It is essential to establish specific goals for achievement in relation to the plant’s strategic and operational plans, both short- and long-term. Furthermore, targets must be set for maintenance performance in terms of equipment up time, maintenance costs, overtime, workforce productivity, and supervisors time at job sites.
Such specific targets as these enable management to monitor progress and the effectiveness of the maintenance management program and to control activities by focusing corrective attention on performances or levels that consistently fall short of the targets.
Superficial goals lead to superficial results. A clear understanding of the mission is critical to success – a positive and productive mindset results in positive and productive performance. Build a climate that helps others to motivate themselves. Always aim high and pursue those things that will make a difference rather than seeking the safe path of mediocrity. Expect the best – it generates pride.
Instead of imposing goals on subordinates, allow team members to contribute to the goal-setting process. People will feel they have control of their own environment and will raise their own standards.
Together, the Maintenance / Reliability team must set clear and mutually agreed-upon goals.
There is No “I” in the Word TEAM
People work harder to meet objectives that they help set. Clear goals lead to performance excellence. State the desired outcome in positive terms and be as specific as possible. Define goals so they are measurable. Set attainable goals and ensure they are relevant. Ask yourself whether they are economically viable.
Making Goals Visible and Actionable for Every Team Member
Once goals have been established, it is imperative that everyone knows what they are. The most effective method is through tried-and-true advertising methods. Posters showing the goals can be posted in conspicuous locations.
Maintenance and Production work together towards several common goals, all aiming for optimal operational efficiency and business success.
These shared goals include:
- Maximizing Uptime and Availability: Both departments strive to keep equipment running smoothly and reliably, ensuring production lines are operational for as long as possible.
- Reducing Downtime and Failures: A proactive maintenance approach, involving preventive and predictive strategies, minimizes unexpected breakdowns and their disruptive impact on production, thus increasing equipment availability and reducing the frequency and length of unplanned stops.
- Improving Productivity and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE): This is a key metric that reflects availability, performance, and quality, all areas where maintenance and production collaborate. By working together to improve these aspects, they enhance OEE and overall productivity.
- Enhancing Product Quality: Well-maintained equipment results in higher-quality products, leading to fewer defects and increased customer satisfaction.
- Controlling Costs: Effective maintenance management, including preventative measures and efficient resource allocation, helps to reduce operational costs, minimize emergency repair expenses, and optimize spare parts inventories.
- Ensuring Workplace Safety: Both departments share responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment, prioritizing the well-being of personnel, and adhering to safety standards.
- Extending Equipment Lifespan: Routine maintenance and preventative measures minimize wear and tear, prolonging the useful life of equipment and reducing the need for costly replacements.
- Facilitating Information Flow and Collaboration: Promoting open communication, data sharing, and cross-functional teams helps break down silos and fosters a collaborative environment where teams work together to solve problems and achieve common goals.
Ultimately, by focusing on these shared objectives and fostering a collaborative culture, Maintenance and Production can significantly contribute to the organization’s profitability, competitiveness, and overall success.
Develop the metrics process by which progress will be measured. This requires a system that makes goals simple to track so that you can reward or redirect at regular intervals. The following table illustrates such a measurable and easily tracked set of maintenance organization goals.
Benefits of Having Maintenance Goals
Having clear maintenance goals leads to reduced costs, increased efficiency, and enhanced safety. By proactively managing maintenance, businesses can minimize unexpected downtime, extend the lifespan of equipment, and optimize resource allocation. These benefits contribute to improved overall productivity and a more sustainable operation.
Attributes of Having Maintenance Goals
Maintenance goals should be “SMART”
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-bound
Addressing common challenges like insufficient funding or outdated equipment is crucial. Well-defined goals can improve equipment reliability and safety.
