Identification of problems in maintenance operations and comparison with manufacturing operations

Abstract

Purpose In the present context of globalization, maintenance of production systems is very important. A lot of organizations are facing many problems in maintenance management. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to identify the main problems in maintenance operations and compare these problems with those in manufacturing operations as found in the literature for effective maintenance. Design/methodology/approach To identify the main problems in maintenance operations and to compare them with those in manufacturing operations, a large amount of published literature was studied. The paper systematically categorizes the published literature and then analyzes and reviews it theoretically. Findings Lack of top management support, lack of measurement of overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), lack of strategic planning and implementation and many more problems are biggest problems in the maintenance operations as well as manufacturing operations. These have emerged as top problems in the implementation of effective maintenance strategies in industries. Research limitations/implications From the findings, the authors can conclude that for good maintenance, top management is supposed to be supportive in taking different initiatives. Industrial organizations should focus on improving overall performance of machines identified as OEE rather than only productivity of machines. This paper will be extremely useful for the researchers, maintenance professionals and others concerned with maintenance to understand the significance of maintenance problems in industries. Originality/value These findings will be highly useful for professionals from the manufacturing sector in implementing effective maintenance strategy in the maintenance management system.