The system is generally composed of a series of modules or functional areas, each responsible for a specific maintenance operation. The diagram above represents a CMMS in its simplest form. Work orders can be triggered on dates, meter readings, process or equipment variables.
Work orders generate complete with work plans and resource requirements.
Once generated, the work order guides the work to be completed for a particular task. When the work is completed, the electronic work order must be edited to reflect the actual work that was done and the resources used. The work order is then closed and the information becomes part of the asset's permanent service history. Analysis and reports provide critical feedback for equipment monitoring and iterative improvements to the maintenance process. Additional features found in CMMS are used to support this basic model.