account Manager’s mobile phone (during business hours)
• A Service Level Agreement (SLA) for managed response times
  • 4-hour response upon submission of open ticket
  • 24-hour resolution or plan for resolution upon ticket submission
• Regular, scheduled status meetings with all stakeholders

Subscription Costs

The Dedicated Account Manager program is a premium subscription service which ensures your organization’s ongoing success with MPulse. Subscriptions are calculated at 10% ($2K min) of the current software retail value at the time of purchase.

Dedicated Account Manager services are in addition to—and only available to customers with—current Maintenance & Support Program subscriptions.

It is also highly recommended that your CMMS databases are either hosted by MPulse or otherwise accessible by your Dedicated Account Manager.

Contact us today to find out more about how your MPulse Dedicated Account Manager can help you achieve maintenance success!

The post Dedicated Account Manager appeared first on MPulse Software.

If you’re an existing MPulse customer who’s already worked through any of our other MPulse Software training and implementation services, MPulse Reset is for you. MPulse Reset can also help you reconfigure your workflows and benchmarks, and then determine where adjustments to your software can help.

MPulse Reset makes the most of your time and budget by delivering our best implementation and consulting services remotely through the latest virtual meeting and collaboration technology.

The #1 reason CMMS initiatives fail is incomplete implementation.

Comprehensive Service, Minimal Disruption

The MPulse Reset program covers all the phases of a successful process review. You’ll be assigned an MPulse Senior Trainer/Implementation Engineer who’ll spend up to 8 focused hours guiding you through our time-tested program improvement review.

Planning Meeting

• Perform a revised needs analysis
• Establish goals
• Refine work processes
• Determine adjustments in reports and the database layout
• Develop a training plan and curriculum

Upon completion of your planning meeting, we’ll provide the following assistance, as needed, based on what we learned.

MPulse Data Review

• Review current MPulse data
• Clean up existing data as needed
• Determine new data to collect
• Import new data into the MPulse database

Online Instruction

• Prepare for implementation of new workflows and KPIs
• Simulate real scenarios using your own data
• Ensure your key players are up and running

Dedicated Follow-up

• To help ensure your goals are achieved, we offer follow-up consulting and additional action plans as needed

With MPulse Reset, you can rest assured you’re following a comprehensive process to drive results.

A Goal-Oriented Approach

Upon completion of MPulse Reset, you’ll have

• A clear implementation adjustment plan based on updated benchmarks and key performance indicators (KPI)
• A timeline with goal-based milestones and efficiency goals
• Revisions to your MPulse database to support your plan
• Redesigned workflows to meet your objectives
• Instruction on any revised workflows or MPulse features
• A plan for additional training as required

What If I Need More?

If you complete our MPulse Reset service and then decide onsite training services will best serve your goals, the price paid for MPulse Reset can be applied toward the purchase price of the MPulse Assess, Adjust, and Implement (AAI) service. For more information, contact us at (800) 944-1796 (USA and Canada) or +1 (541) 302-6677.

The post MPulse Reset Program Datasheet appeared first on MPulse Software.

The MPulse Multi-site Implementation Program (MSIP) is a CMMS implementation program designed to take you from software purchase through successful implementation across two or more site locations, without missing any critical steps along the way. If you want to standardize your workflow processes and reporting across locations, this MPulse implementation program will get you there.

A Goal-Oriented Approach

Putting a CMMS/EAM solution in place across multiple locations can seem daunting. MPulse MSIP gets you through planning, data migration, training, and “go-live” day on each site so your processes, reporting needs, data types, and data imports are the same at each location. Then we provide tailored recommendations and follow-up so you can measure your progress against goals.

Designed to accelerate your software implementation and reduce your ramp-up time, MPulse MSIP minimizes disruptions and helps you achieve a faster return on investment.

The Multisite Connector is recommended for the Multi-site Implementation Program, but not required.

Comprehensive Service, Minimal Disruption

Our intensive program covers all the phases of a successful implementation across multiple site locations.

With the MPulse MSIP, you can rest assured you’re following a comprehensive process to drive results.

Implementation at Flagship Location

You’ll choose the flagship location to serve as the primary site model for implementation. Then you’ll be assigned an MPulse Account Manager and a Senior MPulse Engineer, who’ll guide you the whole way through.

