CMMS Mobile Apps: Enhancing Accessibility and Efficiency in Maintenance

Maintenance
Facility Management
Published on:
September 27, 2024
Read Time:
8
min

Did you know when was the first CMMS introduced? 

The history of CMMS dates back to 1959 when it was first presented at the International Machine Tool Exhibition in Paris. It was manufactured by Ferranti, a British company that also developed the first commercial computer for a general audience in 1951.

Since 1960, the CMMS has undergone massive development in technology, features, and functionality. In the beginning, it was all basic systems that were combined to streamline the maintenance process. It was mainly for companies that deal with manufacturing, inventory, and equipment. The features of old CMMS were only scheduling and tracking maintenance tasks. CMMS of the past was on-prem software which was installed on computers and servers. It can only be used within business hours. 

So, when did the major evolution happen?

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The CMMS sector took a big step between year 2000 to 2010.

It converted to web-based solutions due to the increased accessibility of the internet. The benefits of the new CMMS were abundant as one can access it anytime from anywhere with internet-connected devices. 

It was a huge change in the history of CMMS.

As a result, the benefits of CMMS were increased from being only a maintenance software to a complete operations management tool which resulted in bigger cost savings. IT professionals can no longer be called for on-premises installations as one can easily buy or subscribe to the plan online.  

In 2010, the traditional CMMS took a huge turn. It expands to smartphones and tablets and is thus called CMMS mobile applications.

It was a major development in the limitations and functionalities of CMMS.

Maintenance teams can now manage large teams, work orders, asset data collection and arrangement, reporting, analytics, and much more from on-the-go handheld smart devices like phones and tablets. CMMS Mobile apps have completely changed the way people access and input their data on the systems. 

In this post, we will learn more about the CMMS Mobile App, its features, and benefits, and also get to know the best solution for managing your maintenance, quality control, frontline workforce teams, and much more. 

Introduction to CMMS Mobile App

A CMMS Mobile app refers to the CMMS software that is developed to be used on smartphones and tablets. This version of CMMS makes it possible for maintenance teams to access and manage their tasks on the go or directly from the field. 

Compared to the desktop CMMS version, the mobile app can do a lot more for instance you can share maintenance requests, work orders, assets and inventory details, preventive maintenance, and KPIs of your frontline workforce. 

However, there are some teeny-tiny setbacks in CMMS mobile apps that don’t have all the features that you would find in the desktop variant. Also, some tasks are better performed on a desktop for example customizing checklists, reports, and forms, creating templates, detailed administration settings, data collection and extraction, and more advanced settings such as integrations and configurations. 

Why choose the CMMS Mobile App when you could opt for the desktop version? Are you seeking more convincing reasons?

So, here is the answer!

CMMS Mobile apps have been on the rise due to various factors. First, they offer great convenience and flexibility for people who work in the field such as technicians, inspection, and maintenance workers as they are often on the move. Secondly, Mobile devices enable real-time access to task details, asset data, work order history, and other critical forms or templates. Let’s explore more about the features of CMMS Mobile Apps and whether you should get it or not. 

Features and Functionalities of CMMS Mobile Apps

Below are five essential CMMS Mobile App Features:

  1. Offline Functionality 

Sometimes, maintenance work occurs in areas where they have limited to no internet connectivity. This affects real-time access to data and updates. Many CMMS Mobile apps allow users to perform tasks offline and sync their data once their network is restored.  

  1. Real-Time Task Updates

CMMS mobile apps have the capability of providing real-time updates. Just like we use social media apps on on phones the CMMS also gives you push notifications. Users can receive alerts about work orders, updates, and leftover maintenance work. The real-time updates allow managers and technicians to stay updated on work status and informed about their teams, and to respond to them promptly when any emergency happens. 

  1. QR code and Barcode Scanning 

Scanning QR codes and barcodes is another great functionality of CMMS Mobile Apps. Whether the codes are connected with locations, machinery, and equipment, by scanning through your phone you can get all details and create work orders based on that information. Codes can also include inspection-related data like manuals, work history, and SOPs. 

  1. Photos, Videos and Recordings 

In CMMS mobile apps, the device camera plays an essential role. Images are one of the most valuable assets in maintenance tasks and you can easily capture them through your app and attach them to a document of your choice. Photos, videos, and recordings can easily be sent to any team member within the platform or attached to work orders. 

  1. All-in-one Mobile Accessibility 

Most CMMS mobile apps can run on both IOS and Android phones. It is the best part of CMMS to be accessible to all users. The best CMMS should be responsible and compatible will all screen sizes such as smartphones and tablets. 

