Digital transformation is revolutionising maintenance tasks by creating a connected workforce empowered with advanced tools and technologies such as real-time data, wearable devices, and digital workflows. Keith Tilley, Chief Executive of Intoware, explores the benefits this transformation offers maintenance teams.
In today’s fast-evolving industrial landscape, the concept of the “connected workforce” is becoming increasingly important, driven by digital advancements that streamline operations, enhance productivity, and foster a collaborative working environment.
But what exactly is a connected workforce?
A connected workforce refers to employees who are seamlessly integrated with digital tools and systems, enabling real-time communication, data sharing, and collaborative problem-solving.
This connectivity is not just about having access to the internet or mobile devices, but utilising tools and technologies such as digital workflows to boost productivity and reduce downtime.
In the context of maintenance tasks, creating a connected workforce through digital transformation can lead to significant improvements in several key areas:
- Preventive maintenance involves regular inspections, servicing, and upkeep of equipment to prevent breakdowns and prolong lifespan. A centralised digital platform allows maintenance teams to access equipment manuals, standard operating procedures, and maintenance histories, enabling efficient performance of routine tasks.
- Corrective maintenance is required to restore functionality when equipment malfunctions or breaks down. Accessing digital work instructions using a tool such as Intoware’s WorkfloPlus, which outlines step-by-step procedures for diagnosing issues and repairing components, minimises downtime and maximises productivity
- Predictive maintenance leverages real-time data to forecast machine failures, enabling proactive maintenance and better resource management. Digital transformation facilitates easy access to this data.
- Condition-based maintenance relies on real-time monitoring and analysis of equipment condition. Digitalisation allows maintenance teams to assess equipment health, trigger tasks based on actual conditions, and take proactive measures to prevent failures.
- Shutdown maintenance during planned shutdowns involves comprehensive inspections, overhauls, and major repairs. A connected workforce utilising digital tools transforms this process by providing a centralised place for equipment information, work instructions, and safety guidelines, ensuring compliance and efficient task execution.
WorkfloPlus Case study
Centranz, which specialises in remanufacturing transmissions for off-highway equipment, including Volvo, ZF, Allison, Funk and Fuji, introduced WorkfloPlus to simplify and streamline its reporting process. The Centranz team uses the technology during component failure evaluations, disassembling and maintaining transmissions to identify root causes and potential future failures.
The company captures details and communicates findings to customers through failure analysis reports, including detailed descriptions and images/videos that clarify solutions.
Previously, this process used pencil and paper illustrations, mobile phone photos, and verbal or email communication.
David Crowther, Sales Representative at Centranz, explained, WorkfloPlus ensures consistent and clear reporting:
“Now, with WorkfloPlus, we’re able to put all our findings into one format, with pictures and descriptions of each image of the failures, in one file which can be shared with our customers. Rather than an email with descriptions of the failures within, and sending random pictures, everything is condensed within this file for your product that helps the customer get a bigger picture and a better understanding of what all our team’s findings entail. It’s a simplified process that has helped all aspects here within Centranz, for us to communicate properly and professionally with our customers on a much higher level compared to the way we were doing things.”
Maintaining excellence
The connected workforce is not just a futuristic concept but a practical and necessary evolution in today’s industrial environment.
And, when it comes to maintenance tasks in particular, digital transformation provides the tools and technologies needed to enhance performance, leading to greater efficiency, reduced downtime, and cost savings through the creation of a better equipped, more informed and highly connected team.