Flagship Location Planning Meeting (Day 1)

• Define successful implementation
• Define user groups and workflows
• Determine what data needs to be imported
• Review and/or import data collection spreadsheet
• Design reports and a database layout
• Develop a training plan and curriculum

Flagship Location Comprehensive Software Training (Days 2–4)

• Tailored to implementation goals
• Primary users (managers/admins)
• “Drop-in” users (maintenance technicians)

Flagship Location “Go-Live” Day (Day 5)

• Site implementation launch

Implementation at Additional Site Locations

After successful completion at the flagship location, implementation services will occur on the additional sites so all processes, reporting needs, data types, and data imports are standardized across the locations. For each additional location, MPulse will follow the planning meeting report with data collection consistent with the flagship implementation plan.

Additional Site Locations Comprehensive Software Training (Days 1–3)

• Data import
• Training and consulting services tailored to implementation goals
  • Primary users (managers/admins)
  • “Drop-in” users (maintenance technicians)

Additional Site Locations “Go-Live” Day (Day 4)

• Site implementation launch

The post Multi-site Implementation Program Datasheet appeared first on MPulse Software.

Key Benefits

• Live virtual classroom environment
• Focused instruction away from day-to-day operational demands
• Highly interactive
• Real-world scenario discussions
• Small class size
• No travel costs
• Great value

Classes cover all MPulse editions, and multiple seats can be purchased to ensure all necessary personal can attend.

Target Audience

Maintenance staff responsible for configuring and managing CMMS and/or daily work order administration.

Description

MPulse Fundamentals focuses on the core functionality of MPulse, its application to data, and maintenance management concepts. This one-day course includes six, one-hour sessions, plus attendees can ask direct questions at the end of the day. Every session is followed by a 5-10 minute break, and includes a one-hour lunch break. Attendees will receive a compilation of the content relevant to each session and a recording.

Limited to one person per seat, with additional seats available for purchase.

Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies

See our Services Policies at https://mpulsesoftware.com/mpulse-service-policies.

The post MPulse Fundamentals appeared first on MPulse Software.

A successful maintenance management program requires more than just great software. You need well-trained people who know how to use it, and you need a solution set up right to work with your company’s assets and business processes.

The MPulse Assess, Adjust, and Implement (AAI) program begins with a comprehensive assessment of your current state. Then, it concludes with training and services to assist you in implementing improvements. AAI includes onsite implementation and training services, giving you hands-on support from our MPulse experts.

Who is AAI For?

AAI is for MPulse customers who want to get more out of their implementation. It’s an ideal option for “rebooting” a waning program or finding ways to squeeze more efficiency out of an already successful one.

Key Benefits

• Improved results
• Optimized processes
• Renewed focus on maintenance management discipline
• Identifying new ways to use the full range of MPulse’s robust feature set
• Expand use of MPulse throughout the enterprise
• Comprehensive Service, Minimal Disruption

Comprehensive Service, Minimal Disruption

Our intensive program covers all the phases of a successful implementation. You’ll be assigned a Senior MPulse Engineer who’ll guide you the whole way through.

Kickoff Meeting

• Perform a collaborative needs analysis
• Establish goals
• Develop a plan for training curriculum, MPulse data clean up, and/or migration
• Create work processes
• Design reports and a database layout
• Assign responsibilities
• Import/clean up data in the MPulse database
• Stakeholders receive instruction from your MPulse Engineer/Trainer
• Simulate real scenarios using your own data
• Ensure your key players are up and running

“Go Live” Day Options

• Develop asset records
• Build preventive maintenance schedules
• Set up user groups
• Create work orders
• Enter service requests
• Test workflows
• Build dashboards

Sessions

• Day 1: Planning Meeting/Consulting/Adjustments/Software Training
• Day 2-3: Consulting/Adjustments/Software Training
• Day 4: “Go Live”

MPulse Implementation Success Guarantee

We’re so sure you’ll see results with the AAI program, we offer the MPulse Implementation Success Guarantee. Contact us to learn how we back up our promises.

The post Assess, Adjust, and Implement (AAI) Datasheet appeared first on MPulse Software.

The MPulse Assured Implementation Program (AIP) is a software implementation program designed to take you from software purchase through successful implementation, without missing any critical steps along the way.

Our most comprehensive program, AIP gets you through planning, data migration, installation, training, and “go-live” day. Then we provide tailored recommendations and follow-up so you can measure your progress against goals.

Putting a CMMS/EAM solution in place can seem like a daunting task. The MPulse AIP is specifically designed to accelerate your software implementation and reduce your ramp up time. By combining business process consulting with software implementation and a custom-designed training curriculum, the MPulse AIP minimizes disruptions and helps you achieve a faster return on investment.