Benefits of CMMS Mobile App

The evolution of traditional CMMS to Mobile apps resulted in numerous benefits. Some of them are mentioned below:

  • Ease of Work: A robust CMMS Mobile app accelerates work speed, mainly the creation, assigning, and completion of tasks and work orders. 
  • Notifications and Alerts: It provides timely alerts on your mobile devices for prioritization and escalation of tasks according to urgency. 
  • Remote Accessibility: You can access data anywhere, anytime enabling quick and informed decisions about your tasks and team. 
  • Accurate Data: The mobile platform offers a robust solution to improving data precision, moving away from traditional handwritten notes and paper-based methods to clear, digital instructions.
  • Photo Attachments: Enhance communication and accountability by easily uploading images directly into the system.

Use Cases of CMMS Mobile Apps

1. Hospitality and Tourism 

For the upkeep of hotels, resorts, and guest houses, Mobile CMMS is being widely used. It helps teams maintain guest rooms, HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems, kitchens, and recreational areas. The CMMS facilitates the scheduling of preventive maintenance tasks, work order management, and equipment performance tracking.

2. Food and Beverage

The food and beverage sector is highly reliant on Mobile CMMS apps for maintenance activities for equipment, production lines, and facilities. Food and Beverage sector includes restaurants, food processing factories, and distillation breweries. 

3. Local Agencies and Public Departments 

Local Government Agencies, municipalities, and public works departments are also utilizing CMMS systems to maintain their public infrastructures such as roads, bridges, parks, and water systems. Mobile CMMS apps help in monitoring work orders, organizing maintenance task schedules, overseeing preventive maintenance, and maintaining asset information.  

4. Healthcare and Clinics 

Hospitals, Clinics, and other healthcare facilities are using Mobile CMMS apps to manage preventive maintenance tasks, schedule inspections, and track compliance with regulatory requirements. It also helps in reducing equipment downtime and improving patient care. 

5. Energy and Utilities 

The energy sector also relies on Mobile CMMS to maintain its equipment and infrastructure which includes power generation plants, water filtration and treatment plants, oil refineries, and more. The Mobile CMMS helps them manage their preventive maintenance, and critical assets while minimizing costly downtime. 

6. Transportation Sector 

The transportation and fleet management sector uses CMMS Mobile apps to manage their vehicles, aircraft, or shipping equipment. It also assists them in tracking maintenance schedules, recording repairs and inspections, managing spare parts inventory, and optimizing maintenance resources.

7. Manufacturing 

Mobile maintenance software helps the manufacturing sector in the upkeep of their complex machinery, equipment, and production lines. A CMMS ensures proactive planning, lessens production loss, and maximizes asset utilization. 

8. Facilities Management 

CMMS Mobile apps are widely used in facilities management which includes various sectors such as hospitals, commercial buildings, shopping malls, etc.

IN this context, these programs allow frontline teams to manage diverse assets such as HVAC and electrical systems, lighting, elevators, and plumbing. The software solution also helps manage additional places that require maintenance such as security, fleet, and groundskeeping. 

Xenia - Mobile First CMMS Solution For Multi-Sized; Multi Location Facitlities

Xenia is a frontline workforce management software that facilitates teams to manage their maintenance, operations, safety, and compliance.

This software provides a comprehensive mobile CMMS experience with an intuitive interface and robust set of features. 

From work order management, preventive maintenance, asset management, audits, and inspections, it provides a seamless mobile experience. Xenia is a lightweight tool that offers core CMMS functionalities at an affordable price as compared to others. 

Key Features: 

  • Work Orders: Task management and preventive maintenance with template attachments. 
  • Reporting & Analytics: Detailed data tracking and easy report organization and exports.
  • Communication: Internal chats integrate with work orders for accountability and teamwork.
  • Templates and SOPs: Public template library with hundreds of checklists, logs, inspections, and SOPs.
  • Customized Templates: Template builder for process customization and continuous improvement. 
  • Simple and Affordable: Easy-to-use platform with low implementation risk. 
  • Document and Record Management: Attach unlimited images to work orders for transparency, save files, PDFs, and more. 
  • Multi-location operations: Locations feature to designate and monitor work at different site-wide areas.

Pricing: 

  • Free Forever Plan: Starting at $0 for up to 5 users
  • Starter Plan: Starting at $49 per month for first 20 users
  • Premium Plan(*Best Value): Starting at $99 per month for the first 20 users and unlimited access to core features
  • Custom Plan: Contact us for more details, or Get a Free Demo Today!

Bottom Line:

CMMS has transformed a lot since they were first introduced in the 1960’s.

With the advent of technology, all maintenance software has reached new heights, making it possible for for teams to manage their tasks, and work orders for remote locations.

With real-time notifications, alerts, and updates, all maintenance tasks can be done in a more standardized way. 

While choosing the best CMMS Mobile app, it is necessary to assess its features and how it aligns with your needs and workflows. Xenia is one of the leading mobile maintenance software in the market that can operate on both desktop and mobile and provide satisfactory solutions for your workplace needs, no matter what your industry and niche are. 

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