A computerised model to enhance the cost‐effectiveness of production and maintenance dynamic decisions

Abstract

PurposeTo develop and test a model and software‐based support system for better understanding of the interactions between man‐machine‐maintenance‐economy (MMME), and enable cost‐effective decisions.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on published knowledge and experience within maintenance, maintenance organization and production, and a case study.FindingsDevelopment of a model describing interactions between man‐machine‐maintenance‐economy interactions and MMME software module. MMME test shows its ability to identify, quantify, assess and follow up losses in production time which is necessary when planning effective maintenance actions.Research limitations/implicationsIn the paper the focus is to quantify production time losses in order to identify the root causes of the problem. The case study is performed at a manufacturing plant for truck engines.Practical implicationsA systematic approach of how to quantify and evaluate losses in production time in order to identify problems and problem areas within the production. This approach is discussed and motivated with the aim of achieving more cost‐effective decisions in maintenance.Originality/valueThe model and software application developed enables a structured way of analyzing production time losses in order to find cost‐effective solutions to the problems. The model is very flexible enabling it to be customized for a wide spectrum of branches.