Goal-Oriented Approach

Upon completion of the MPulse AIP, you’ll have…

• A clear implementation plan
• A timeline with goal-based milestones and efficiency goals
• An MPulse database to support your implementation plan
• Training delivered to key users
• An implemented work order management system

Comprehensive Service, Minimal Disruption

Our intensive program covers all the phases of a successful implementation. You’ll be assigned a Senior MPulse Engineer/Trainer, who’ll guide you the whole way through.

Kickoff Meeting

• Perform a collaborative needs analysis
• Establish goals
• Assign responsibilities
• Create work processes
• Review data
• Import data
• Design reports and a database layout
• Develop a training plan and curriculum
• Review legacy applications (if applicable)

Software Training and Implementation

• Stakeholders receive instruction from your MPulse Engineer/Trainer
• Simulate real scenarios using your own data
• Ensure your key players are up andrunning

“Go Live” Day Options

• Develop asset records
• Build preventive maintenance schedules
• Set up user groups
• Create work orders
• Enter service requests
• Test workflows
• Build dashboards

Sessions

• Day 1: Planning Meeting
• Day 2-4: Consulting/Software Training
• Day 5: “Go Live”

MPulse Implementation Success Guarantee

We’re so sure you’ll see results with the AIP, we offer the MPulse Implementation Success Guarantee. Contact us to learn how we back up our promises.

The post Assured Implementation Program (AIP) Datasheet appeared first on MPulse Software.

Own Your Data

With the AHS, you own the user rights to the MPulse application, databases, any custom configurations you’ve created, and any data you’ve entered into the application. You own your data and can access it at any time. And, if at any time you decide to take your application hosting in-house, we’ll help with the transfer as part of your MSP subscription.

World Class Technology + World Class Hosting

We’ve combined MPulse’s world-class software with a worldclass data center managed by Rackspace, the #1 managed cloud company. That means your users can access the MPulse application via web browser from anywhere with a reliable highspeed Internet connection. All connectivity is through standard web ports, and in most cases no special configuration is required. You focus on maintenance; we’ll take care of your cloud hosting!

Efficient, Fast, Secure

The MPulse Application Hosting Service gives you…

• Lower infrastructure costs
• Less technical complexity
• A more solid and secure hosting environment
• Faster connections
• Better performance
• A server capacity that’s double the standard installation requirements
• High reliability
• Fast implementation of patches, updates, and upgrades

Rackspace (NYSE: RAX), the #1 managed cloud company, helps businesses tap the power of cloud computing without the complexity and cost of managing it on their own. Rackspace engineers deliver specialized expertise, easy-to-use tools, and Fanatical Support® for leading technologies developed by AWS, Google, Microsoft, OpenStack, VMware, and others. The company serves approximately 300,000 businesses worldwide, including two-thirds of the FORTUNE 100. Rackspace was named a leader in the 2015 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud-Enabled Managed Hosting, and has been honored by Fortune, Forbes, and others as one of the best companies to work for. Learn more at www.rackspace.com.

The post Application Hosting Service (AHS) Datasheet appeared first on MPulse Software.

The MPulse Standard Implementation Program provides hands-on instruction designed to help new users of our software get quickly up to speed.

Many companies use MPulse Standard Implementation Program to support their train-the-trainer programs, so your MPulse super users are ready to teach the rest of your team.

Remote or On-Site Instruction

Available with your choice of either remote or on-site instruction, MPulse SIP provides instruction on skills necessary to successfully navigate, configure, and use your MPulse implementation.

Work with MPulse trainers to review maintenance management best practices and then apply these practices to your MPulse implementation to meet your organization’s CMMS goals. MPulse Standard Implementation Program covers all MPulse editions, and can be attended by as many of your personnel as you deem necessary.

Benefits of MPulse Standard Implementation Program

• Live instruction
• Highly interactive
• Remote or on-site instruction
• Real-world scenario discussions
• Great value

Training Topics

• System specifics
• Work order management
• Scheduled maintenance management
• Setup system
• Inventory management
• Reporting
• Go Live

A successful maintenance management program requires more than just great software. You need well-trained people who know how to use it, and you need a solution set up right to work with your company’s assets and business processes.

MPulse Standard Implementation Program can markedly accelerate your success. Contact us to get started.

Cancellation Policy

MPulse strives to conduct training sessions as scheduled, but we are occasionally forced to cancel for reasons beyond our control. MPulse reserves the right to cancel when these things occur. We make every reasonable effort to notify customers as soon as possible.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

See our Services Policies at https://mpulsesoftware.com/mpulse-service-policies.

The post MPulse Standard Implementation Program appeared first on MPulse Software.